About this career
Agricultural technicians assist the agriculturists in their work and help with the collection of information. They also give practical advice and information to the farming industry.
Agricultural technicians support agriculturists and farmers by assisting with planning, research, and applying agricultural knowledge sustainably. They manage laboratory equipment for soil and crop testing, collect and prepare samples, and diagnose animal health. They advise on soil conservation, prepare reports, and aid in livestock management. Types include agricultural resource technicians, aiding natural resource management; agricultural extension technicians, advising on farming practices; and agricultural research technicians, contributing to scientific research. Engineering technicians provide expertise in areas like irrigation and agricultural mechanisation.
Tasks performed by Agricultural Technicians include:
- Managing and maintaining laboratory equipment for soil and crop testing.
- Collecting and preparing samples from crops and animals for analysis.
- Recording data and assisting in biological and life sciences research.
- Diagnosing diseases and health issues in animals and specimens.
- Maintaining agricultural facilities, equipment, and tools.
- Advising on soil conservation and sustainable farming practices.
- Preparing detailed reports and analyses of research findings.
- Assisting with disease treatment and livestock management.
- Instructing on the classification and grading of agricultural products.
The future of work:
In the future, Agricultural Technicians will use advanced technology, including drones, sensors, and AI, to monitor and manage crop and livestock health. They will also assist with the implementation of precision farming techniques, ensuring efficient use of resources. Data analysis will help increase crops and reduce environmental impact. Sustainable farming practices will be a key focus.
To become an agricultural resource technician or an agricultural extension technician, the minimum requirement is the NDip. Agriculture: Resource Utilisation offered at the universities of technology of Mangosuthu and Pretoria.
To become an agricultural research technician, any of the following diplomas at a university of technology will lead to eventual qualification:
N.Dip. Agricultural Research: Botany;
N.Dip. Nature Conservation;
N.Dip. Analytical Chemistry;
N.Dip. Agriculture: Animal Production;
N.Dip. Veterinary Technology; or
N.Dip. Food Technology.
Engineering technicians need a National Diploma in Electrical, Civil or Mechanical Engineering.
A candidate can also apply to join the government service as a pupil technician. Theoretical training is offered by universities of technology for a part of each year. The rest of the training period is devoted to practical work. At the end of each year of training, examinations are conducted and on the successful completion of the 3-year course the National Diploma for Technicians is issued. After obtaining diplomas, pupil technicians are promoted to technician positions.
- Department of Agriculture
- Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
- Directorate of Agricultural Development
- Department of Constitutional Development
- veterinary and botanical laboratories
- various research stations
- self-employment, as consultant to farmers and agricultural co-operations
- Mathematics
SA Society for Agricultural Technologists
P/Bag X1251
Potchefstroom, 2520
Tel: (018) 299-6538
Agricultural Research Council
1134 Park Street, Hatfield
Pretoria
Tel: (012) 427-9700
www.arc.agric.za
Department of Agriculture
Private Bag X250
Pretoria, 0001
Tel: (012) 319-6000
https://www.daff.gov.za/
- visit a farm and ask to observe the farmer at work
- read farmer magazines to see whether you are really interested in agriculture
- make an appointment with an agricultural technician and ask to observe them at work
