Need Help Searching for Jobs in Agriculture?

Finding a job in the agriculture sector can feel a lot like looking for a needle in a haystack. Often, it’s not about what you know, but about where you look and how you present yourself.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are more than 145,000 job openings in agriculture

each year, covering everything from breeding livestock to managing greenhouses and working in agricultural research. The job opportunities are plentiful –  if only you know where to look.

As one of the leading agriculture recruitment firms, M&F Talent knows well how challenging, yet rewarding, the search for agriculture jobs can be. Are you ready to plant the seeds for the career of your dreams? Here are 10 essential tips for finding jobs in agriculture:

1. Look in the Right Place

First things first, you’ve got to know where to search. Specialized job boards like Indeed, Monster, and even LinkedIn have dedicated sections for jobs in agriculture. Also, leading agriculture companies like Syngenta and Cargill often have their own dedicated job boards posted online.

Not only that but many universities and colleges have career services with close connections to the agricultural industry. For example, Cornell University and UC Davis are well-known for their agriculture programs.

Don’t limit yourself to just one platform – cast a wide net to increase your chances of success.

2. Don’t Forget About Social Media

Social media isn’t just for cute animal videos and memes. Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and even Facebook can be a gold mine for job hunters.

Follow agriculture companies, join industry-specific groups, and engage with posts. Sometimes, job openings are posted exclusively on social media channels. Plus, your interactions might just get you noticed by hiring managers.

3. Ask to Be Referred

Just like social media, referrals can also be gold. Reach out to people in your network and ask if they know of any job openings. According to Forbes, “Employee referrals make a difference because recruiters and hiring managers are busy and receptive to shortcuts…If the referring employee knows the job opening well (perhaps they’re in a similar role or work alongside that role) then the referral carries even more weight.”

Networking is crucial in any industry, and agriculture is no different. A good word from a mutual connection can often give you an edge over the competition. Don’t be shy – most people are more than willing to help.

4. Read the Job Description Carefully

It might seem obvious, but read the job description thoroughly. Employers are very specific about what they’re looking for in a candidate. Taking this step is also helpful in identifying whether the role is a good fit for you.

In the end, it’s best not to waste anyone’s time applying for a job that isn’t a good match. If you are interested, highlight the key skills and experiences they seek, and make sure you mention them if you make it to the interview phase.

5. Tailor Your Resume, CV, and Cover Letter

One size does not fit all, especially when it comes to jobs in agriculture. Just because you have experience working in a greenhouse doesn’t mean you’re well-suited to a job in biotech.

Customize your resume, CV, and cover letter for each job you apply for. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. This shows the employer that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the role.

Here’s an example of what you might include to make your resume stand out:

• Objective: “Passionate Agricultural Technician with over five years of experience in leveraging precision agriculture technologies to optimize crop yield and soil health.”
• Experience: “Utilized advanced GPS and GIS technologies to improve field mapping and crop monitoring, resulting in a 15% increase in harvest efficiency.”
• Skills: “Precision Agriculture Technologies,” “GIS and GPS Proficiency,” and “Soil Health Assessment.”

Remember, a tailored application stands out much more than a generic one, even if you don’t hit all the qualifications perfectly.

6. Be Mindful of ATS Quirks

In today’s day and age, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are used by many companies to filter resumes before they even reach a human.

They’re efficient, but they can also be frustrating. To get past these digital gatekeepers, use keywords from the job description and avoid fancy formatting. Stick to simple, clear language to increase the chances of your application making it through.

7. Get Hands-On-Experience – and Talk About It

Experience speaks volumes. Whether it’s through an actual job or through volunteering, or internships, hands-on experience is invaluable. It not only bolsters your resume but also provides you with practical skills you can talk about during interviews.

Don’t be afraid to start small – every bit of experience counts.

8. Build A Versatile Skill Set

In today’s fast-evolving job market, versatility is key. Skills like data analysis, project management, and familiarity with modern farming technologies can set you apart.

You should also consider additional training and certifications to broaden your skill set. Many online platforms offer courses relevant to agriculture, often at little or no cost.

Here are some popular ones to consider pursuing:

• Precision Agriculture Technology: Understanding GPS, drones, and other tech for precise farming
• Soil Science and Management: Knowledge of soil properties and the ability to manage soil health
• Sustainable Agriculture Practices: Skills in conserving resources and minimizing environmental impact
• Agri-Business Management: Training in marketing, finance, and operational management within the agricultural sector
• Food Safety Certification: Certification specific to handling and processing food products safely
• Pest Management: Skills in identifying and controlling agricultural pests and disease
• Advanced Irrigation Techniques: Training in efficient water usage and irrigation systems

9. Figure Out Your Long-Term Career Goals

Where do you see yourself in five years? Ten years?

Having a clear vision of your long-term career goals helps you make strategic decisions now. It can guide you in choosing the right jobs to apply for and the skills you need to develop. Setting achievable milestones can keep you motivated and focused.

10. Work With an Agriculture Recruitment Firm

If you’re looking for jobs in agriculture, you’re probably already pretty independent and self-reliant. But you don’t have to go it alone. In fact, sometimes, you need a little expert help.

That’s where recruitment firms come in. Agencies like Mac & Fulton Talent Partners specialize in matching candidates with the perfect job.

They have industry insights and connections that can open doors you didn’t even know existed. Plus, they’ll help polish your application and prepare you for interviews.

Need Help Finding Jobs in Agriculture?

Landing your dream job in agriculture is no easy feat, but with the right strategies, it’s entirely achievable. Remember to leverage your network, tailor your applications, and continuously build your skills.

Need an extra boost searching for jobs in agriculture? Mac & Fulton Talent Partners are here to help you every step of the way.

Contact Mac & Fulton Talent Partners today to get started.