Agricultural Field Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of advanced technology, the focus on agricultural field engineers has never been more crucial.

As modern farming evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can design, implement, and maintain our agricultural infrastructure grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an agricultural field engineer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the intricacies of agricultural engineering,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable agricultural field engineer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Agricultural Field Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Agricultural Field Engineers have a pivotal role in the farming industry as they apply their knowledge of engineering technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water conservation, and processing of agricultural products.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating and installing agricultural machinery and equipment
• Working with GPS systems, sensors, drones and other advanced technology to assess and improve crop yield
• Developing and implementing efficient irrigation, drainage, and water management systems
• Addressing environmental issues related to farming, such as soil erosion and water quality
• Providing technical support and training to farmers and farm workers regarding the use and maintenance of their equipment
• Conducting research to come up with innovative farming techniques
• Designing and testing agricultural infrastructure and integrated systems
• Documenting all findings and data from field tests and experiments for future reference
• Ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations regarding machinery, facilities, and farming practices

 

Agricultural Field Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Agricultural Field Engineer to assist with the design, development and maintenance of farming equipment and machinery.

The responsibilities of an Agricultural Field Engineer include conducting tests and inspections, providing technical support to farmers and agricultural businesses, and developing innovative farming solutions.

Our ideal candidate is someone with a strong understanding of agricultural science, engineering principles and possesses excellent problem-solving skills.

Ultimately, the role of the Agricultural Field Engineer is to contribute to the advancement and sustainability of the agricultural industry through the application of engineering principles.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluating and maintaining farming equipment and machinery
• Conducting field tests and inspections of agricultural systems and equipment
• Designing, developing, and implementing innovative farming solutions
• Providing technical support and training to farmers and agricultural businesses
• Investigating and solving problems related to equipment or farming practices
• Collaborating with agricultural scientists to develop and test new technologies
• Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations
• Preparing and presenting technical reports and product specifications
• Keeping abreast of advancements in agricultural technology

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Agricultural Engineer or similar role
• Knowledge of agricultural science and farming practices
• Experience with CAD software and other engineering tools
• Ability to analyze complex agricultural systems
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Good communication and presentation skills
• BSc degree in Agricultural Engineering or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Agricultural Field Engineer
• Work Environment: Outdoor field work, with some office work. Travel may be required for site visits and client consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Agricultural Engineer or Agricultural Project Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Agricultural Field Engineer Do?

Agricultural Field Engineers are usually employed by agricultural technology companies, farms, or consulting firms.

They can also work as independent consultants providing services to various agricultural operations.

Their primary role is to design, develop, and implement machinery and equipment used in agricultural operations.

This includes everything from tractors and harvesting machines to irrigation systems and greenhouse technologies.

They work closely with farmers and agricultural scientists to understand the specific needs and challenges of different agricultural operations, and use this information to design or modify equipment and systems that can improve efficiency, reduce costs, or increase yields.

Their job also involves conducting tests and inspections to ensure that the machinery and equipment they design are safe, reliable, and effective.

They may also be responsible for troubleshooting and repairing any mechanical issues that arise.

Furthermore, they stay updated on the latest advancements in agricultural technology and incorporate them into their designs and strategies.

This could involve automation technologies, precision farming techniques, or environmentally sustainable practices.

In addition, they often provide training and technical support to farmers and other end-users on how to use and maintain the equipment and technologies they develop.

Their role is critical in supporting the agricultural industry’s progress and helping it adapt to emerging challenges such as climate change, population growth, and changing consumer preferences.

 

Agricultural Field Engineer Qualifications and Skills

Agricultural Field Engineers need a range of technical expertise, practical skills and industry knowledge to manage and optimize agricultural processes, such as:

• Practical understanding of agricultural machinery and equipment to ensure optimal operation and maintenance.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly identify and rectify issues with machinery and other agricultural systems.
• Extensive knowledge of farming operations and processes, as well as the ability to apply engineering principles to these.
• Project management skills to oversee installation and maintenance of agricultural systems, ensuring deadlines and budgets are met.
• Communication skills to liaise effectively with farmers, contractors, and other stakeholders, explaining complex technical concepts in an understandable manner.
• Strong analytical skills to assess the effectiveness of agricultural systems and propose improvements.
• Knowledge and understanding of relevant laws and regulations governing the agricultural industry.
• Physical stamina to handle the demands of working in outdoor environments and operating heavy machinery.

 

Agricultural Field Engineer Experience Requirements

Entry-level Agricultural Field Engineers may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an internship or part-time role in agricultural engineering or related fields.

These professionals can also gain practical experience in roles such as Farm Manager, Irrigation Specialist, or other agricultural-related roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level Agricultural Field Engineer roles.

They typically have experience in designing, testing, and improving agricultural machinery, equipment, and processes.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have extensive knowledge about the latest agricultural technologies and practices.

They may have some leadership experience in their background, perhaps as a Project Manager or Team Leader.

At this level, they are usually responsible for overseeing the design and implementation of agricultural engineering projects.

Additionally, experienced Agricultural Field Engineers may have specialized knowledge in areas such as soil and water conservation, crop production, or farm waste management.

As such, they may be ready for a senior or managerial position, overseeing large-scale agricultural projects or leading teams.

 

Agricultural Field Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Agricultural Field Engineers typically require a bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field.

In the course of their studies, they should gain a comprehensive understanding of engineering principles and their application in agriculture, including areas like farming machinery, irrigation systems, and crop processing technology.

Additionally, they need a firm grounding in biological sciences as their work often involves understanding the biological and environmental aspects of farming.

Knowledge in subjects such as agronomy, animal science, and environmental science can be beneficial.

Certain positions may demand Agricultural Field Engineers with a master’s degree in a specialized area of agricultural or environmental engineering.

This could be particularly relevant for roles that involve research, design, and development of new agricultural technologies.

Obtaining a Professional Engineer (PE) license may also be required for some positions, particularly those involving public projects.

This generally requires a degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program, relevant work experience, and passing scores on two exams.

While not always required, certifications in areas such as precision agriculture, soil and water conservation, and farm power machinery can showcase an engineer’s expertise and commitment to ongoing learning.

Moreover, strong problem-solving skills, good communication skills, and the ability to work in a team are essential soft skills for an Agricultural Field Engineer.

 

Agricultural Field Engineer Salary Expectations

An Agricultural Field Engineer can expect to earn an average salary of $64,000 (USD) per year.

However, the exact salary can vary depending on factors such as years of experience, level of education, specific skills, and the geographical location of the job.

 

Agricultural Field Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Agricultural Field Engineer need?

An Agricultural Field Engineer requires a strong background in engineering principles and their application in agriculture.

They should have good knowledge of modern farming practices, agricultural machinery, irrigation systems, and crop management.

Soft skills like problem-solving, communication, and the ability to work under various weather conditions are also crucial.

 

Do Agricultural Field Engineers require a specific degree?

Yes, Agricultural Field Engineers require a degree in agricultural engineering or a related field such as mechanical engineering or environmental science.

Some roles may require a master’s degree or further specialization in a specific area of agricultural engineering.

 

What should you look for in an Agricultural Field Engineer’s resume?

Look for a degree in a relevant field and any specialized certifications.

Experience in agricultural settings, handling agricultural machinery, irrigation systems, and designing farm infrastructure can be beneficial.

Familiarity with modern farming technologies, such as GPS, remote sensing, and precision farming tools, is also a plus.

Lastly, look for soft skills like problem-solving, project management, and communication.

 

What qualities make a good Agricultural Field Engineer?

A good Agricultural Field Engineer is one who is not just technically sound but also understands the practical challenges of farming.

They should be innovative, adaptable, and capable of working under varied field conditions.

Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication skills, and a knack for designing and implementing efficient systems are also key qualities.

 

Is it challenging to hire Agricultural Field Engineers?

Hiring Agricultural Field Engineers can be challenging due to the specific technical skills and practical experience required for the job.

The role often requires a combination of office and field work, which may not appeal to all candidates.

Employers need to offer competitive salaries and ensure a safe and supportive work environment to attract the best talent.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unearthed the real-world responsibilities and challenges of an agricultural field engineer.

And guess what?

It’s not just about the technical aspect.

It’s about shaping the future of farming, one cultivated field at a time.

Equipped with our comprehensive agricultural field engineer job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why stop at the edge of the field?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating accurate job listings or refining your resume to precision.

Remember:

Every cultivated field is a part of the global food supply.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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