Overview

Agricultural engineers study and apply engineering science and design principles for the use and development of agricultural land, buildings, machines and equipment across a diverse set of agricultural projects. They design, build and test equipment and processes that reduce operation cost, eliminate emissions, improve operator safety and improve sustainable agriculture practices.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Design solutions for agricultural equipment based on product requirements
• Interpret and design complete blueprints and drawings for production use
• Assist in installing and testing motorized equipment
• Take measurements and record data and observations
• Communicate with clients, farmers, stakeholders and government departments
• Test designs and recommend changes
• Perform a wide range of engineering technology tasks using computer-assisted software and equipment
• Understand and utilize detailed, technical information to solve complex problems
• Collaborate and consult with other engineers and professionals on projects
• Work on waste management system including animal waste and fertilizer runoff
• Communicate with clients, farmers, stakeholders and government departments
• Review research and literature relating to current discoveries in the field
• Engineer the construction of agricultural buildings and storage facilities to engineer a system that is most cost efficient
• Plan projects that adhere to timelines and budgets
• Supervise the construction of flood and water systems
• Participate in long term studies of agricultural structures
• Design equipment and machinery used for field preparation, seeding, spraying, harvesting and transporting agricultural products
• Ensure projects designed follow with local safety and health regulations
• Prepare and present technical reports, meet with clients and communicate technical concepts to all stakeholders
• Advocate for sustainable agriculture on a local and national level to interested parties

What education and training is required?

A bachelor's degree in agricultural, civil, environmental or chemical engineering is required. Having an agricultural background, especially in production, may be useful, but is not essential.

To pursue a career as an Agricultural Engineer:

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, physics, advanced mathematics, computer skills, advanced sciences, agricultural mechanics and English.

Where can I work?

Environmental engineers are typically employed by producers, manufacturers and distributors of agricultural machinery, power companies, consulting firms, energy industry firms and agri-food processing firms.

Future Job Market / Outlook

Excellent

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• National Society of Professional Engineers
• The American Society of Mechanical Engineers
• American Society of Agricultural Engineers
• American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers