How to Be Agricultural Production Manager - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 1, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Agricultural Production Managers are responsible for the efficient and profitable production of crops and livestock. They oversee the entire production process, from selecting the most appropriate seeds and feed, to managing the soil, irrigation, harvesting and animal care. Their efforts have a direct effect on the quantity and quality of the final products, as well as the cost of production.

By employing effective techniques such as crop rotation, soil fertility management and pest control, agricultural production managers can maximize yields while minimizing costs. Furthermore, they must ensure that all processes comply with regulations related to sustainability, food safety and animal welfare. The success of their work has an overall impact on the health of the economy, environment and communities.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelors Degree. The first step to becoming an agricultural production manager is to complete a bachelors degree program in agricultural science, business, or a related field. Many colleges and universities offer undergraduate degree programs in agricultural science and business, with concentrations in agricultural production management.
Gain Experience. To become an agricultural production manager, its important to gain experience in the industry. This can be done through internships, part-time jobs, volunteer work, or other opportunities.
Obtain a Certificate Program. Many employers prefer to hire agricultural production managers who have completed a certificate program in the field. These programs are typically offered at colleges and universities and are designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles of agricultural production management.
Become Licensed. Depending on the laws in the state where youre employed, you may be required to obtain a license or certification in order to become an agricultural production manager. Licensing requirements vary from state to state and may include passing an exam.
Develop Your Skills. The job of an agricultural production manager involves a variety of skills, including financial management, project management, problem solving, organizational leadership, and communication. Its important to develop these skills in order to be successful in the position.

Agricultural production managers play an important role in the success and sustainability of agricultural operations. To ensure reliable and qualified production, managers must have a comprehensive understanding of agricultural production processes, proper resource management, and efficient operations. They must also possess strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills to coordinate the processes of crop production, harvesting, and distribution.

In addition, having knowledge of agricultural technology and the ability to utilize new technologies for increased efficiency is essential. Finally, companies that wish to hire reliable and qualified managers must have an effective recruitment process in place to identify and select the most suitable candidates. With these criteria in place, agricultural production managers can be instrumental in helping to maintain a successful and sustainable production system.

You may want to check Agricultural Researcher, Agricultural Trade Representative, and Agricultural Engineer for alternative.

Job Description

Monitor crop production activities and develop strategies to increase yields.
Supervise field workers and ensure that all tasks are completed in a timely and efficient manner.
Monitor soil fertility, crop maturity, and water availability to optimize the health of crops.
Develop and implement crop rotation plans to maximize yields and minimize disease risks.
Monitor and adjust irrigation systems to ensure adequate water is available to crops.
Negotiate contracts with farmers, suppliers, and other stakeholders.
Develop budgets, forecast production costs, and review financial records.
Coordinate with sales and marketing staff to ensure crops meet customer demands.
Monitor and address pest infestations and other threats to crop health.
Identify and implement new technologies to improve crop production practices.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of agricultural practices and techniques.
Understanding of crop cycles, pest and disease management, fertilizer and soil management.
Knowledge of farm equipment and machinery maintenance and operation.
Ability to use data-driven decision-making to develop efficient production plans.
Ability to negotiate with suppliers, farmers and vendors.
Ability to manage staff and train personnel in agricultural production techniques.
Excellent organizational and communication skills.
Budgeting and financial management skills.
Proficiency in computer software, such as Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

The ability to effectively manage agricultural production is an essential skill for any successful agricultural production manager. The ability to efficiently and effectively manage resources such as soil, water, and crops is essential for producing high-quality crops in a timely manner. A good agricultural production manager should also have the ability to effectively manage personnel to ensure they are working efficiently and meeting production goals.

A strong understanding of the current market and trends in agriculture is also critical, as it allows the manager to make informed decisions about what crops should be grown and when. Finally, good organizational skills are essential for keeping track of production data, maintaining inventory, and ensuring that all tasks are completed on time and within budget. These skills are all necessary for an agricultural production manager to be successful in their role.

Agricultural Extension Agent, Agricultural Marketing Specialist, and Agricultural Economist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in agricultural production management?
What strategies do you use to ensure production goals are met?
How do you ensure quality standards are maintained in agricultural production?
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the agriculture industry today?
Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision that impacted production.
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and advancements in agricultural production?
What strategies do you use to manage people and resources within the production process?
What steps do you take to motivate and engage employees to reach production goals?
How do you handle complex issues that arise during the production process?
What strategies do you use to create cost-effective solutions for agricultural production?

Common Tools in Industry

Farm Management Software. Software designed to help farmers manage their agricultural operations, such as crop and livestock production, labor scheduling, and financial tracking. (eg: FarmLogs)
Crop Scouting App. A mobile app that allows farmers to track and monitor disease, insect and weed infestations, and other factors that can affect crop health. (eg: AgriSens)
Yield Monitoring Systems. Technology that uses sensors to measure and track crop yields in real-time. (eg: Agronomic Solutions)
Irrigation Scheduling Software. Software that helps farmers determine the best time to water crops based on current weather conditions and soil moisture levels. (eg: Agrivi)
Weather Forecasting Tools. Technology that allows farmers to view and analyze current and future weather conditions to plan their operations accordingly. (eg: RainMachine)
Livestock Tracking Systems. Tools that use RFID tags and other technologies to monitor the health and well-being of livestock. (eg: Allflex)
Agricultural Supply Chain Management Software. Software designed to help farmers track and manage inventory, pricing, and other supply chain related tasks. (eg: Agribotix)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Agronomy
American Society for Horticultural Science
American Seed Trade Association
CropLife America
National Association of Conservation Districts
National Association of County Agricultural Agents
National Association of State Departments of Agriculture
National Farmers Union
National FFA Organization
US Department of Agriculture

We also have Agricultural Sales Representative, Agricultural Consultant, and Agricultural Loan Officer jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Agribusiness. A term used to describe the business of agricultural production, which includes farming, ranching, agro-forestry, and other related activities.
Farm Management. The practice of managing a farm, including its land, people, crops, inputs, and other resources.
Crop Planning. The practice of planning for and managing the planting, growth, harvest, and sale of crops.
Agronomy. The science and technology of soil management, crop production, and other related aspects of farming.
Soil Science. The study of the physical and chemical properties of soil, including its fertility and its ability to support plant growth.
Horticulture. The science and practice of cultivating plants, including fruit trees, vegetables, ornamentals, and turf grasses.
Animal Science. The study of animal biology and husbandry, including nutrition, health care, genetics, and management practices.
Marketing. The practice of advertising and selling agricultural products through various channels.
Food Safety. The practice of ensuring that food is safe to consume by preventing contamination and disease.
Regulatory Compliance. The practice of meeting government guidelines related to agricultural production and operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is an Agricultural Production Manager? A1: An Agricultural Production Manager is a professional responsible for managing the production of crops and livestock on a farm. Q2: What are the duties of an Agricultural Production Manager? A2: The duties of an Agricultural Production Manager include overseeing the planting, cultivating, harvesting, and marketing of crops and livestock; developing crop-management plans; budgeting and managing costs; and monitoring animal health. Q3: How much does an Agricultural Production Manager earn? A3: The median annual salary for an Agricultural Production Manager is approximately $63,000. Q4: What qualifications are required to become an Agricultural Production Manager? A4: To become an Agricultural Production Manager, one must typically have a bachelor's degree in an agricultural-related field, such as agribusiness or agricultural economics. Experience in the agricultural industry may also be required. Q5: What other skills are important for an Agricultural Production Manager? A5: Other important skills for an Agricultural Production Manager include strong organizational and communication skills, problem-solving skills, knowledge of farming techniques and technologies, and knowledge of safety regulations.