Nature of the Work

Agricultural engineers apply knowledge of engineering technology and biological science to agriculture. They design agricultural machinery and equipment and agricultural structures.


Some specialties include power systems and machinery design; structures and environment; and food and bioprocess engineering.


They develop ways to conserve soil and water and to improve the processing of agricultural products. Agricultural engineers work in research and development, production, sales or management.

Employment

Most agricultural engineers worked for professional, scientific, and technical services, supplying consultant services to farmers and farm-related industries.


Others worked in a wide variety of industries, including crops and livestock as well as manufacturing and government

Job Outlook

Employment of agricultural engineers is expected to increase very fast. The growing interest in standardization of agricultural equipment should result in increased employment of agricultural engineers.


Job opportunities also should result from the increasing demand for agricultural products, the continued efforts for more efficient agricultural production, and the increasing emphasis on the conservation of resources.