Farmers, Ranchers, and Agricultural Managers
O*NET-SOC: 11-9013.00
Plans, directs, and coordinates the management, production, and marketing of crops, livestock, and other agricultural products, making operational and financial decisions for farms, ranches, and agricultural businesses.
About this Role
Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural managers oversee the day-to-day operations of farms, ranches, greenhouses, nurseries, or other agricultural businesses, making decisions that affect crops, animals, equipment, and finances. They plan what to plant or raise each season, decide when to seed, fertilize, irrigate, or move livestock, and schedule harvests to match market demand and weather conditions. They also supervise workers, negotiate for equipment rentals or custom services, and track expenses, yields, and sales to keep the operation profitable. In addition to physical work like operating tractors or tending to animals, they regularly use field-mapping software, weather forecasts, and record-keeping tools to monitor soil conditions, pest pressure, and irrigation needs. This role suits people who enjoy working outdoors, solving practical problems, and managing multiple tasks at once, often with unpredictable conditions such as storms or price swings. The work is rewarding when a crop yields well, animals stay healthy, or a new practice improves efficiency, but it can be stressful due to weather risks, fluctuating markets, long hours, and the pressure to keep land and equipment running year-round.
A Day in the Life
6:00 AM
Morning round of animals or fields
Check livestock for signs of illness, feed them, ensure water is flowing, or inspect crop fields for pests, weeds, and irrigation performance.
7:30 AM
Review weather and market reports
Look at forecasts, commodity prices, and delivery schedules to decide whether to plant, harvest, or hold on a given day.
8:30 AM
Oversee planting or field work
Coordinate a crew or operating a tractor to plant seeds, apply fertilizer, or mow fields, adjusting depth or spacing based on soil conditions.
11:30 AM
Lunch and quick equipment check
Eat while checking fuel levels, tire pressure, and any needed repairs on tractors, sprayers, or irrigation systems before the afternoon shift.
1:00 PM
Harvest or animal care tasks
Supervise or participate in harvesting crops, moving animals between pastures, or handling vet visits and vaccinations as needed.
3:30 PM
Record-keeping and planning
Update logs for yields, expenses, and labor, enter data into farm management software, and plan next week’s planting or maintenance schedule.
5:00 PM
Evening animal or field check
Walk through barns or fields again to ensure everything is secure for the night, close gates, and confirm that automated systems are running properly.
6:30 PM
Review and adjust plans for tomorrow
Adjust tomorrow’s work list based on today’s progress, weather updates, and any unexpected issues such as equipment breakdowns or animal health concerns.
Tools & Technologies
Spreadsheets
- Microsoft Excel
Office Suites
- Microsoft Office
Databases & Data Tools
- Microsoft Access
- Ag Connections Land.db
- Ag Leader Technology SMS Advanced
- AgTerra Technologies AgTrac
- Alua Software Paddock Pro
ERP Systems
- SAP
- Accutech Systems Corporation AccuFarm-MGR
- Advanced Veterinary Services Ranch Vision
- Agevo Farm Manager
- AgriSoft/CMC AgriSoft/ERP
Graphics & Design
- Adobe Photoshop
Cloud Collaboration
- Confluence
Salary Details
Salary Distribution
Most professionals earn between $68K and $115K
| Percentile | Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th | $52K |
| 25th | $68K |
| 50th (Median) | $88K |
| 75th | $115K |
| 90th | $157K |
Certifications, Training & Memberships
Essential
Pesticide Applicator Certification
State Department of Agriculture
Required to purchase and apply restricted-use pesticides, covering safety, environmental impact, and proper application techniques.
Recommended
Certified Crop Adviser (CCA)
American Society of Agronomy
Demonstrates expertise in crop management, soil and water, and pest management, helping farmers make informed decisions about planting and inputs.
Helpful
Beginning Farmer Training Program
USDA Cooperative Extension Service
Covers fundamentals of land access, business planning, risk management, and sustainable practices for new farmers and ranchers.
Sustainable Agriculture Certificate
Land-grant universities
Teaches soil conservation, crop rotation, integrated pest management, and water-saving strategies to improve long-term farm resilience.
Farm Business Management Program
University extension programs
Focuses on record-keeping, budgeting, and financial analysis tailored to farm and ranch operations.
Professional Memberships
National Farmers Union Membership
National Farmers Union
Provides advocacy, education, and networking for farmers and ranchers on issues such as fair pricing, trade, and local food systems.
Work Environment
- Remote Work
- Mostly On-site
- Work Setting
- Primarily outdoor / field work
- Physical Activity
- Physically active — significant time on your feet
- Social Interaction
- Highly collaborative — frequent team interaction
- Schedule
- Extended hours common
Your Skills & Attributes
Skills & Competencies Matches (43)
- Complex Problem SolvingGood Match
- MathematicsModerate Match
- InstallationPartial Match
- Oral ComprehensionGood Match
- Oral ExpressionGood Match
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Farmers, Ranchers, and Agricultural Managers a good career?
Farmers, Ranchers, and Agricultural Managers can be a rewarding career choice. Based on current data, the median salary is $88K and job outlook is stable (-1% projected growth). Whether it's a good fit depends on your skills, interests, and values — take our quiz to find out how well you match.
What degree do you need to become a Farmers, Ranchers, and Agricultural Managers?
The typical education requirement for a Farmers, Ranchers, and Agricultural Managers is a High School Diploma. However, requirements can vary by employer and specialization. Some professionals enter the field with alternative credentials or relevant work experience.
How long does it take to become a Farmers, Ranchers, and Agricultural Managers?
Becoming a Farmers, Ranchers, and Agricultural Managers typically requires about 4 years of high school education. Additional time may be needed for certifications, internships, or on-the-job training depending on the specific role and employer requirements.
What is the work-life balance like for a Farmers, Ranchers, and Agricultural Managers?
The work-life balance for a Farmers, Ranchers, and Agricultural Managers is demanding, often requiring long hours, irregular schedules, or high-pressure situations. Individual experiences vary based on employer, specialization, seniority level, and geographic location.
What is the job outlook for Farmers, Ranchers, and Agricultural Managers?
The job outlook for Farmers, Ranchers, and Agricultural Managers is stable. Employment is projected to decline by 1% over the coming decade. Labor market conditions can vary by region and specialization.
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