What does a farmer do?
Farmers are responsible for sowing and harvesting of crops and monitoring the wellbeing of livestock on a farm. There are many different approaches to farming, from large scale commercial monocropping, mixed or rotational (polyculture) farming, raising livestock or choosing an organic certification. Famers are responsible for conducting operations to aid in whichever processes suit the scale and output of the farm. Daily duties may include: animal wrangling, monitoring soil, performing checks on the health of livestock, planting trees and crops, maintaining budgets, fertilising and spraying crops, and performing harvest duties.
Tasks:
- Oversee operations on a farm
- Implement systems that increase production
- Monitor wellbeing of animals
- Fertilise crops and perform soil checks
- Harvest crops and transport stock
What skills do I need to be a farmer?
Being a farmer requires a few specialised skills and personality traits. Farming is generally considered to be quite a difficult, yet rewarding, vocation. Farming requires a personality that is not averse to dealing with problems of a financial, logistical or environmental nature. Farmers need also be very fit, as the physical demands of the job require someone who possesses quite a high level of physical fitness. Farmers must also be able to work in all weather conditions.
- Physically fit
- Logical and methodical problem solver
- Confident around animals
- Can work independently for periods of time
- Enjoys working outdoors
Specialisations
There are a number of specialised roles within the agriculture industry that, with the right experience, you may consider as potential career options.
Shearer
Farm hand
Production horticulturist
Study pathways for farmers
Farming is intense work that requires not only physical strength but an understanding of the processes, methods and approaches to farming that underpin the work.
Getting Started
Choose a course that builds your knowledge of agricultural practices
Skill Building
With targeted study options, develop your credentials to maximise your strengths and interests
Professional Development
Learn the logistical and financial requirements for operating a successful farm
Industry Recognition
You can enter the agricultural sector without formal training, however to be a desirable candidate for senior or managerial roles, completing a course of study is your best option.
Getting a job after graduation
Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your agriculture career. Emphasise your personal strengths and achievements in your resume and target your cover letter to the job description listed.