Farmer/Rancher

Your Fit

Income

$84K

Preparation

Considerable

Growth

-4.6%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Farmer/Rancher?

Farmers and Ranchers manage the operations of farms, ranches, greenhouses, and other agricultural production establishments. They are responsible for growing crops, raising livestock, and producing various agricultural goods.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Farmer/Rancher.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Farmer/Rancher earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$48K per year	$64K per year	$84K per year	$109K per year	$136K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $36K above the national average.

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What does a Farmer/Rancher do?

Work environment

Farmers and Ranchers typically work outdoors in various weather conditions and may also spend time in offices managing business aspects. Their work environment is predominantly on farms, ranches, or other rural properties, requiring both physical labor and management skills.

Quick task list

Cultivates soil, plants, and harvests crops.
Raises and cares for livestock.
Manages farm equipment and maintains facilities.
Makes business decisions regarding crop or livestock sales.
Implements sustainable farming practices and manages resources.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Crop Production: Specializing in the cultivation and harvest of crops.
Livestock Ranching: Focusing on raising animals such as cattle, sheep, or pigs.
Organic Farming: Utilizing organic methods to produce crops and livestock.
Agritourism: Incorporating tourism into the farming or ranching business.

Description

Farmers and Ranchers are the backbone of the agricultural industry, playing a critical role in food production and land management. They must possess a deep understanding of agricultural practices and be adept at handling the physical demands of farm work. This occupation requires knowledge in various areas, including crop cultivation, animal husbandry, equipment operation, and basic veterinary practices.

In addition to the physical aspects of farming and ranching, business management skills are essential. Farmers and Ranchers must make decisions about crop sales, livestock markets, and resource management. They need to be adaptable, able to cope with challenges such as weather changes, market fluctuations, and evolving agricultural technologies.

Sustainability and environmental stewardship are increasingly important. Farmers and Ranchers must balance productivity with sustainable practices, ensuring the long-term health of their land and resources. This may include implementing conservation practices, exploring renewable energy sources, and adapting to organic farming methods.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Working closely with nature and the land.
Producing food and resources for the community.
The independence and self-sufficiency of managing a farm or ranch.

You might make a good Farmer/Rancher if you are...

Passionate about agriculture and the outdoors.
Physically fit and not afraid of hard work.
Interested in animal husbandry and crop cultivation.
Skilled in problem-solving and decision-making.
Capable of adapting to the unpredictability of farming life.

Pros:

Connection with Nature: Farmers and ranchers often enjoy a close connection to the land and nature, offering a fulfilling outdoor lifestyle.
Independence: Many appreciate the independence and autonomy of managing their own agricultural business.
Varied Daily Tasks: The occupation involves a diverse range of activities, from animal care to crop cultivation, providing variety in daily work.
Legacy and Tradition: Opportunity to continue or build a family legacy in agriculture and contribute to local food systems.

Cons:

Physically Demanding: Farming and ranching require physical labor, often in challenging weather conditions.
Financial Uncertainty: Income can be unpredictable due to factors like market prices, weather conditions, and economic trends.
Long Hours: The occupation often demands long hours, early mornings, and late evenings, especially during planting and harvest seasons.
Isolation: Rural living can be isolated, and the workload can limit social interactions and leisure time.

How to become a Farmer/Rancher

Typical education

Formal education requirements can vary widely, ranging from a high school diploma to a bachelor's degree in agriculture or a related field. Practical experience, often gained through work on a family farm or ranch, is highly valued.

High school preparation

Courses:

Agricultural Science: Provides foundational knowledge in animal science, horticulture, and crop production.
Biology and Environmental Science: Important for understanding plant and animal biology and ecological impacts.
Business Studies: Useful for learning how to manage and operate a farming or ranching business.
Mechanics or Shop Classes: Helps in acquiring skills for machinery repair and maintenance.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Future Farmers of America (FFA) or 4-H Clubs: Offers practical agricultural experience and leadership development.
Gardening or Environmental Clubs: Develops a hands-on understanding of plant cultivation and conservation.
Volunteering on Farms or Ranches: Provides real-world experience in agricultural practices.

Preparation after high school

Associate or Bachelor's Degree: Degrees in agriculture, animal science, or agribusiness can be beneficial.
Apprenticeships: Hands-on learning through apprenticeships or working on a farm or ranch.
Agricultural Workshops and Seminars: Attending industry workshops to stay current on agricultural techniques and trends.
Join Agricultural Organizations: To network, learn, and stay informed about agricultural policies and innovations.

More resources

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) - Provides resources and information for farmers and ranchers, including grants and educational programs.
National Young Farmers Coalition - Offers resources and advocacy for young and beginning farmers and ranchers.
Future Farmers of America (FFA) - An organization that provides agricultural education and leadership opportunities for students.
American Farm Bureau Federation - Offers resources, advocacy, and educational programs for farmers and ranchers.
National Farmers Union - Provides education, support, and advocacy for farmers and ranchers.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.