Career in Agriculture and Agrochemicals: Top universities, CUET UG score, profiles, salary

Careers in agriculture and agrochemicals contribute to environmental stewardship by promoting sustainable farming practices, reducing chemical runoff, and minimizing the ecological footprint of agricultural activities.

TeamLease EdTech has recently unveiled interesting insights from its Career Outlook Report HY1 (January – June 2024), dynamic job market for freshers in the agriculture and agrochemicals sector, highlighting top job roles, preferred qualifications, and regional hiring trends.

1. Agrochemical Researcher: Agrochemical researchers play a pivotal role in developing innovative solutions for agricultural challenges. With a masters certification in agronomy, aspiring researchers can tap into opportunities across bustling cities including Delhi, Hyderabad and Coimbatore.

2. Agriculture Engineer: Agriculture engineers are in high demand, especially in tech-savvy cities like Bangalore, where 22% of the hiring intent lies. The certificate programme in agricultural engineering equips individuals to design and implement cutting-edge solutions in farming practices.

3. Field Biologist: Field biologists armed with a certification in GIS (Geographic Information System) are instrumental in studying ecosystems and biodiversity. With significant hiring percentages in cities like Mumbai, Gurugram and Indore, opportunities abound for those passionate about environmental conservation.

4. Field Officer: Field officers play a crucial role in ensuring the effective implementation of agrochemical practices. A certification in agrochemical management opens doors to opportunities in cities like Bangalore, Pune, and Gurugram.

5. Supply Chain Assistant: Supply chain assistants facilitate the seamless flow of agricultural products from farm to market. With a certified supply chain professional qualification, individuals can explore abundant opportunities in cities like Chennai, Ahmedabad and Chandigarh.

Aspiring professionals in the Agriculture and Agrochemicals sector have a myriad of opportunities awaiting them. Whether it’s devising innovative farming techniques or optimizing supply chain logistics, the sector offers a diverse range of roles for fresh talent to explore and thrive. 

Job trends for freshers in agriculture and agrochemicals.

Top universities offering courses in agriculture and agro-chemicals sectors

India

– Indian Agricultural Research Institute

– Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana

– GB Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Uttarakhand

– University of Agriculture Sciences, Bangalore

– College of Agriculture, Bengaluru at Gandhi Krishi Vigyana Kendra

– College of Agriculture, Mandya

– Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth

– College of Agriculture, Hassan

– College of Sericulture, Chintamani

– College of Agricultural Engineering, Gandhi Krishi Vigyana Kendra, Bengaluru

– College of Agriculture, Chamrajnagar

– Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai

Abroad

– University of California, Davis

– Cornell University

– Purdue University

– China Agricultural University (CAU)

– Laval University

Admission Criteria and Procedures

To be eligible for undergraduate programs in agriculture, candidates must have a minimum score of 50 per cent in their higher secondary school exams or an equivalent qualification. Those with intermediate studies in the agriculture field can also apply. Many universities accept scores from various entrance exams such as CUET, ICAR AIEEA, CG PAT, MHT CET, AGRICET, and KCET.

Salary Packages for Various Job Roles (Per Annum)

The salary packages for entry level jobs in the Agriculture and Agro Chemical domain ranges from three lakhs to 25 lakhs per annum depending on the specialisation. R&D specialists can attract packages ranging from eight to 25 lakhs while the field and supply chain specialists can get packages ranging from 3 to 12 lakhs. 

– Agrochemical Researcher: Rs 5.4 lakh to Rs 16 lakh

– Agriculture Engineer: Rs 0.3 lakh to Rs 18.7 lakh

– Field Biologist: Rs 2 lakh to Rs 8.2 lakh

– Field Officer: Rs 2 lakhs to Rs 4.2 lakh

– Supply Chain Assistant: Rs 1.1 lakh to Rs 8 lakh

(The author is the COO and head of employability, TeamLease Edtech)