Farm Manager

Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural managers plan, direct, and coordinate the management or operation of farms, ranches, nurseries, and other agricultural establishments. They negotiate with buyers, manage budgets, and apply technology to optimize yields. The BLS reports a median salary of $75,760 with 1% projected decline, though opportunities exist in precision agriculture and sustainable farming. Business acumen is as important as agricultural knowledge.

A Day in the Life

A typical day starts at sunrise checking on livestock and inspecting crop fields for signs of disease or pest damage. Mid-morning involves reviewing weather forecasts and adjusting irrigation schedules, then meeting with crew leaders to assign daily tasks. After lunch, the manager reviews financial reports, negotiates prices with a grain buyer, and orders replacement parts for a harvester. Late afternoon includes calibrating a drone for aerial crop scouting and planning the next season's planting schedule.

Key Stats

Required Skills