Sustainable Farm Manager
Agriculture & Farming
A program that focuses on agricultural principles and practices that, over the long term, enhance environmental quality, make efficient use of nonrenewable resources, integrate natural biological cycles and controls, and are economically viable and socially responsible; and that may prepare individuals to apply this knowledge to the solution of agricultural and environmental problems.
What Sustainable Farm Managers Do
A program that focuses on agricultural principles and practices that, over the long term, enhance environmental quality, make efficient use of nonrenewable resources, integrate natural biological cycles and controls, and are economically viable and socially responsible; and that may prepare individuals to apply this knowledge to the solution of agricultural and environmental problems.
Common Tasks
Agricultural Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
- 1Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences.
- 2Advise students on academic and vocational curricula and on career issues.
- 3Supervise undergraduate or graduate teaching, internship, and research work.
- 4Supervise laboratory sessions and field work and coordinate laboratory operations.
- 5Conduct research in a particular field of knowledge and publish findings in professional journals, books, or electronic media.
What You'll Learn
Types of Sustainable Farm Managers
Work Environment
Locations
- • Crop and livestock farms
- • Greenhouses and nurseries
- • Aquaculture facilities and fish hatcheries
- • Soil and conservation field sites
- • Universities and extension offices
Schedule
Schedules are often seasonal and weather-dependent, with early mornings and longer hours during planting, harvest, or fieldwork, while some research or teaching roles follow a more regular weekday schedule.
Physical Demands
Work commonly mixes office planning with field time that involves standing, walking, and handling tools or materials. Physical intensity is usually moderate, but can increase during peak seasons and outdoor site visits.
Salary & Job Outlook
National Employment: 963,000 jobs
Top Paying States
Why Demand May Grow
Demand may rise as farms and food companies adopt soil-health, water-conservation, and climate-smart practices to meet regulations and buyer requirements. Growth in organic and local food markets can also increase need for managers and specialists who can improve yields while reducing inputs.
Skills You'll Need
Pros & Cons
Pros
- • Work that supports environmental and community goals
- • Variety of settings (field, greenhouse, lab, office)
- • Transferable skills across farming, conservation, and research
- • Opportunities to lead teams and operations
- • Strong fit for people who like problem-solving outdoors
Cons
- • Weather and seasonal pressures can drive long or irregular hours
- • Income and job stability can depend on markets and yields
- • Outdoor work can be hot, cold, wet, or dusty
- • Regulatory and recordkeeping requirements can be heavy
- • Some roles require travel to farms or remote sites
Common Questions About the Sustainable Farm Manager Trade
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