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Career Profile

Agricultural engineer

Agricultural engineers design and improve farming systems, equipment and technologies to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Average weekly salary
$2502
Future demand
Strong
Most common education level
Bachelor degree

What does an agricultural engineer do?

Agricultural engineers look for ways to improve farming practices and often focus on sustainability and safety. By analysing operations and considering new technologies, an agricultural engineer will help farmers to improve land use, conserve resources, and increase yields. Working in this profession you could be involved in processing agricultural products, production facilities, designing equipment, waste management, worker safety, agribusiness and more. Your workplace will likely be a mix of indoors and in the field and your workload will probably be influenced by the weather and season.

Is a career in agricultural engineering right for me?

Beyond being a qualified engineer, if you want to work in agricultural engineering or agribusiness, it’s helpful to have attributes and skills including:

Communication
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
Teamwork
An ability to work effectively and collaborate with a range of stakeholders.
Industry knowledge
A sound awareness and understanding of industry and trends.
Adaptability
An ability to manage change positively and perform effectively in changing environments.
Digital and technical capability
Proficiency in using technology, digital tools, and relevant software.

Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.

Workplace readiness
The ability to work effectively in demanding, practical, or physically challenging environments.

How to become an agricultural engineer

To become an agricultural engineer, you will typically need a bachelor’s degree in engineering with a major in agricultural engineering or a related field. Every journey is individual and there are several paths you could take to become an agricultural engineer. Here is just one path you could take:

  1. Complete an accredited engineering degree in agricultural engineering or a related field.
  2. Develop technical skills in agricultural systems, machinery, infrastructure and technology.
  3. Gain practical experience through internships, placements or graduate engineering roles.
  4. Apply for professional membership or registration through organisations such as Engineers Australia to support your career development.
  5. Pursue an agricultural engineer role, designing and implementing engineering solutions for the agriculture industry.

Accreditation and qualifications

91²Ö¿â's Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) degree is provisionally accredited by . As a graduate, you will be eligible to apply for Graduate membership at the Professional Engineer level.

How long does it take to become an agricultural engineer? 

The time it takes to become an agricultural engineer can vary depending on factors such as your educational background, training requirements, and employment opportunities.

At 91²Ö¿â, you can study a bachelor’s degree in engineering, majoring in agricultural engineering, which typically requires a minimum of 3 years of full-time study.

Postgraduate degrees, such as a master (2 years of full-time study) or a graduate diploma (6 months of full-time study), can extend your study period, and can also enhance and extend your expertise and career opportunities in the field. Some students also choose to study part-time, which increases the time it takes to finish the required courses. 

Start your journey with 91²Ö¿â

Take the first step towards a career in agricultural engineering with a 91²Ö¿â degree and learn how to apply engineering principles to solve real-world challenges in agriculture.

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
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Engineering degrees
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Responsibilities and work settings

Day-to-day responsibilities

Studying operating requirements for a variety of agricultural machinery, structures, and equipment, and engaging in research and development work to improve and innovate.

Advising employers, associates, or clients on agricultural engineering matters and consulting with other specialists to create integrated and comprehensive solutions.

Designing machinery, structures, and equipment, and preparing working drawings and other specifications.

Supervising the construction or manufacture, and installation of structures and equipment.

Where you might work

Agricultural and agribusiness organisations

Engineering consultancies

Environmental and sustainability organisations

Government agencies, departments and councils

Research institutes and research centres

Mining and resources companies

Agricultural engineer FAQs

The average salary of an agricultural engineer in Australia varies based on factors such as location, experience, and workplace setting. Refer to the salary information on this page for further details.

The demand for agricultural engineers is expected to remain very strong. As the world increasingly focuses on sustainable agriculture, agricultural engineers are at the forefront of designing and implementing practices that support a progressive and sustainable future. Their expertise is crucial in ensuring efficient water use, especially in arid regions and places facing water scarcity. Agricultural engineers are also increasingly involved in developing strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change by designing resilient agricultural systems that can withstand extreme weather conditions.

Career opportunities in agricultural engineering include:

  • design engineer
  • project manager
  • research scientist
  • environmental consultant
  • technical advisor.

Agricultural engineers often also pursue careers in manufacturing, professional, scientific, and technical services as well. 

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Disclaimer: 91²Ö¿â’s Career Finder is a guide only. While reasonable care is taken to ensure accuracy, career information may change over time. Career statistics are sourced from and . © Commonwealth of Australia. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. Salary figures listed on this page are in Australian Dollars (AUD).