The most obvious careers in agriculture are directly related to the farm or ranch. But did you know that only 10 percent of Americans are involved in traditional farming? What other careers are available in the agricultural field?

Approximately 22 million people now work in agriculture- related fields. Unlike the agriculture of our grandparents day, today’s agriculture offers more than 200 rewarding and challenging careers. The following are some of the major areas for careers in agriculture.

Agribusiness Management

Focuses on the managerial functions performed by organizations throughout the food system. Sample job titles include commodity trader, agricultural production specialist, purchasing manager, financial manager, farm owner and manager, and wholesale/retail buyer manufacturing manager. Companies that hire for these positions include Seneca Food Corporation, Ralston Purina Company, Sunshine Mills, Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance, Archer-Daniels-Midland Company, Dow Elanco, Alabama Farm Credit, Pilgrim’s Pride, and Mar-Jac Poultry.

Agricultural and Natural Resources Communications

Focuses on careers in journalism, public relations, and advertising/marketing. Sample job titles include marketing communications manager, district sales representative, advertising manager, reporter, editor, and account manager. Companies and entities that hire for these positions: Upjohn Company, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Michigan Milk Producers Association, National Dairy Council, and Alabama Farmers Federation.

Building Construction Management

Focuses on land development and structural buildings. Sample job titles include project manager, estimator, construction scheduler, controller, purchasing agent, site manager, field engineer, land developer, and real estate appraiser. Companies that hire for these positions include Tiffin Motorhomes, Southern Homes, Reinke Irrigation, and Southern AGCOM.

Agriscience

Provides a foundation for careers in agricultural and natural resources industries. Sample job titles include agriscience educator, Extension educator, farmer, and human resources director. Companies that hire for these positions include Crop Production Services, John Deere, and Gerber Company

Resource Development and Management

Focuses on policy analysis, planning, evaluation, budgeting, and program management. Sample job titles include environmental analyst, environmental planner, solid waste coordinator, water resource specialist, and economic development specialist. Companies and entities that hire for these positions include the Cooperative Extension Service, the Bear Creek Watershed, the National Park Service, Enviroscope, Senate and House Policy Offices, lobbying organizations, banking organizations, city and state governments, and hospitals.