Precision Agriculture Specialist

Overview

Precision agriculture specialists provide support and technical assistance to growers who are using precision technologies on their farms.


 

What responsibilities will I have?

  • Implement actual work of grid and contour differential global positioning systems for soil sampling, developing information maps, recommendation maps
  • Implement variable rate application of lime and nutrients
  • Implement practical application of record keeping and nutrient management plans
  • Assist in marketing precision agriculture program to producers
  • Network with local government and extension leaders concerning Precision Ag practices
  • Participate in meetings within sales area which offer an opportunity for sales and improved public relations as approved by supervisor
  • Provides technical service and recommendations to patrons and prospects based on proficient knowledge of fertilization calculation and other formulations
  • Assist customers in installing and calibrating their precision equipment
  • Provides training for other retail employees in precision ag
  • Assists in handling customer concerns and complaints
  • Interpret satellite remote sensing to identify and map field variability
  • Prepare variable rate fertility, fungicide, and seeding maps for customers
  • Prepare variable rate and flat rate fertility, fungicide, and seeding recommendations
  • Using GPS and soil test zones, locate fields by legal land description and perform soil sampling duties in field
  • Provide agronomic services in field using the scouting apps or software, including pre-seed, post-seed, fungicide, pre-harvest, post-harvest recommendations
  • Understand and participate in the company or farmer’s business plan and strategies

 

What education and training is required?

A bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering, agronomy, or agricultural business. Having your certified crop adviser certification may also be required.

To pursue a career as a precision agriculture specialist:

The following high school courses are recommended:  agricultural education, a focus on sciences such as chemistry and biology, and mathematics.   

Where can I work?

There is the opportunity to work for precision equipment / software providers, ag retailers, cooperatives, or even extension.

Future Job Market/Outlook

The job outlook for a precision agriculture specialist will be great over the next five years.