Precision Agriculture Technicians
Precision agriculture technicians use GPS, GIS, and computer technology to optimize farming operations. They analyze spatial data to guide decisions on pesticide application, irrigation, and pest management across agricultural fields. This work takes place primarily in rural areas, combining fieldwork with office-based data analysis.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against precision agriculture technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves scouting fields to identify pest problems, collecting location-specific data with GPS equipment, and creating or analyzing digital maps in the office. Technicians may program variable-rate application systems to adjust pesticide or water amounts by location. They troubleshoot technology issues, prepare reports on field conditions, and communicate findings to farm managers or agricultural specialists.
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.
You're drawn to this work if you enjoy solving practical problems with technology and investigating how things work. People who do well here combine hands-on comfort with farm equipment and outdoor fieldwork with the ability to learn mapping software and data analysis tools.
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
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.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against precision agriculture technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-4012.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.