Agricultural Technicians
Agricultural technicians assist scientists with plant, fiber, and animal research by setting up laboratory equipment, collecting samples, and preparing specimens. They work in research facilities, farms, and universities, conducting tests and recording data to support agricultural experiments and breeding programs.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against agricultural technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves collecting tissue samples from crops or animals, maintaining lab equipment like incubators and microscopes, and preparing specimens for analysis. Technicians record observations, run diagnostic tests, and organize data for scientists. Work alternates between fieldwork—visiting farms or greenhouses to gather samples—and lab time spent processing materials and documenting results.
Who this work suits
Holland code RIC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
This career suits people drawn to hands-on investigation and problem-solving in biological systems. If you enjoy working methodically with equipment, observing natural processes, and supporting scientific discovery rather than leading it, agricultural technician work aligns well with your interests.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold an associate degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Openings right now
- Agricultural Science Research Technician · Agricultural Research Service · Houma, Louisiana · $50460–$80243
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $41,600 | $64,070 | $75,990 | — |
| Wyoming | $61,710 | $63,120 | $68,830 | 30 |
| Arizona | $51,900 | $62,990 | $75,950 | — |
| California | $46,710 | $60,320 | $63,770 | 2,420 |
| Kentucky | $43,660 | $59,860 | $72,510 | 210 |
| Minnesota | $47,940 | $57,310 | $82,300 | 530 |
| New Jersey | $45,500 | $54,370 | $80,170 | — |
| Missouri | $40,840 | $54,060 | $64,890 | 420 |
| Delaware | $39,760 | $52,510 | $66,730 | — |
| North Carolina | $41,350 | $51,470 | $54,760 | 550 |
| Texas | $41,190 | $50,270 | $75,460 | 120 |
| Maryland | $48,980 | $49,680 | $64,920 | 200 |
All 39 states
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against agricultural technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-4012.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.