Role overview
Agricultural and Agritech Technicians (ANZSCO 311112) provide technical support and services to improve agricultural production and implement technology solutions in farming operations. These professionals work across both traditional agricultural settings and modern technology-driven environments, bridging the gap between agricultural science and practical farming applications. In Australia, they support the agricultural sector's transition toward more efficient, sustainable, and data-informed practices through the implementation of precision agriculture technologies, soil and crop testing, and equipment maintenance.
The classification is maintained by the Australian Bureau of Statistics as part of the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO), which is commonly referenced in migration, employment, and workforce planning contexts despite being a legacy system. Professionals in this role may work for agricultural consulting firms, research organizations, large farming enterprises, or technology providers serving the agricultural sector.
Key tasks in practice
While ANZSCO does not provide specific task details for this occupation, typical responsibilities based on industry practice and specialisations include:
- Installing, calibrating, and maintaining precision agriculture equipment such as GPS guidance systems, yield monitors, and soil sensors
- Collecting and analyzing soil, water, plant, and animal tissue samples for laboratory testing and quality assessment
- Providing technical support for agricultural software platforms and data management systems used in farm operations
- Assisting with the implementation of irrigation systems, climate control technologies, and automated feeding systems
- Conducting field trials and demonstrations of new agricultural technologies and practices
- Maintaining records of technical operations, equipment performance, and agricultural data collection
Skill level explanation
ANZSCO assigns Skill Level 2 to this occupation, indicating it typically requires an AQF Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma, or at least three years of relevant experience. In the Australian context, this means most positions require post-secondary vocational education rather than university degrees.
Many technicians complete qualifications through TAFE or registered training organizations in areas such as agriculture, agricultural science, or agricultural technology. Some roles may require additional certifications for operating specialized equipment or handling agricultural chemicals. The skill level classification is used in various Australian contexts including migration assessments, workforce planning, and some industry registration schemes.
Industry context
Agricultural and Agritech Technicians typically work in industries classified under ANZSIC codes including Agricultural Science and Biotechnology Services (6925), Other Agriculture (0529), and Scientific Research Services (6910). They are employed across diverse settings from traditional broadacre farming to high-tech controlled environment agriculture.
In Australia, employment opportunities exist with agricultural consulting firms, research organizations (including CSIRO and state agriculture departments), large corporate farming enterprises, agricultural technology companies, and equipment manufacturers. The growing adoption of precision agriculture and digital farming technologies has increased demand for technicians with both agricultural knowledge and technical skills across Australian farming regions.