Farm Manager

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Work Tasks

FARM MANAGERS are responsible for making a farm productive and profitable. Their duties and responsibilities vary widely depending on the size and type of farm. They may care for and feed livestock. They may determine land use, select the crops, participate in planting and harvesting, and determine marketing schedules. They evaluate existing methods and advise farm owners or make suggestions on ways to improve methods. They may maintain financial records, operate within a budget limit, and do bookkeeping. They determine labor needs and hire, train, and supervise workers as needed.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $49,000 average per year ($23.50 per hour)
• A small occupation (24,000 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow slowly (0.6% per year)

Entry Requirements

Most employers prefer FARM MANAGERS to have a bachelor's degree in business with a concentration in agriculture. Several years of experience in various aspects of farm operations is also needed. Voluntary certification is offered by the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA), which requires several years of farm management experience; a bachelor's or master's degree in a field of agricultural science; and passing exams relating to business, financial, and legal aspects of farm management.