Potential earnings
£44,004.22
Farmers and related occupations cultivate arable crops, fruits and trees, and raise cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry and other livestock for consumption.
Main tasks
- Ensures good environmental practice is observed in all tasks.
- Maintains records of production, finance and breeding.
- Arranges for the sale of crops, livestock and other farm produce.
- Operates and maintains farm machinery such as combine harvesters, straw balers, milking machines and tractors.
- Undertakes farm maintenance tasks such as fencing, hedging, cleaning and building maintenance.
- Plants, propagates, sprays, fertilises and harvests field crops.
- Feeds and waters animals, takes responsibility for livestock health and welfare, treats minor ailments and calls vet if necessary.
Source: Office for National Statistics.
Salary and earnings
Average earnings
£27,951.54
Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).
Skills & knowledge
The top 5 most important skills and knowledge requirements relevant to this career.
Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Mathematics
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Learning Strategies
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modelling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Food Production
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Sales and Marketing
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
What course level do I need to study?
The level of study required will vary with each job, sector and company. The table below shows the level of study achieved by those currently working in this career choice.
Educational requirements: Level 2 NVQ; GCSE at grades A*-C
Source: Office for National Statistics.
| Level of study | Percentage achieved |
|---|---|
| Level 0 | 18% |
| Level 1 | 6% |
| Level 2 | 26% |
| Level 3 | 23% |
| Level 4-5 (Higher Education) | 12% |
| Level 6 (Bachelors) | 10% |
| Level 7 (Masters or equivalent) | 4% |
| Level 8 (Doctorate) | 0% |
Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS) data.
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Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.
