Occupation: 311111 – Agricultural Technician
(Agricultural Technical Officer)
Performs test and experiments, and provides technical support to assist Agricultural Scientists in areas such as research, production, servicing and marketing.
Skill Level:
The entry requirement for this occupation is to have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience, AQF Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma (ANZSCO Skill Level 2). At least 3 years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.
Tasks Include:
- examining topographical, physical and soil characteristics of farmland to determine its most effective use and identify nutrient deficiencies
- assisting in developing new methods of planting, fertilising, harvesting and processing crops to achieve optimum land usage
- identifying pathogenic micro-organisms and insects, parasities, fungi and weeds harmful to crops and livestock, and assisting in devising methods of control
- analysing produce to set and maintain standards of quality
- inspecting livestock to gauge the effectiveness of feed formulae
- assisting in controlled breeding experiments to develop improved crop and livestock strains
- arranging the supply of drugs, vaccines and other chemicals to Farmers and Farm managers, and giving advice on their use
- collecting and collating data for research
- planning slaughtering, harvesting and other aspects of production processes
- may advice producers on farming techniques and management
Specialisations:
Agriculture Laboratory Technician
Artificial Insemination Technical Officer
Dairy Technician
Field Crop Technical Officer
Herd Tester
Horticultural Technical Officer
Poultry Technical Officer
