To work as a precision agriculture technician, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• complete a certificate or an associate degree; and
• complete moderate-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

Most people prepare for this occupation by getting a certificate or associate degree in this field. Certificates typically take one year to complete while associate degrees usually take two. Many community colleges and vocational schools offer one-year programs in this field.

Because this degree combines two distinct fields, it is becoming more common for schools to offer bachelor's degrees in precision agriculture.

Work experience

Working in jobs that give you practical experience in the areas you wish to work is good background for this occupation. The fields of civil engineering and geography are very helpful as they focus on use of the Geographic Information Software (GIS). Work on a farm or ranch setting is helpful, too.

On-the-job training

As a new technician, you perform routine tasks while closely supervised by an experienced technician or agricultural engineer. Training typically lasts several months and may take up to a year. As you gain experience, you work on tasks that are more difficult.