JOB REPORT / 19-4012 · 48 TASKS

Agricultural Technicians.

Can AI do the work of Agricultural Technicians?

Mostly it works alongside you. Here is what shifts, task by task.

YOUR EXPERIENCE MATTERS

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How many tasks do you use AI to assist with at work?

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The parts of your job AI can already do most of:

Use geospatial technology to develop soil sampling grids…
Compare crop yield maps with maps of soil test…
Analyze data from harvester monitors to develop yield maps

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A guided certificate program in AI-assisted Agricultural Technicians work. It covers the 38 AI-affected parts of your job and ends in a capstone a person reviews.

WHAT WE LOOKED AT

Your job, task by task.

38 of 48 tasks reviewed

This job has 48 core tasks. We went through 38 of them, one at a time.

Task by task, from the work Agricultural Technicians actually do. How we describe AI use in each task is our own read of it, not a measurement of whether AI can replace the job.

TASK 01
Use geospatial technology to develop soil sampling grids or identify sampling sites for testing characteristics such as nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium content, pH, or micronutrients.
AI DOES
Generates sampling grid suggestions from field maps, satellite imagery, and soil variability data
YOU DO
Walk the field, apply local knowledge, and adjust grids based on real conditions AI can't see
TASK 02
Compare crop yield maps with maps of soil test data, chemical application patterns, or other information to develop site-specific crop management plans.
AI DOES
Overlays multiple map layers, spots patterns, and flags zones where yields don't match soil or chemical data
YOU DO
Use your field experience to turn data patterns into practical, site-specific management decisions
TASK 03
Analyze data from harvester monitors to develop yield maps.
AI DOES
Cleans raw harvest data, spots outliers, and generates draft yield maps
YOU DO
Verify sensor errors and translate map patterns into real farm decisions
TASK 04
Draw or read maps, such as soil, contour, or plat maps.
AI DOES
Reads and interprets map data, flags patterns, and overlays multiple map layers automatically
YOU DO
Verify map accuracy against real field conditions and apply local farming knowledge
TASK 05
Prepare reports in graphical or tabular form, summarizing field productivity or profitability.
AI DOES
Generates charts, tables, and written summaries from yield and cost data
YOU DO
Interpret field-specific context and tailor insights for each farm's goals
TASK 06
Analyze geospatial data to determine agricultural implications of factors such as soil quality, terrain, field productivity, fertilizers, or weather conditions.
AI DOES
Processes satellite imagery, runs soil and yield models, and flags problem zones on maps
YOU DO
Combine field knowledge, farmer goals, and local conditions to turn data into real decisions
TASK 07
Divide agricultural fields into georeferenced zones, based on soil characteristics and production potentials.
AI DOES
Analyzes soil data, satellite images, and yield maps to draft zone boundaries automatically
YOU DO
Walk the field, check AI-suggested zones against real conditions, and make final calls
TASK 08
Create, layer, and analyze maps showing precision agricultural data, such as crop yields, soil characteristics, input applications, terrain, drainage patterns, or field management history.
AI DOES
Processes sensor and yield data, generates map layers, spots patterns, and flags anomalies across fields
YOU DO
Apply local field knowledge and agronomic experience to turn map patterns into actionable farm decisions
TASK 09
Recommend best crop varieties or seeding rates for specific field areas, based on analysis of geospatial data.
AI DOES
Processes soil maps, yield history, and satellite data to flag variety options and rate ranges
YOU DO
Blend local crop knowledge, farmer preferences, and on-the-ground observations into the final recommendation
TASK 10
Analyze remote sensing imagery to identify relationships between soil quality, crop canopy densities, light reflectance, and weather history.
AI DOES
Processes multispectral images, flags anomalies, and finds correlations across soil, canopy, and weather datasets
YOU DO
Apply local field knowledge and judgment to interpret what the patterns actually mean for that specific farm
TASK 11
Identify areas in need of pesticide treatment by analyzing geospatial data to determine insect movement and damage patterns.
AI DOES
Scans maps and imagery to flag hotspots and predict pest spread using pattern recognition
YOU DO
Walk fields to confirm what the data shows and decide the safest, smartest treatment plan
TASK 12
Advise farmers on upgrading Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment to take advantage of newly installed advanced satellite technology.
AI DOES
Researches compatible GPS systems, summarizes new satellite features, and drafts upgrade comparison reports
YOU DO
Visit the farm, assess real field conditions, and guide the farmer through the right choice for their operation
TASK 13
Record data pertaining to experimentation, research, or animal care.
AI DOES
Auto-fills templates, checks for missing entries, and spots unusual data points
YOU DO
Physically observe conditions and decide what details actually matter
TASK 14
Contact equipment manufacturers for technical assistance, as needed.
AI DOES
Drafts emails, finds manufacturer contacts, and summarizes technical manuals
YOU DO
Describe the actual field problem and decide what fix makes sense
TASK 15
Program farm equipment, such as variable-rate planting equipment or pesticide sprayers, based on input from crop scouting and analysis of field condition variability.
AI DOES
Analyzes soil maps, yield data, and scouting reports to suggest variable-rate prescription maps
YOU DO
Verify equipment calibration, apply field judgment, and take responsibility for safe chemical application
TASK 16
Apply precision agriculture information to specifically reduce the negative environmental impacts of farming practices.
AI DOES
Analyzes field data, flags problem zones, and recommends targeted input rates to cut waste
YOU DO
Walk the fields, verify real conditions, and decide what to actually apply and where
TASK 17
Participate in efforts to advance precision agriculture technology, such as developing advanced weed identification or automated spot spraying systems.
AI DOES
Trains image recognition models, flags weeds in photos, and helps write code for sprayer logic
YOU DO
Test systems in real fields, tune hardware, and make safety calls
TASK 18
Demonstrate the applications of geospatial technology, such as Global Positioning System (GPS), geographic information systems (GIS), automatic tractor guidance systems, variable rate chemical input applicators, surveying equipment, or computer mapping software.
AI DOES
Generates training materials, explains GIS concepts, and processes map or sensor data to illustrate examples
YOU DO
Show up in the field and operate real equipment so learners can see it working live
TASK 19
Record environmental data from field samples of soil, air, water, or pests to monitor the effectiveness of integrated pest management (IPM) practices.
AI DOES
Organizes data logs, flags trends, and generates reports from entered environmental readings
YOU DO
Go into the field, collect real samples, and judge what the data means for your specific crops and conditions
TASK 20SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Prepare or present agricultural demonstrations.
AI DOES
Creates presentation slides and demo scripts
YOU DO
Connect with farmers and adapt live
About this analysis
70% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 21
Collect information about soil or field attributes, yield data, or field boundaries, using field data recorders and basic geographic information systems (GIS).
AI DOES
Processes raw field data, flags anomalies, and helps generate maps and reports from GIS inputs
YOU DO
Walk the fields, operate equipment, and make real-world judgment calls about what data to collect and where
TASK 22
Conduct studies of nitrogen or alternative fertilizer application methods, quantities, or timing to ensure satisfaction of crop needs and minimization of leaching, runoff, or denitrification.
AI DOES
Reviews research literature, suggests study designs, and analyzes fertilizer trial data to spot patterns
YOU DO
Get into the field, collect real soil and crop samples, and judge what the data means for your specific land
TASK 23
Supervise pest or weed control operations, including locating and identifying pests or weeds, selecting chemicals and application methods, or scheduling application.
AI DOES
Identifies pests from photos, suggests chemical options, and helps plan spray schedules
YOU DO
Walk the fields, read local conditions, and make the final call on timing and safety
TASK 24
Devise cultural methods or environmental controls for plants for which guidelines are sketchy or nonexistent.
AI DOES
Searches literature, flags similar species, and suggests trial protocols based on related plant families
YOU DO
Watch the plants closely and adjust based on what you see in the field
TASK 25
Determine the germination rates of seeds planted in specified areas.
AI DOES
Calculates germination percentages, flags low-rate zones, and compares results to expected benchmarks
YOU DO
Walk the field, count real sprouts, and judge what environmental factors caused any problems
TASK 26
Conduct insect or plant disease surveys.
AI DOES
Identifies insects or diseases from photos and helps log and analyze survey data
YOU DO
Walk the fields, collect real samples, and judge conditions firsthand
TASK 27
Examine animals or crop specimens to determine the presence of diseases or other problems.
AI DOES
Analyzes photos and symptom data to suggest possible diseases or pest problems
YOU DO
Physically inspect specimens up close and use hands-on judgment in the field
TASK 28
Assess comparative soil erosion from various planting or tillage systems, such as conservation tillage with mulch or ridge till systems, no-till systems, or conventional tillage systems with or without moldboard plows.
AI DOES
Pulls research on erosion rates, helps model predictions, and summarizes data comparisons across tillage systems
YOU DO
Go to the field, collect soil samples, and judge real site conditions with your own eyes and tools
TASK 29
Perform laboratory or field testing, using spectrometers, nitrogen determination apparatus, air samplers, centrifuges, or potential hydrogen (pH) meters to perform tests.
AI DOES
Helps log results, spot patterns in data, and flag unusual readings
YOU DO
Handle equipment, collect samples, and make real-time judgment calls in the field
TASK 30
Supervise or train agricultural technicians or farm laborers.
AI DOES
Drafts training materials, schedules, and onboarding guides
YOU DO
Show up in person, demonstrate tasks, and build trust with your team
TASK 31
Perform general nursery duties, such as propagating standard varieties of plant materials, collecting and germinating seeds, maintaining cuttings of plants, or controlling environmental conditions.
AI DOES
Monitors sensor data for temperature and humidity, suggests propagation schedules, and flags environmental issues
YOU DO
Keep showing up to physically handle plants, take cuttings, and make real-time judgment calls in the greenhouse
TASK 32
Prepare culture media, following standard procedures.
AI DOES
Looks up standard protocols and flags steps or safety notes
YOU DO
Physically measure, mix, and sterilize media with precision and judgment
TASK 33SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Document and maintain records of precision agriculture information.
AI DOES
Captures and organizes field data automatically
YOU DO
Verify accuracy and decide what matters
About this analysis
39% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 34
Prepare laboratory samples for analysis, following proper protocols to ensure that they will be stored, prepared, and disposed of efficiently and effectively.
AI DOES
Suggests protocols, generates labeling systems, and tracks sample records digitally
YOU DO
Physically collect, handle, and store samples following safety steps
TASK 35
Perform tests on seeds to evaluate seed viability.
AI DOES
Helps log results, spot patterns in germination data, and flag low-viability batches
YOU DO
Handle seeds physically, run lab tests, and judge real-world conditions
TASK 36SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Prepare data summaries, reports, or analyses that include results, charts, or graphs to document research findings and results.
AI DOES
Generates charts, graphs, and summary statistics
YOU DO
Choose what story the data tells
About this analysis
35% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 37SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Respond to general inquiries or requests from the public.
AI DOES
Drafts initial responses and pulls relevant information
YOU DO
Judge tone, context, and special needs
About this analysis
16% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 38SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Identify spatial coordinates, using remote sensing and Global Positioning System (GPS) data.
AI DOES
Processes satellite data and calculates rough coordinates
YOU DO
Verify accuracy and choose the right method
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium

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AT A GLANCE

Occupation: Agricultural Technicians
SOC code: 19-4012
Tasks reviewed: 38 of 48

How we assess

PAY & OUTLOOK

Compare pay by state

Median pay (national): $49,630 · BLS OEWS 2025
Median pay (Colorado): $47,020 · BLS OEWS 2025
Employed (national): 15,130
Employed in Colorado: 100
Job outlook: +4.3% by 2034 · ~2,900 openings/yr

Wages from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. National figures cover the United States. Job outlook is national.

How does this fit your work?

Earn a certificate in your job

Your job, task by task.

Use geospatial technology to develop soil sampling grids or identify sampling sites for testing characteristics such as nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium content, pH, or micronutrients.

Compare crop yield maps with maps of soil test data, chemical application patterns, or other information to develop site-specific crop management plans.

Analyze data from harvester monitors to develop yield maps.

Draw or read maps, such as soil, contour, or plat maps.

Prepare reports in graphical or tabular form, summarizing field productivity or profitability.

Analyze geospatial data to determine agricultural implications of factors such as soil quality, terrain, field productivity, fertilizers, or weather conditions.

Divide agricultural fields into georeferenced zones, based on soil characteristics and production potentials.

Create, layer, and analyze maps showing precision agricultural data, such as crop yields, soil characteristics, input applications, terrain, drainage patterns, or field management history.

Recommend best crop varieties or seeding rates for specific field areas, based on analysis of geospatial data.

Analyze remote sensing imagery to identify relationships between soil quality, crop canopy densities, light reflectance, and weather history.

Identify areas in need of pesticide treatment by analyzing geospatial data to determine insect movement and damage patterns.

Advise farmers on upgrading Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment to take advantage of newly installed advanced satellite technology.

Record data pertaining to experimentation, research, or animal care.

Contact equipment manufacturers for technical assistance, as needed.

Program farm equipment, such as variable-rate planting equipment or pesticide sprayers, based on input from crop scouting and analysis of field condition variability.

Apply precision agriculture information to specifically reduce the negative environmental impacts of farming practices.

Participate in efforts to advance precision agriculture technology, such as developing advanced weed identification or automated spot spraying systems.

Demonstrate the applications of geospatial technology, such as Global Positioning System (GPS), geographic information systems (GIS), automatic tractor guidance systems, variable rate chemical input applicators, surveying equipment, or computer mapping software.

Record environmental data from field samples of soil, air, water, or pests to monitor the effectiveness of integrated pest management (IPM) practices.

Prepare or present agricultural demonstrations.

Collect information about soil or field attributes, yield data, or field boundaries, using field data recorders and basic geographic information systems (GIS).

Conduct studies of nitrogen or alternative fertilizer application methods, quantities, or timing to ensure satisfaction of crop needs and minimization of leaching, runoff, or denitrification.

Supervise pest or weed control operations, including locating and identifying pests or weeds, selecting chemicals and application methods, or scheduling application.

Devise cultural methods or environmental controls for plants for which guidelines are sketchy or nonexistent.

Determine the germination rates of seeds planted in specified areas.

Conduct insect or plant disease surveys.

Examine animals or crop specimens to determine the presence of diseases or other problems.

Assess comparative soil erosion from various planting or tillage systems, such as conservation tillage with mulch or ridge till systems, no-till systems, or conventional tillage systems with or without moldboard plows.

Perform laboratory or field testing, using spectrometers, nitrogen determination apparatus, air samplers, centrifuges, or potential hydrogen (pH) meters to perform tests.

Supervise or train agricultural technicians or farm laborers.

Perform general nursery duties, such as propagating standard varieties of plant materials, collecting and germinating seeds, maintaining cuttings of plants, or controlling environmental conditions.

Prepare culture media, following standard procedures.

Document and maintain records of precision agriculture information.

Prepare laboratory samples for analysis, following proper protocols to ensure that they will be stored, prepared, and disposed of efficiently and effectively.

Perform tests on seeds to evaluate seed viability.

Prepare data summaries, reports, or analyses that include results, charts, or graphs to document research findings and results.

Respond to general inquiries or requests from the public.

Identify spatial coordinates, using remote sensing and Global Positioning System (GPS) data.

Practice AI.Use your judgment.

Practice AI.
Use your judgment.