Science & Mathematics Division

Careers

AGRICULTURAL ENGINEER

Agricultural Engineers design and develop methods to improve the production, processing, and distribution of farm products.

Work Activities:

• Design and direct the manufacture or construction of equipment, structures, or facilities used to till and fertilize the soil, control plant and animal diseases, and harvest and move crops
• Develop standards for manufacture and construction of farm buildings and related structures
• Make detailed studies, conduct experiments, run tests on production processes and products
• Plan and direct construction of rural electrical power, irrigation, drainage, and flood control
• Manage food production and processing systems

Skills and Aptitudes:

• Understand and employ engineering principles and methods, and agricultural sciences
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Work independently and as part of a team
• Good mathematical abilities
• Visualize objects from pictures and descriptions
• See slight differences in objects and drawings
• Work with people and give directions

Work Settings and Employers:

• Laboratories and offices
• Outdoor field sites
• Agricultural and food processing equipment manufacturing firms
• Feed and seed companies
• Research firms

Related Occupations:

• Aerospace Engineers
• Electrical Engineers
• Civil Engineers
• Agricultural Scientists
• Engineering Technicians
• Earth Scientists
• Biomedical Engineers
• Nuclear Engineers
• Engineers
• Chemical Engineers
• Mechanical Engineers

Hiring Practices:

• Bachelor's degree and advanced degrees are necessary for research and university teaching positions
• Persons with apprenticeship, internship, Tech Prep, or cooperative learning experience may be the most competitive
• Engineers must be licensed to practice professional engineering in Georgia

Wages:

• Average entry wage is approximately $31,320 per year in Georgia

Program of Study at Darton College to Pursue Career