The best paying jobs in farming/seeds/mill include agriculture engineer, agricultural scientists, seed technologists and food technologists. The job market is constantly changing, especially in the agricultural sector. Farmers, seed specialists, and millers are in high demand as consumers become more aware of the need for plant-based protein. This ultimately results in lucrative salaries for these professionals.
What Do Farming/Seeds/Mill Pay?
The average annual salary for farming/seeds/mill professionals is $49,857. It is worth noting that this is not a fixed amount. Salary in this industry usually varies based on the level of expertise, region, and organization. Most professionals in the farming/seeds/mill industry earn between $30,000 to $80,000 annually.
For example, an experienced position requiring greater technical skills will command a higher annual wage. Thus, it is not surprising that an Agricultural engineer earns around $77,110 whereas an entry-level role such as farmworker earns around $34,946.
15 Highest Paying Farming/Seeds/Mill Jobs with Good Salaries
Due to the high demand for organic produce, it is not surprising that the farming/seeds/mill industry is quite a lucrative one. Workers in this sector enjoy juicy compensation for the hard work put into the industry.
15 of the highest paying jobs in farming/seeds/mill:
Agricultural engineers are in charge of creating and developing new farming and food production technologies and systems. They may also be involved in the design and construction of structures and buildings used in agricultural and food production.
A bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering or a similar discipline is required to become an agricultural engineer. These professionals possess extensive knowledge of agricultural machinery and equipment. They are also excellent problem solvers.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 2% increase in job growth for agricultural engineers. It will provide 2,700 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
2. Agricultural Scientists
Average Annual Salary: $76,940
Agricultural scientists are in charge of conducting agricultural and food-related research and experimentation. They could research plant and animal genetics, soil conservation, and pest control.
To become an agricultural scientist, you must first obtain a bachelor’s degree in agriculture or a related discipline. In reality, most employers only hire candidates with master’s degrees or a Doctorate in a related discipline and extensive years of experience. These professionals understand plant and animal biology with vast knowledge of agricultural methods and techniques.
The job outlook for agricultural scientists is positive, with a growth rate of 6% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 45,400 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
3. Agricultural Manager
Average Annual Salary: $69,620
Agricultural managers are in charge of overseeing agricultural and livestock output on a farm. They may also be in charge of the farm’s financial aspects, such as budgeting, marketing, and sales.
A bachelor’s degree in agriculture or a similar discipline is usually required for this career path. Agricultural managers must also have garnered years of industry experience. It follows that they are expected to have leadership and management skills.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 6% increase in job growth for agricultural managers. It will provide 1,028,700 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
4. Agricultural Sales Representative
Average Annual Salary: $65,020
Farmers and other clientele are sold agricultural supplies and equipment by agricultural sales reps. A certain company or work may employ them as independent contractors.
A bachelor’s degree in agriculture or a related discipline, as well as sales experience, are often required to become an agricultural sales representative. Generally, sales job requires excellent sales and marketing skills, and that of the agricultural sales representative is no different.
The job outlook for agricultural sales representatives is positive, with a growth rate of 3% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 1,552,100 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
Seed technologists are in charge of creating and testing new seed kinds as well as refining current ones. They may also be involved in the preparation and delivery of seeds to farmers.
To work as a seed technologist, you will normally require a bachelor’s degree in agriculture or a related discipline. You might also want to earn a master’s or Ph.D. if you want to land a more competitive role. These professions require you to have expansive Knowledge of plant biology and genetics.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 3% increase in job growth for seed technologists. It will provide 24,500 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
6. Food Technologist
Average Annual Salary: $60,00
Food technologists examine, research, and analyze the physical, biological, and chemical components of foods. These professionals design and devise ways for corporations to employ in the process of manufacturing, packing, and distributing food.
Food technologists usually have qualifications in nutrition, food science, dietetics, or a related science-based field. Some employers might require job seekers to provide a First Aid Certificate or undergo a National Police Check and medical exam. These professionals usually acquire the ability to develop and test new food products in the course of their careers.
The job outlook for food technologists is positive, with a growth rate of 6% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 23,400 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
7. Crops Consultant
Average Annual Salary: $53,579
Another well-paying position in farming/seeds/mill is a crop consultant. They are in charge of crop watering, fertilizing, planting, and watering. Crop consultants typically work with farmers to determine the best methods for improving soil fertility, controlling weeds, and dealing with pests.
Crop consultants with bachelor’s degrees in agronomy, biology, or agriculture are often hired by most farming/seeds/mill organizations. It is necessary to have expansive agricultural skills to work as a crop consultant.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 6% increase in job growth for crop consultants. It will provide 45,400 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
8. Millwright
Average Annual Salary: $53,480
Millwrights are experienced craftsmen who install, repair, and maintain milling machinery and equipment. They may also be responsible for the installation of new equipment as well as the modification of current equipment.
Typically, you will need to complete an apprenticeship program or vocational school to become a millwright. Due to the technical nature of this job, candidates are required to possess expansive technical skills.
The job outlook for millwrights is positive, with a growth rate of 6% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 23,400 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
9. Water Treatment Specialist
Average Annual Salary: $53,000
These specialists do water purification and treatment duties. These professionals assist in the supervision of filtration equipment and the installation of water plants in various locations. They also assist in the management of water storage and distribution systems to ensure the efficacy and safety of drinking clean water.
Water treatment specialists usually have bachelor’s degrees in business, criminal justice, or general studies. These experts have deep knowledge of water treatment methods and technologies. They are also analytical and problem solvers.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts an 8% increase in job growth for water treatment specialists. It will provide 32,200 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
Food scientist gathers information about a product, certifies it as safe, and carefully determines how long you can keep your meal. Food scientists and other specialists work together to ensure the safety of agricultural food grown in this manner.
Food scientists usually hold a bachelor’s degree in food science/technology, food/chemical engineering, biochemistry, nutrition, microbiology, or chemistry. They have a wide knowledge of food chemistry and microbiology and are conversant with food safety and regulations.
The job outlook for food scientists is positive, with a growth rate of 6% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 23,400 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
11. Seed Sales Manager
Average Annual Salary: $48,775
Seed sales managers are in charge of overseeing direct sales efforts involving agricultural dealers and growers. In the career, the manager must collaborate with farmers to achieve profit targets and sell crops such as soybeans, wheat, corn, and so on.
Seed sales managers usually hold bachelor’s degrees in related fields, although a master’s degree makes them more competitive. Employers are more inclined to hire candidates with practical experience and skills. Seed sales managers have excellent sales and communication skills, in addition to knowledge of agricultural practices.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 5% increase in job growth for seed sales managers. It will provide 32,200 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
12. Grain Elevator Operator
Average Annual Salary: $47,840
Grain elevator operators are in charge of loading and unloading grain from trucks, railroads, and ships, as well as storing and transporting it. They may also be in charge of the machinery employed in these duties.
Most grain elevator operators hold at least a high school diploma or its equivalent. Most farming/seeds/mill companies usually offer on-the-job training to new hires.
The job outlook for grain elevator operators is positive, with a growth rate of 6% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 63,000 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
13. Agricultural Inspector
Average Annual Salary: $45,180
Agricultural inspectors ensure that agricultural goods fulfill safety and quality standards. They may check farms, processing factories, and other facilities to ensure that regulations and laws are followed.
A bachelor’s degree in agriculture or a related discipline, as well as applicable certification or license, is often required to become an agricultural inspector. Most employers are usually more attracted to candidates who have years of practical experience.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 3% increase in job growth for agricultural inspectors. It will provide 12,900 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
14. Grain and Oilseed Mill Operators
Average Annual Salary: $40,380
Grain and oilseed mill operators are in charge of the machinery that transforms grains and oilseeds into goods such as flour, meal, and oil. They may also be in charge of monitoring the quality of the products being produced and making any adjustments to the machinery.
A high school diploma or equivalent, as well as on-the-job training, are normally required to become a grain and oilseed mill operator. You can also take various related certification courses to land more juicy positions in this career path.
The job outlook for grain and oilseed mill operators is positive, with a growth rate of 2% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 936,500 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
Agricultural technicians work alongside agricultural scientists and other professionals to conduct research and testing. They may also be involved in equipment and facility maintenance, as well as data collection and analysis.
An associate’s degree in agriculture or a related discipline, as well as appropriate experience, is often required to become an agricultural technician. Knowledge of agricultural practices and the ability to collect and analyze data is required in this field.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 6% increase in job growth for agricultural technicians. It will provide 31,700 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
Highest Paying Entry-Level Farming/Seeds/Mill Jobs with Good Salaries
Entry-level work in the farming/seeds/mill industries pays well and provides prospects for promotion.
Here are the top 5 high paying entry-level jobs in the farming/seeds/mill industry:
Milling process engineers are in charge of creating and improving grain and other material milling processes. They also oversee equipment maintenance and repairs and monitor production efficiency. They might also be called to repair technical issues if the needs arise.
Milling process engineers usually hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Thus, it is possible to land this position fresh out of college. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, plus an understanding of engineering principles, are required in this career path.
The job outlook for milling process engineers is positive, with a growth rate of 4% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 314,400 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
2. Seed Sales Representative
Average Annual Salary: $ $40,000
Seed sales reps market and sell seed products to farmers and other clients. These professionals identify potential customers, promote seed products and develop sales strategies.
You need at least a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business or an agricultural major to pursue this career path. Seed sales reps have strong sales, good communication skills, and knowledge of agricultural practices.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 5% increase in job growth for seed sales reps. It will provide 98,700 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
3. Precision Agriculture Technician
Average Annual Salary: $35,000
Precision agriculture technicians employ technology to assist farmers in optimizing crop yields and reducing waste. They also install and maintain precision agriculture equipment.
Precision agriculture technicians hold a bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Business, or a related field required. Knowledge of agricultural practices and technology, technical skills, and the ability to collect and analyze data is necessary.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 6% increase in job growth for precision agriculture technicians. It will provide 31,700 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031
4. Farmworker
Average Annual Salary: $34,946
Farm workers perform tasks such as planting, harvesting, weeding, and maintaining crops. Depending on how large the farm is, they might operate and maintain farm machinery and equipment. They are usually required to follow food safety and security procedures.
Without prior training, it is possible to work as a farm worker. Those who want to advance in their careers, however, will need a diploma or degree in plant sciences or a related field.
The job outlook for farm workers is positive, with a growth rate of 6% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 331,000 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 20317.
Horticulturists are in charge of caring for plants, trees, and fruit development. These professionals also put in place measures to keep insects and other pests away from plants and trees. Horticulturists are in charge of caring for plants, trees, and fruit development.
Most horticulturists hold an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in landscape design, forestry, agriculture, or a combination of the two. Horticulturists must have a thorough understanding of plant growth in order to perform their duties properly.
The job outlook for horticulturists is positive, with a growth rate of 6% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 6,800 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
How to Get a High Paying Job in Farming/Seeds/Mill?
6 practical steps to land a high paying job in farming/seeds/mill:
1. Pursue Education and Training
Education and training are essential for many high-paying positions in the farming/seed/mill industry. Consider studying agricultural science, engineering, or business, or look for training programs in crop management, seed production, or milling operations.
2. Acquire Experience
In the farming/seeds/mill industry, experience is typically highly prized. Search for internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level work where you can gain experience. This will assist you with developing the skills and information required for success in more advanced roles.
3. Create a Network
Networking is essential in any industry, including farming/seeds/mill. Attend industry events, join professional groups, and look for mentorship opportunities to network and learn about job options and career pathways.
4. Keep up with Industry Trends
The farming/seeds/mill industry is always changing, so it’s critical to stay current on the latest trends and technologies. To stay educated and exhibit your competence to future employers, read industry journals, attend conferences and seminars, and engage in online forums.
5. Consider Specialization
Specializing in a specialized industry, such as the farming/seeds/mill industry, can help you gain highly valued skills and expertise. This will eventually lead to high-paying career possibilities.
6. Seek Out High Demand Areas
Certain industries, such as farming/seeds/mill, usually have a higher need for qualified individuals, which can lead to more high-paying job prospects. Search for work opportunities in sectors such as precision agriculture, sustainable farming, or high-tech seed production.
Where to Find the Best Paying Jobs in Farming/Seeds/Mill?
It’s very critical to research farming/seeds/mill jobs that tallies with your skills, interests, and regional choices. You can boost your chances of finding high-paying by taking several proactive steps.
5 places to land high paying jobs in the farming/seeds/mill industry:
1. Major farming/seeds/mill companies
Several of the top agricultural corporations, such as Monsanto, Syngenta, and Cargill, provide high-paying jobs. These companies provide high paying jobs in areas like research and development, engineering, and management.
2. Government agencies
Various government agencies list out high paying jobs in the farming/seeds/mill industry. For instance, The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) frequently offers high-paying jobs in research, policy formulation, and regulatory compliance.
3. Research institutions
Various research institutions, such as universities and commercial research groups, frequently provide high-paying jobs in agricultural science and technology.
4. Seed companies
Companies like Pioneer, Bayer, and BASF provide high-paying positions in seed production, sales, and research.
5. Milling companies
Milling firms such as ADM, Bunge, and Cargill provide high-paying positions in milling operations, management, and engineering.
What are the Top-Level Skills to Get a High-Paying Job in Farming/Seeds/Mill?
To earn a high-paying job in farming/seeds/mill, you must have a diverse set of skills and knowledge. You can boost your chances of securing a high-paying job in farming, seeds, and milling by mastering some of these skills
7 top-level skills needed for high paying jobs in farming/seeds/mill:
1. Technical skill
Technical knowledge and skills are required for many high-paying occupations in farming/seeds/mill. This involves an understanding of crop science, seed production, milling processes, and other industry specialist areas.
2. Analytical skills
Analytical abilities are required for work in research and development, data analysis, and precision agriculture. This includes being able to understand data, spot trends, and make sound decisions.
3. Business acumen
Several high-paying jobs in farming/seeds/mill demand excellent business abilities, such as financial management, strategic planning, and marketing. This includes understanding market trends and developing effective business strategies.
4. Communication skills
Good communication skills are essential in every industry, but they are especially crucial in farming/seeds/mill. This includes the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders, including farmers, scientists, regulators, and consumers.
5. Problem-solving skills
Problem-solving abilities are required in the farming/seeds/mill industry, where factors like climate change, pests, and diseases can pose substantial challenges.
6. Leadership skills
Several high-paying positions in farming/seeds/mill necessitate strong leadership qualities. This includes the ability to motivate and inspire teams, build consensus, and make difficult decisions.
7. Adaptability
Because the farming/seed/mill industry is always changing, successful professionals in this field must be versatile and open to new opportunities. This involves the ability to pick up new skills, adopt new technology, and adapt to changing market conditions.
What are the Factors Affecting an Employee’s Salary in Farming/Seeds/Mill?
Employees in the farming/seeds/mill industry can make educated choices by recognizing some of the factors that affect the industry.
5 major factors determining an employee’s salary in the farming/seeds/mill industry:
1. Education and experience
Workers with advanced degrees, certificates, or related experience may be eligible for a higher salary in the farming/seeds/mill industry. This is especially true for jobs requiring specialist technical or scientific skills.
2. Job type and responsibilities
An employee’s wage can also be affected by the type of job and level of responsibility. Higher-level management positions or responsibilities requiring significant decision-making and leadership may pay more than entry-level or labor-intensive professions.
3. Industry and company
Wages can differ depending on the industry and firm for which individual works. Jobs in the biotechnology or seed industries, for example, may pay more than traditional farming or milling jobs. Similarly, larger and more established enterprises may pay more than smaller, family-owned businesses.
4. Geographic location
Wages can also differ based on where the job is located. Locations with high living costs or a high demand for talented employees may provide greater wages.
5. Demand and supply
Much like any other industry, farming/seeds/mill job salaries are controlled by supply and demand. Employers may need to provide higher wages to attract if there is a lack of skilled workers in a particular sector.
Conclusion: 20 Best Paying Jobs in Farming/Seeds/Mill
The job market is expanding for those interested in the farming/seeds/mill industry. There are several job opportunities in this industry that attracts lucrative salaries. Anyone with the right set of talents can find work in this industry.
Frequently Asked Questions on 20 Best Paying Jobs in Farming/Seeds/Mill
What are the highest paying agriculture jobs?
Some of the highest paying agriculture jobs are agricultural lawyer, agricultural economist, and agricultural engineer.
What is the best job for a farmer?
The best job for a farmer is farm manager, farm equipment operator, and agricultural technician.
How can I make big money in agriculture?
You can make big money in agriculture by seeking out some of the best paying jobs in the farming/seeds/mill industry.
What is the highest salary in BSc agriculture?
The highest salary for BSc holders in agriculture includes agricultural economist, agricultural operations manager, and plant geneticist. Salary in this profession ranges from $60,000 to more than $100,000 annually.
