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Agriculturists (also known as extension officers)
Job description:	Agriculturists helps farmers with the development of their land and the infrastructure on their land, and also provides extension (information) services. Some agriculturists are specialists in specific farming areas or activities, and their responsibility lies mostly with providing an information and support service to improve the profitability of existing farmers. Others specialise in helping new farmers develop their farms to become profitable. Agriculturists should be practical, realistic, innovative and organised. They should able to work independently, and also have excellent communication skills, both oral and written, with people from all walks of life. Being able to lead constructive meetings is also very important. A lively interest in agriculture in general is essential. Technical and practical knowledge of agricultural practices is essential, e.g. cost-effective production, breeding, irrigation, marketing, financial management, facilities and planning. TASKS: Determining the needs of farmers or farming groups Arranging farmer’s days and information days for farmers and farming groups around specific topics, e.g. new planting techniques or animal health; also to demonstrate new techniques or mechanical advances in the various industries Train farmers or farmworkers Technical and practical suggestions to specific farmers for specific problems, including infrastructure, e.g. irrigation or poultry houses.
Study:	B. Agric Cape Institute for Agriculture: Elsenburg B. Tech (Peninsula University of Technology) B.Sc Agriculture (University of Stellenbosch – UCT? UWC?)
Agricultural Economist
Job description:	An agricultural economist analyses economic and social phenomena in the world, and their impact on agriculture. Research is an important part of the career. Some career opportunities include: Agribusiness Management Financial services An agricultural economist should have mathematical skills, be intuitive and have excellent communication skills. TASKS: Studies economic and statistical data in area of agriculture. Devises methods and procedures for collecting and processing data, utilising knowledge of available sources of data and various econometric and sampling techniques. Compiles data relating to research area, such as employment, productivity, and wages and hours. Reviews and analyzes economic data in order to prepare reports detailing results of investigation, and to stay abreast of economic changes. Organizes data into report format and arranges for preparation of graphic illustrations of research findings. Formulates recommendations, policies, or plans to aid in market interpretation or solution of economic problems, such as recommending changes in methods of agricultural financing, domestic, and international monetary policies, or policies that regulate investment and transfer of capital. Source: Career Planner.com
Study:	Postgraduate qualification in economics, preferably Agricultural Economics. University of Stellenbosch Faculty of Agri Sciences
Agricultural Engineer or Engineering Technician
Job description:	Applies engineering technology and knowledge of biological sciences to agricultural problems concerned with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water utilisation, and processing of agricultural products. Agricultural engineers should be problem-solvers with an eye for detail, a head for technology and a heart for design. They should have good communication skills, and enjoy working with a team of colleagues and clients alike. Being practical and adaptable will come in useful, as things often do not go according to plan. TASKS: Develops criteria for design, manufacture, or construction of equipment, structures, and facilities. Designs and directs manufacture of equipment for land tillage and fertilization, and for harvesting or moving commodities. Designs and supervises erection of structures for crop storage, animal shelter, and human dwelling, including light, heat, air-conditioning, water supply, and waste disposal. Plans and directs construction of irrigation (incl. dams), drainage, and flood-control systems for soil and water conservation. Designs and supervises installation of equipment and instruments used to evaluate and process farm products, and to automate agricultural operations. Designs and uses sensing, measuring, and recording devices and instrumentation to research problems and develop new methods and techniques. Sources: My career path Career planner.com
Study:	Engineer: BSc Agricultural, Civil or Mechanical Engineering – four year graduate qualification at any university (Agricultural only at KwaZulu-Natal) Technician: T3, T4 or B.Tech – 3 to 4 year diploma at any technikon.