Agricultural engineering technician

Agricultural engineering technicians help to solve practical engineering problems in land-based industries.

• create equipment plans using computer aided design (CAD) software
• test machinery's electrical and mechanical systems
• install machinery on site
• inspect, remove, replace and test equipment
• research machinery developments and market trends
• demonstrate and sell new equipment and parts
• deal with enquiries and orders

You could work in an office, in a workshop or in a factory. Your working environment may be physically demanding and outdoors in all weathers.

You could work in an office, in a workshop or in a factory.

40 to 42 hours variable

• maths knowledge
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• design skills and knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• analytical thinking skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• concentration skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course

You can do a Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Land-Based Technology or Land-Based Engineering at an agricultural college.

You could also do a T Level in Agriculture, Land Management and Production.

You'll usually need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A
  * to
  
  D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A
  * to
  
  C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A
  * to
  
  C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level

You can get into this job through a land-based service engineering technician advanced apprenticeship. You can do this with an equipment manufacturer, service and repair contractor or at an agricultural college.

• With experience, knowledge and industry contacts, you could become self-employed.
• You could become a senior technician or workshop manager, or progress to a senior sales or management position.
• You could also move into a training job as a college lecturer or technician, or take on an inspection role.