Agricultural and food science technicians
๐ค Save CareerAgricultural and food science technicians play a vital role in the US economy, with 39K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $48,480, with projected growth of 5% through 2034 (Faster than average).
๐ฐ Salary Range
๐ Growth Outlook
moderate โ 5% projected growth๐ค AI Automation Risk
AI may assist but is unlikely to replace this role.
๐คAI Impact Deep Dive: Agricultural and food science technicians
๐ฌ AI Impact Deep Dive: Agricultural and food science technicians
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
๐ฎ Future Outlook
This occupation involves a significant amount of physical labor, such as collecting biological samples, maintaining farm equipment, and operating laboratory hardware, which provides a buffer against full automation. However, AI will heavily impact the data-heavy portions of the job, including compiling test results, analyzing chemical properties, and generating reports, making technicians more productive but potentially reducing the number of workers needed for data processing.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
๐
A Day in the Life
๐Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 5% projected growth and a median salary of $48,480, this career offers steady prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires associate's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in agricultural and food science technicians who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
๐Majors & Top Schools
โFrequently Asked Questions
How much does a Agricultural and food science technicians make in 2026?โผ
The median salary for a Agricultural and food science technicians is $48,480 per year. Entry-level positions start around $29,088, while experienced professionals can earn up to $77,568 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Agricultural and food science technicians?โผ
Entry typically requires associate's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is associate's degree.
What degree do you need to be a Agricultural and food science technicians?โผ
Most Agricultural and food science technicians positions require associate's degree. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Agricultural and food science technicians?โผ
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Agricultural and food science technicians. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Agricultural and food science technicians do on a daily basis?โผ
As a agricultural and food science technician, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Agricultural and food science technicians a good career in 2026?โผ
With 5% projected growth and a median salary of $48,480, this career offers steady prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 5%, which is declining. The median salary of $48,480 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Agricultural and food science technicianss?โผ
Agricultural and food science technicians has an AI automation risk score of 40/100 (Low). AI will change how this work is done, but the core skills remain valuable. Professionals who learn to work with AI tools will have a significant advantage.
What kind of person makes a good Agricultural and food science technicians?โผ
Anyone interested in agricultural and food science technicians who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Agricultural and food science technicians Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Agricultural and food science technicians matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
Free ยท No signup required