Agricultural Technicians

SOC code 19-4012 · O*NET-SOC 19-4012.00 · Medium preparation needed · Science and engineering

Agricultural Technicians pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$49,630

a year

Hourly

$23.86

per hour

10th$35,980Median$49,63090th$76,480

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$53,840

$25.89 per hour

Middle 50%

$40,950 – $63,630

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$35,980 – $76,480

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

15,130

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

10th percentile: $35,980; $17.30/hr
25th percentile: $40,950; $19.69/hr
Median percentile: $49,630; $23.86/hr
75th percentile: $63,630; $30.59/hr
90th percentile: $76,480; $36.77/hr

What does an agricultural technician do?

Work with agricultural scientists in plant, fiber, and animal research, or assist with animal breeding and nutrition. Set up or maintain laboratory equipment and collect samples from crops or animals. Prepare specimens or record data to assist scientists in biology or related life science experiments. Conduct tests and experiments to improve yield and quality of crops or to increase the resistance of plants and animals to disease or insects.

The tasks that matter most day to day

Prepare land for cultivated crops, orchards, or vineyards by plowing, discing, leveling, or contouring.
Operate farm machinery, including tractors, plows, mowers, combines, balers, sprayers, earthmoving equipment, or trucks.
Record data pertaining to experimentation, research, or animal care.
Maintain or repair agricultural facilities, equipment, or tools to ensure operational readiness, safety, and cleanliness.
Conduct studies of nitrogen or alternative fertilizer application methods, quantities, or timing to ensure satisfaction of crop needs and minimization of leaching, runoff, or denitrification.
Prepare laboratory samples for analysis, following proper protocols to ensure that they will be stored, prepared, and disposed of efficiently and effectively.
Measure or weigh ingredients used in laboratory testing.
Perform crop production duties, such as tilling, hoeing, pruning, weeding, or harvesting crops.

How to become an agricultural technician

Most people in this role hold high school diploma or the equivalent (such as a ged) — 41% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.

Preparation level: zone 3 — Medium preparation needed

Education: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Experience: Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Training: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

See all zone 3 occupations →

Education reported by people doing this job

High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)41%
Bachelor's Degree18%
Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree13%
Doctoral Degree7%

Common questions

How much does an agricultural technician earn?

The national median is $49,630 a year. The full range runs from $35,980 at the 10th percentile to $76,480 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become an agricultural technician without a degree?

Yes — this occupation sits in preparation zone 3, meaning the typical entry route is most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. A four-year degree is not the standard requirement, though licensing or certification may still apply.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Reading Comprehension3.4/5
Active Listening3.3/5
Critical Thinking3.3/5
Writing3.1/5
Active Learning3.1/5
Monitoring3.1/5
Speaking3.0/5

Knowledge areas

Food Production3.6/5
Biology3.5/5
Chemistry3.4/5
Mechanical3.4/5
Mathematics3.1/5
Administration and Management3.0/5
English Language3.0/5
Education and Training2.9/5

Transferable strengths: Judgment and Decision Making, Coordination, Instructing.