Agriculture has become highly technical in recent years, and those that labor on the land have found that there is more required knowledge than ever before. Though the science of the earth has become more and more fine-tuned, it is still more honest and intuitive than most. Those that love to work outside and care about the quality of the earth's fruits should consider pursuing an agricultural degree, which would open the doors to fulfilling careers in crop farm or vineyard management, agricultural engineering, or range management.

Crop Farm and Vineyard Manager

Crop farm managers direct others in the planting, tending, or harvesting of crops, and may involve plant treatments such as pesticides or herbicides. As well as harvesting and machinery maintenance, crop farm managers may also be responsible for recruitment, payroll, record keeping, and packaging. Agricultural crop farm managers need to meet with other departments and companies such as packing plants, equipment maintenance, and purchasers of crops; a large proportion of time may be spent outside, no matter what the weather is like. Additionally, early morning, late night, and weekend work is to be expected. Annual median earnings of crop farm managers were $43,740 in 2002. Vineyard managers have very similar work to crop farm managers, but prepare grapes for conversion to wine. These workers may also deal with customers in the vineyards and dish out wine samples. The salary is very similar to crop farm management, but vineyard workers often receive free bottles of wine as bonuses.

Range Manager

Range managers are responsible for preparing strategies and specifications for the protection of natural rangelands, related grazing areas, and outdoor recreation areas. Range managers are also responsible for maintaining soil stability, ensuring that soil erosion is kept to a minimum, and maintaining forage resources through use of herbicides, fire, or planting. There are occasions when meetings with ranchers are necessary to regulate grazing and protect ranges from overuse. Most work is outside, so range managers need to be ready for all kinds of weather conditions. Office based duties include administration and payroll, and starting salaries were around $23,442 in 2002.

Agricultural Engineer

Agricultural engineers apply knowledge of science and engineering technology to the efficient use of biological resources and agriculture. They also design agricultural machinery, equipment, and structures. Some may specialize in areas such as machinery and power systems design, structures and environment engineering, or food and bioprocess engineering. Agricultural engineers often work in production, sales, research and development or management. Like most engineers, employees in this field may work in office buildings, laboratories, or industrial plants, but many work on agricultural sites. Many engineers work 40 hours a week, but most work more during deadlines. Agricultural engineers start at $46,172, but with a master's degree, this salary increases to $53,022 a year.