Farmers and Ranchers manage the operations of farms, ranches, greenhouses, and other agricultural production establishments. They are responsible for growing crops, raising livestock, and producing various agricultural goods.
Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Years in related career: 5 years or more
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: -4.6% (negative growth)
Annual job openings: 85,500
Direct AI exposure: 10% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 39% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $90K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $54K per year | $66K per year | $90K per year | $119K per year | $160K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $39K above the national average. | ||||
Farmers and Ranchers typically work outdoors in various weather conditions and may also spend time in offices managing business aspects. Their work environment is predominantly on farms, ranches, or other rural properties, requiring both physical labor and management skills.
Farmers and Ranchers are the backbone of the agricultural industry, playing a critical role in food production and land management. They must possess a deep understanding of agricultural practices and be adept at handling the physical demands of farm work. This occupation requires knowledge in various areas, including crop cultivation, animal husbandry, equipment operation, and basic veterinary practices.
In addition to the physical aspects of farming and ranching, business management skills are essential. Farmers and Ranchers must make decisions about crop sales, livestock markets, and resource management. They need to be adaptable, able to cope with challenges such as weather changes, market fluctuations, and evolving agricultural technologies.
Sustainability and environmental stewardship are increasingly important. Farmers and Ranchers must balance productivity with sustainable practices, ensuring the long-term health of their land and resources. This may include implementing conservation practices, exploring renewable energy sources, and adapting to organic farming methods.
Formal education requirements can vary widely, ranging from a high school diploma to a bachelor's degree in agriculture or a related field. Practical experience, often gained through work on a family farm or ranch, is highly valued.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.