Advances in food and agriculture science
are designed to bring healthier conditions
and better production value
for crops and farm animals
and result in new—or better
food on our tables.
Agricultural and food science technicians
help scientists in these fields
to conduct research, run lab tests,
and keep records.
Their specific duties differ:
Agricultural technicians study ways
to increase the productivity
of crops and animals.
They operate laboratory equipment
and collect crop or animal samples
to test them for disease
or to confirm scientific experiments.
They also perform agricultural labor
with added recordkeeping duties.
Food science technicians
investigate new processing techniques.
They inspect foodstuffs,
chemicals, and additives,
compile and analyze test results,
and prepare presentations
to share research findings.
Agricultural and food science technicians
work in laboratories, processing plants,
farms and ranches, greenhouses, and offices.
Workers may be exposed to loud noise,
extreme temperatures,
and odors from chemicals or animals.
They are often physically active
throughout the day.
Agricultural and food science technicians
typically work standard full-time schedules.
Some positions require travel.
Agricultural and food science technicians
typically need an associate’s degree in biology,
chemistry, crop or animal science,
or a related field.
However, requirements may vary
from a high school diploma
and related work experience
to a bachelor’s degree.