Precision Agriculture Technicians
Apply geospatial technologies, including geographic information systems (GIS) and Global Positioning System (GPS), to agricultural production or management activities, such as pest scouting, site-specific pesticide application, yield mapping, or variable-rate irrigation. May use computers to develop or analyze maps or remote sensing images to compare physical topography with data on soils, fertilizer, pests, or weather.
Common Job Titles
- Agronomist
- Crop Specialist
- Precision Agriculture Specialist (Precision Ag Specialist)
- Precision Agronomist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeAnalyze geospatial data from GIS and GPS systems to assess soil conditions, pest distribution, and crop yield patterns using ESRI ArcGIS and precision agriculture software to optimize site-specific management decisions.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate GPS receivers, yield monitors, and variable-rate application equipment in agricultural field settings to collect accurate spatial data and implement precision application strategies.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate remote sensing imagery and topographic data against soil fertility, moisture, and pest information to develop variable-rate prescription maps for fertilizer, irrigation, and pesticide applications.Proficient
- MindsetEngage agricultural producers and stakeholders in precision agriculture technology adoption by providing consultation, training, and technical support to enhance farm management practices.Proficient
- KnowledgeCompare physical topography with agronomic data on soils, fertilizer application, and weather patterns to identify spatial relationships and optimize resource allocation across production zones.Proficient
- KnowledgeDesign pest scouting protocols and site-specific pesticide application plans integrating biological knowledge, regulatory requirements, and geospatial technologies to minimize environmental impact.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate sustainable precision agriculture practices and technology integration when communicating with clients, interdisciplinary teams, and external stakeholders to promote efficient resource use.Proficient
- KnowledgeExplain complex geospatial analysis results and precision agriculture recommendations to agricultural producers and field personnel through written reports, presentations, and training sessions.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess variable-rate irrigation system performance and crop water use efficiency by integrating moisture monitoring data, soil properties, and weather information to optimize irrigation scheduling.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply mathematical and statistical methods to interpret yield variability and crop performance data using Microsoft Excel and specialized farm management software to support data-driven decisions.Developing
- Hands-onCalibrate soil electrical conductivity measurement devices, moisture monitors, and autosteering systems following manufacturer specifications and field protocols to ensure data accuracy and equipment performance.Developing
- Hands-onPerform field data collection using soil samplers, sprayer application equipment, and GPS-enabled devices under varying environmental conditions to support precision agriculture mapping and analysis.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Precision Agriculture Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
14,340
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $32,860. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,480. 50th percentile: U.S. $46,790. 75th percentile: U.S. $59,370. 90th percentile: U.S. $69,010. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $32,860 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $69,010 |
| Workers on average earn | $49,680 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service4.2/5
- Computers and Electronics4.1/5
- Sales and Marketing3.5/5
- Mathematics3.5/5
- English Language3.5/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- AGCO GTA Software Suite
- Ag Leader Technology SMS Advanced
- ESRI ArcPad
- ESRI ArcView
- Farm Works Site Pro
- GeoAgro GIS
- Geographic information system GIS systems
- Global positioning system GPS software
Tools & Equipment
- Air clutches
- Automatic boom control systems
- Automatic land leveling systems
- Autosteering systems
- Desktop computers
- Fertilizer spreading equipment
- Field personal computers PC
- Global positioning system GPS receivers