Agricultural Technicians


Also called : Agricultural Research Technician, Agricultural Research Technologist, Agricultural Technician, Laboratory Technician (Lab Tech), Research Assistant, Research Associate, Research Specialist, Research

What they do


Work with agricultural scientists in plant, fiber, and animal research, or assist with animal breeding and nutrition. Set up or maintain laboratory equipment and collect samples from crops or animals. Prepare specimens or record data to assist scientists in biology or related life science experiments. Conduct tests and experiments to improve yield and quality of crops or to increase the resistance of plants and animals to disease or insects.

On the job, one would


    KNOWLEDGE


    • Mathematics
      Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

    • Biology
      Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.

    • Chemistry
      Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.

    • Administration and Management
      Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

    SKILLS


    • Reading Comprehension
      Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

    • Active Listening
      Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

    • Complex Problem Solving
      Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

    • Critical Thinking
      Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

    • Writing
      Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

    ABILITIES


    • Near Vision
      The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

    • Written Comprehension
      The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

    • Oral Comprehension
      The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

    • Oral Expression
      The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.

    • Problem Sensitivity
      The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.

    PERSONALITY

    People interested in this work, will do well at jobs that need;

    • Attention to Detail
      Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.

    • Integrity
      Job requires being honest and ethical.

    • Dependability
      Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.

    • Analytical Thinking
      Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.

    • Achievement/Effort
      Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.

    • Concern for Others
      Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.

    • Leadership
      Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.

    • Independence
      Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.

    • Adaptability/Flexibility
      Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.

    • Cooperation
      Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.

    TECHNOLOGY

    • Analytical or scientific software

    • Data base user interface and query software

    • Desktop publishing software

    • Electronic mail software

    • Enterprise resource planning ERP software

    • Internet browser software

    • Office suite software

    • Operating system software

    • Presentation software

    • Spreadsheet software

    • Word processing software

    EDUCATION AND TRAINING

    • Preparation

      Medium Preparation Needed

    • Education

      Training in vocational schools or an Associate deg

    • Experience

      Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.

    • Jobtraining

      Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers.

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