Job Description

Agricultural Engineers will use their knowledge of engineering and biology to design, install and service agricultural, horticultural and forestry equipment. They will work with new technologies to improve existing techniques which will help farmers and land owners make better use of their land and resources

Entry Requirements

There are various ways in which you can get into this job role and the entry requirements can vary depending on what you choose to do:

Apprenticeship

You may be able to start by doing a land-based service engineering technician advanced apprenticeship and once working, complete further training to become an engineer.

You will usually need 5 GCSE's grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) including English and maths for an advanced apprenticeship.

Click here to search for an apprenticeship.

University

You could do a foundation degree or degree in agricultural engineering or agricultural machinery engineering.  Follow the link to find courses offered by land based colleges

You can also get into this role through a higher national diploma or degree in environmental, electrical or mechanical engineering

To take a foundation degree you will normally need at least one A level

For a high national diploma or degree you will normally need between one and three A levels

Click here to search for a suitable course.

Through work based training 

You could work as an agricultural engineer technician and train on the job to qualify as an engineer.

Career Path and Progression

With experience you could move into project management or specialist technical research and development. 

You could also work towards incorporated or chartered engineer status by applying to the Engineering Council. As a chartered engineer you’ll plan, research and develop new ideas. The Institution of Agricultural Engineers has more information. 

You could also move into technical sales, business development, teaching or consultancy work.

Related careers you may be interested in:

• Agricultural engineering technician
• Agricultural contractor
• Farmer
• Construction plant mechanic

Required Skills

• Excellent technical abilities
• Able to analyse data effectively
• A creative and methodical approach to problem solving
• A flexible working approach
• An interest in environmental issues
• The ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines.

Salary Range

£25,000 to £45,000