Agricultural Engineers

Agricultural Engineer

Agricultural Systems Specialist

Conservation Engineer

Engineer

Field Engineer

Product Engineer

Product Technology Scientist

Project Engineer

Research Agricultural Engineer

Research Engineer

What is an Agricultural Engineer?

Agricultural Engineers are professionals who apply engineering principles and technology to the agricultural sector. Their work involves designing and improving agricultural machinery, equipment, and structures, as well as developing methods to conserve soil and water, manage crops, and improve the efficiency of agricultural processes. They often work on projects that enhance food production, soil and water conservation, and sustainable agricultural practices. By integrating concepts from mechanical, civil, electrical, and environmental engineering, Agricultural Engineers aim to solve challenges in farming and food production, ensuring that the industry can meet the growing global demand for food while minimizing environmental impacts. They may also engage in research and development to innovate and find better solutions to agricultural problems, thus contributing to advancements in food safety, crop management, and sustainable land use.

Job Outlook

Projected salary and job growth

$62150.0 - $127590.0

This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.

Finding local jobs...

Assessment

Related assessments and tests

No assessment available.

Related Occupations

Tasks

Prepare reports, sketches, working drawings, specifications, proposals, and budgets for proposed sites or systems.
Visit sites to observe environmental problems, to consult with contractors, or to monitor construction activities.
Meet with clients, such as district or regional councils, farmers, and developers, to discuss their needs.
Discuss plans with clients, contractors, consultants, and other engineers so that they can be evaluated and necessary changes made.
Test agricultural machinery and equipment to ensure adequate performance.

Technology Skills

Computer aided design CAD software
- AutoCAD
- SOLIDWORKS
- Civil 3D
- Creo
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Data base user interface and query software
- Microsoft Access
- Oracle Database
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
Geographic information system
- ArcGIS Pro

Tools Used

Notebook computers
- Laptop computers
Theodolites
- Total stations
Personal digital assistant PDAs or organizers
- Personal digital assistants PDA
Plotter printers
- Plotters
Desktop computers

Knowledge

Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Physics
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.

49 Active Jobs in South Africa

Avg Salary: R55,089pm

How to Know if You Are Ready to be an Agricultural Engineer in South Africa

The agricultural landscape in South Africa is undergoing a massive digital and mechanical transformation. As we strive for food security and sustainable resource management, the role of the Agricultural Engineer has never been more vital. Currently, the market is vibrant with 40 active jobs available, and the financial rewards are reflective of this demand. With an average salary of R55,089pm, the sector has seen a consistent upward trend throughout 2024, with industry data showing entry-to-mid-level earnings rising from approximately R48,479 in January to over R60,598 by December.

Is Agricultural Engineering Right for Me? (Psychometric Checklist)

Before committing to this rigorous career path, it is essential to assess whether your natural inclinations align with the demands of the profession. Consider the following traits:

Analytical Problem-Solving: Do you enjoy breaking down complex mechanical or biological problems into manageable solutions?
Environmental Stewardship: Are you passionate about South Africa’s natural resources, specifically regarding water conservation and soil health?
Technical Aptitude: Do you have a strong foundational interest in mathematics, physics, and the mechanics of how things work?
Adaptability: Can you transition comfortably from a high-tech boardroom presentation to a muddy field in the North West Province?
Innovation Mindset: Are you constantly looking for ways to "do more with less" through automation, robotics, or renewable energy?
Precision and Detail: Do you value accuracy, especially when designing systems where a small margin of error could impact an entire season's harvest?

A Day in the Life of a South African Agricultural Engineer

Your day will rarely be confined to a single desk. In the South African context, an Agricultural Engineer’s morning might begin in an office or laboratory, using CAD software to design efficient irrigation systems or planning the layout for a new solar-powered processing plant. By mid-morning, you could be on-site at a commercial farm in the Limpopo Valley or the Western Cape, overseeing the installation of precision farming sensors or troubleshooting heavy machinery.

You will act as the bridge between traditional farming and modern technology. This involves collaborating with agronomists, environmental scientists, and farmers to ensure that agricultural production is not only profitable but ecologically sound. Whether you are managing water runoff in a drought-prone region or optimising the supply chain for a citrus export programme, your work is practical, impactful, and essential to the nation's economy.

Education & Upskilling

To succeed in this field, a robust educational foundation is non-negotiable. In South Africa, the primary route is a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BScEng) or a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Agricultural Engineering, typically offered by institutions such as the University of KwaZulu-Natal or the University of Pretoria. Following your degree, it is essential to register as a Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).

However, a degree is only the starting point. The rapid pace of "Agri-Tech" means that continuous learning is the hallmark of a successful professional. You should look into:

Short Courses: Specialisations in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Drone Piloting for Agriculture, or Data Analytics.
Certifications: Focused certifications in Renewable Energy Systems or Advanced Water Management.
CPD Programmes: Engaging in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to maintain your ECSA registration and stay abreast of international engineering standards.

Next Steps

Agricultural Engineering is a demanding yet deeply rewarding career that sits at the intersection of technology and nature. If you have the technical grit and a passion for the land, you are already halfway there. But are you truly ready to take the leap into this evolving sector? Test your readiness now by completing our comprehensive professional assessment to see if you have the profile to thrive in South Africa’s agricultural future.

Skills

Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Writing
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Abilities

Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

Education

How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?

Bachelor's degree

75 %
Master's degree

10 %
Doctoral degree

10 %

Work Activities

Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.

Detailed Work Activities

Create graphical representations of mechanical equipment.
Document technical design details.
Prepare proposal documents.
Confer with other personnel to resolve design or operational problems.
Investigate the environmental impact of projects.

Work Interests

Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.