Agronomist

Agronomic Innovation Manager

Persuade

My career makes a difference because it connects science to farm operations so I can help them grow the best crops. Having up to date information is crucial as agriculture is ever changing.”

Brianna Lummerding, Nutrien
Agronomist

In A Nutshell

I act as a link between the research community and the farming community.

I lead the development of innovative practices that farmers can use to maximize their production and harvest

I provide expertise to support education and training initiatives in my organization and out in the field

Swipe

Featured Employer

Nutrien  logo

Nutrien

Nutrien is the world's largest provider of crop inputs and services, helping to safetly and sustainably feed a growing world. We operate a world class network of production, distribution and retail facilities that positions us to efficiently serve the needs of farmers.

Explore More: https://www.nutrien.com/grow-nutrien

Potential Salary Range

$44,000 - 74,000 Annually

Which provinces would this job be in?

Alberta AB
Alberta
British Columbia BC
British Columbia
Manitoba MB
Manitoba
New Brunswick NB
New Brunswick
Newfoundland & Labrador NL
Newfoundland & Labrador
Nova Scotia NS
Nova Scotia
Ontario ON
Ontario
Prince Edward Island PEI
Prince Edward Island
Quebec QC
Quebec
Saskwatchewan SK
Saskwatchewan

I do a lot of hands-on work in the field! I get to travel to different farms every day, so there’s a lot of diversity in my workplace - which I love. In the winter, I work from a home office and attend conferences and workshops.

Workplace

Indoor / Outdoor

Job Requirements & Duties

  • Scout fields and consult with customers on what I find in the field
  • Talk to researchers to learn about the latest methods for managing pests and diseases
  • Advise farmers on ways to improve their production and profits while considering environmental wellbeing
  • Evaluate new crop varieties and the potential for farmers to use them in their growing programs
  • Look into how soil characteristics and water drainage impact plant growth and decide on crop management strategies that respond to these factors
  • Learn about new crop technologies and train people on how to use them
  • Prepare presentations and speak at training sessions and workshops for farmers and others working in agriculture
  • Conduct research in the field, trialing new products and different seed varieties so that I know what products to recommend to my farmers
  • In the winter, I spend time training my sales team, hosting informative webinars for farmers, and take some training myself so that my skills stay sharp

Education & Training

  • In most cases, the minimum education requirement to work as an agronomist is a university undergraduate degree. In most provinces, agronomists must be certified and a member of a professional association.
  • There is lots of opportunity to continue education in the job through classes and training sessions; working with a good company will ensure that you're able to take advantage of those programs if you choose.
100all

Job Outlook

    Science is a very important part of crop production; the outlook for agronomists looks great, as farmers continue to rely on them for guidance.

Related School Subjects

Science
Career Education
Social Studies

What words come to mind when thinking about this career?

Agronomy Crops Research Plants Science

Important Skills

Analytical Thinking

When I walk into a field that has a sick crop, there could be many different things that are making it sick. I need to analyze the environment to figure out what the real culprit is.

Artboard 32@5x

Problem Solving

You never know what to expect when you walk into a field, so you need to be able to solve whatever problems that you may find.

Coaching & Mentoring

Technology can be intimidating for a lot of people. I need to be able to provide technical support and mentorship to clients in a way that they feel confident with the new products being introduced.   

Public Speaking

Part of my role is presenting findings and new technologies to farmers, so I have to feel comfortable speaking in front of a crowd.

Swipe

The Best Things About This Job Are…

Helps Others
Independent Work
Work Changes Daily
Seasonality
Has Business Perks