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Agricultural Technicians

SOC 19-4012.00Job Zone 3 · Medium Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers agricultural technicians working across field crop production, animal care, and applied agronomic research environments in medium-scale farm, experimental station, and commercial agriculture settings.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Farm machinery operation — identify and safely start tractors, plows, and mowers under direct supervisor guidance on a working farm.
  2. Land preparation tasks — perform basic tilling, discing, and leveling activities following established protocols on a supervised field site.
  3. Crop production duties — carry out assigned hoeing, weeding, and pruning activities under direct instruction during growing season operations.
  4. Animal and crop samples — collect field specimens using standard procedures under technician supervision for laboratory submission.
  5. Laboratory and field equipment — assist in setting up instruments and test stations according to a checklist before supervised site testing.
  6. Data recording — enter observation notes and basic experimental measurements into a spreadsheet or database template during routine trials.
  7. Agricultural facilities — clean and perform minor upkeep on tools and equipment following safety and sanitation checklists after daily use.
  8. Disease and pest recognition — identify common visual indicators of crop diseases or pest damage by referencing field identification guides on-site.
  9. Reading comprehension — interpret written work orders, safety data sheets, and equipment manuals to complete assigned daily tasks correctly.
  10. Time management — organize personal daily task sequences under supervisor direction to meet scheduled crop production or research deadlines.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Farm machinery operation — independently operate and maneuver tractors, sprayers, and balers across varied field conditions with reduced oversight.
  2. Land preparation — select and apply appropriate plowing, contouring, or leveling techniques for different soil types and crop rotation plans.
  3. Crop production management — execute a full seasonal cycle of tilling, pruning, and harvesting activities with minimal direct supervision on mid-scale operations.
  4. Sample collection and handling — apply correct sampling protocols for both animal and plant specimens, maintaining chain-of-custody documentation for research records.
  5. Equipment setup and calibration — configure laboratory and field testing instruments to project specifications and verify calibration before data collection begins.
  6. Experimental data recording — compile structured field and lab datasets using database software, ensuring accuracy and completeness for researcher review.
  7. Facility and equipment maintenance — diagnose minor mechanical faults in agricultural tools and schedule or perform repairs to maintain operational readiness.
  8. Specimen examination — assess crop and animal samples for signs of disease, nutritional deficiency, or environmental stress, flagging anomalies for senior review.
  9. GIS and mobile tools — use geographic information system and mobile location-based software to map field zones and track agronomic conditions across a farm.
  10. Coordination and communication — liaise with research staff and equipment operators to align daily field schedules and resolve routine workflow conflicts.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Complex machinery operations — plan and oversee multi-machine field operations including combines, earthmoving equipment, and trucks across large or varied agricultural sites.
  2. Advanced land preparation — design and execute precision land-contouring and drainage plans to optimize soil conditions for specialty crops or vineyards.
  3. Full-cycle crop production — autonomously manage all crop production phases from germination through harvest, adjusting practices in response to non-routine environmental conditions.
  4. Diagnostic specimen analysis — independently examine animal and crop specimens to identify diseases, pathogens, or pest infestations and recommend evidence-based intervention strategies.
  5. Research protocol execution — implement multi-variable field and lab experiments, ensuring data integrity and adapting methodology when unanticipated conditions arise.
  6. Integrated data management — build and maintain ERP and database systems that consolidate experimental, production, and animal care records for cross-functional analysis.
  7. Equipment reliability programs — develop preventive maintenance schedules for the full fleet of agricultural machinery, reducing downtime and ensuring safety compliance.
  8. Critical analysis and reporting — synthesize field and laboratory findings into written technical reports and presentations for research teams and agricultural stakeholders.
  9. Active learning and technology adoption — evaluate and integrate emerging precision-agriculture technologies, including updated GIS platforms and sensor tools, into existing field operations.
  10. Judgment under uncertainty — apply inductive and deductive reasoning to resolve ambiguous crop health or equipment scenarios with limited supervisor input on active research sites.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Organizational operations strategy — lead the planning and coordination of all agricultural research and production operations across multiple field sites and seasonal cycles.
  2. Technical program development — design multi-year agronomic research programs, defining experimental protocols, resource requirements, and success metrics for institutional outcomes.
  3. Workforce development — mentor and train cohorts of emerging and developing technicians, building team competency in crop science, machinery operation, and data management.
  4. Cross-functional leadership — direct collaboration between research scientists, farm managers, and external partners to align field operations with broader organizational goals.
  5. Quality and safety governance — establish and enforce facility safety standards, equipment maintenance policies, and data integrity protocols across the entire operation.
  6. Resource and budget management — oversee procurement of machinery, laboratory supplies, and technology tools, optimizing expenditure within administrative and ERP frameworks.
  7. Knowledge management — author standard operating procedures, technical manuals, and training curricula that codify best practices for agricultural technician roles organization-wide.
  8. Strategic technology integration — evaluate and champion adoption of advanced precision-agriculture platforms, GIS systems, and automation tools at the enterprise level.
  9. Stakeholder communication — present research findings, production outcomes, and program recommendations to executive leadership, funding bodies, and regulatory agencies.
  10. Innovation and continuous improvement — identify systemic inefficiencies in crop production or research workflows and lead evidence-based initiatives that elevate organizational performance.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-assisted record entry — uses an AI tool to transcribe and organize field notes on crop yields, soil conditions, and experimental treatments into structured logs, reducing manual data-entry errors Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Research summarization — queries an AI assistant to digest agronomic literature, pest management guidelines, and equipment manuals, then applies the synthesized findings to on-farm decisions under supervisor review Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Maintenance report drafting — delegates the initial write-up of equipment inspection reports and repair logs to an AI tool, then reviews and corrects the output against direct field observation before submission Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Experimental data interpretation — directs an AI assistant to identify patterns across multi-season trial records and flag statistical anomalies, while the technician independently validates findings against physical crop observations Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Regulatory compliance cross-check — submits pesticide application records and chemical use logs to an AI tool for gap analysis against current label requirements, then applies professional judgment to resolve any flagged discrepancies Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Monitoring-alert triage — configures AI-driven sensor dashboards to surface threshold breaches in soil moisture, temperature, or nutrient levels, and uses the prioritized alerts to schedule timely field interventions WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Autonomous workflow scoping — evaluates which agricultural research sub-tasks (data aggregation, literature synthesis, report generation) are suitable for near-full AI execution versus those requiring hands-on field expertise, and structures team workflows accordingly Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Precision agriculture protocol design — integrates AI-generated agronomic recommendations with ground-truth field data to co-author standardized crop production protocols, retaining final authorship and accountability for all procedural decisions Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. AI output quality assurance — audits AI-produced experimental summaries and predictive yield models for domain accuracy, correcting systematic errors introduced by limited agronomic context before results inform research conclusions Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 21
Augment share: 2.1%
Time saved: 97.6%
AI autonomy: 2.05
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Reading Comprehension
Score: 45.5 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Data Science and Analysis
data_science_and_analysis
Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication10 statements
Emerging
  1. Field observation notes — records basic crop or animal observations using standard terminology in lab or field notebooks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment status reporting — conveys machinery operational issues to supervisors using simple, accurate descriptions of symptoms or failures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Research data communication — summarizes experimentation records and sample collection results in structured written reports for technical review Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer instruction — explains crop production procedures or equipment setup steps to new team members using clear, sequential language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Stakeholder updates — communicates field or laboratory findings to agronomists or researchers through verbal briefings with relevant supporting data Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Technical documentation — authors detailed field experiment logs, sample collection protocols, and maintenance records that meet research-grade accuracy standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-functional reporting — translates crop disease examination findings or soil test results into accessible summaries for both technical and non-technical audiences Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Safety communication — delivers clear pre-operation briefings on chemical spraying protocols, equipment hazards, and PPE requirements to field crews O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Research dissemination — presents multi-season experimental data and agricultural trial outcomes to research teams or extension audiences using structured, evidence-based narratives Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Instructional content development — authors training materials and standard operating procedures for field and lab operations that serve as authoritative references across the organization Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
2Leadership9 statements
Emerging
  1. Task ownership — completes assigned crop production or equipment maintenance duties without requiring repeated direction, demonstrating personal accountability for outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Crew awareness — observes how experienced technicians coordinate field teams during planting or harvest operations and identifies effective practices Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Work crew coordination — directs small groups of field workers through daily crop production tasks such as tilling, pruning, or harvesting using clear task assignments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Junior technician mentorship — guides newer staff through standard sample collection or lab equipment setup procedures, providing hands-on demonstration and correction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Field operation leadership — manages daily agricultural research site activities, allocating equipment, personnel, and materials to meet experimental timelines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety culture stewardship — enforces compliance with machinery operation protocols and chemical handling standards, holding team members accountable to established procedures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Initiative in problem-solving — identifies deteriorating crop conditions or equipment failures proactively and mobilizes appropriate response without waiting for supervisor direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Program-level technical leadership — oversees multi-site field research operations, coordinating technician teams, equipment fleets, and seasonal production schedules across concurrent trials Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Organizational capability building — develops training frameworks for agricultural technician onboarding that accelerate competency in field research, equipment operation, and data collection Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Learning gap recognition — identifies personal knowledge deficiencies in crop biology or machinery operation and seeks targeted guidance from supervisors or technical manuals Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Task reflection — reviews completed sample collection or field preparation work against stated protocols to identify errors or inefficiencies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Procedural self-monitoring — tracks personal accuracy in recording experimental data and adjusts note-taking habits when inconsistencies between field observations and records are detected Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill prioritization — assesses which technical competencies require development given current research project demands and allocates personal study or practice time accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Experimental learning transfer — draws on lessons from previous growing seasons or field trials to anticipate problems in current research setups and adjusts methodology proactively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Error analysis — examines causes of failed equipment operation, inaccurate sample labeling, or crop assessment mistakes and implements targeted corrections to prevent recurrence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cognitive strategy modeling — demonstrates to junior technicians how to self-monitor data quality, recognize procedural drift, and recalibrate during complex multi-variable field experiments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Continuous improvement planning — conducts structured end-of-season reviews of personal and team technical performance, setting measurable learning objectives for subsequent research cycles Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking9 statements
Emerging
  1. Observation-based inference — distinguishes between normal and abnormal crop or animal conditions during routine examinations using provided diagnostic criteria Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Data validity checking — reviews recorded experimental measurements for obvious anomalies or entry errors before submitting to research supervisors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Disease differential assessment — evaluates multiple potential causes of observed crop damage or animal symptoms using biological and chemical knowledge to narrow diagnostic conclusions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment performance analysis — compares machinery output against expected specifications to determine whether performance issues reflect operator error, mechanical failure, or environmental factors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Experimental design critique — evaluates field or laboratory research setups for methodological weaknesses, recommending adjustments to sampling strategies or control conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Integrated risk judgment — synthesizes weather data, soil conditions, crop phenology, and pest pressure information to assess risk levels and recommend adjusted field management actions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Chemical application decision-making — determines appropriate pesticide or fertilizer formulations, application rates, and timing based on crop requirements, regulatory constraints, and observed field conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Multi-variable research interpretation — analyzes complex, multi-season experimental datasets to identify patterns, confounding variables, and statistically meaningful differences in agricultural trial outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Protocol evaluation — critically reviews existing field research procedures for logical flaws or outdated practices and proposes evidence-based revisions that improve experimental validity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration9 statements
Emerging
  1. Crew participation — contributes reliably to shared field tasks such as crop harvesting, irrigation setup, or equipment cleaning alongside fellow technicians Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Information sharing — passes accurate field observations or equipment status updates to colleagues and supervisors to support coordinated team decision-making Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Cross-disciplinary coordination — works alongside agronomists, biologists, and chemists to execute research protocols that require integrated expertise across multiple scientific domains Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Shared equipment stewardship — coordinates machinery scheduling and maintenance responsibilities with team members to ensure operational readiness across simultaneous field operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Research team integration — participates actively in experimental planning meetings, contributing field-level insight on crop conditions, equipment capabilities, and logistical constraints Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict navigation — resolves disagreements over field task prioritization or resource allocation through respectful dialogue focused on research objectives and safety requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Collaborative data integrity — coordinates with lab and field team members to ensure consistent sample labeling, chain-of-custody documentation, and data entry standards across shared research projects Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Inter-institutional collaboration — serves as the field operations liaison between research institutions, extension services, or agricultural partners, aligning protocols and sharing findings across organizational boundaries Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Team capability amplification — identifies complementary strengths among technicians and structures collaborative field assignments to leverage individual expertise, improving overall research output quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character9 statements
Emerging
  1. Data honesty — records field observations and sample results accurately without alteration, even when outcomes deviate from expected experimental parameters Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Regulatory compliance — follows established chemical handling, equipment operation, and waste disposal regulations as a baseline professional standard Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Accountability in error reporting — discloses data recording mistakes, equipment damage, or procedural deviations promptly and proposes corrective actions rather than concealing incidents Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Animal welfare responsibility — handles crop or animal specimens with care consistent with established ethical research standards, regardless of direct supervision Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Research integrity maintenance — ensures all experimental records, sample collection logs, and laboratory results are traceable, reproducible, and free from selective reporting or fabrication Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional reliability — fulfills seasonal field commitments, equipment maintenance schedules, and data submission deadlines consistently, honoring obligations to research team timelines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Environmental stewardship — applies pesticides, fertilizers, and irrigation resources at prescribed rates, resisting pressure to exceed safe application levels to avoid environmental harm Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical culture modeling — establishes and sustains a team environment where data integrity, safety compliance, and honest reporting are treated as non-negotiable professional standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Organizational trust building — earns and maintains the confidence of research supervisors and institutional partners through consistent demonstration of accuracy, reliability, and transparent communication over extended project cycles Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity9 statements
Emerging
  1. Improvised problem-solving — adapts available field materials or tools to address minor equipment failures or crop care needs when standard resources are temporarily unavailable Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Observation novelty — notices unexpected patterns in crop growth or animal behavior during routine monitoring and flags them as potentially meaningful for research consideration Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Experimental variation suggestion — proposes modified sampling approaches or alternative test plot configurations that may improve data quality or experimental coverage Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Maintenance innovation — develops field-expedient repair or improvised calibration solutions for agricultural equipment that sustain operational continuity within safety constraints Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Field trial design contribution — generates creative hypotheses or comparative treatment ideas for crop production research that address practical agronomic questions with scientific rigor Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Efficiency innovation — redesigns field data collection workflows or sample processing sequences to reduce redundancy and improve throughput without compromising accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Adaptive pest management ideation — proposes novel integrated pest management combinations or application timing strategies based on observed pest behavior and crop development patterns Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Research methodology invention — develops original field experiment designs or sensing and monitoring approaches that expand the technical capability of the agricultural research program Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-domain solution transfer — applies principles from adjacent scientific fields such as ecology, soil science, or mechanical engineering to generate non-obvious solutions to persistent agricultural production challenges Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset9 statements
Emerging
  1. Technology adoption willingness — engages with unfamiliar farm machinery or laboratory instruments with openness, treating initial errors as necessary steps in skill acquisition Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback receptivity — accepts supervisory correction on data recording or crop examination techniques without defensiveness, applying suggested changes immediately Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill extension — voluntarily pursues additional cross-training in crop production, animal science, or soil chemistry to broaden technical utility across the research operation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Setback reframing — treats equipment breakdowns, crop failures, or experimental contamination events as diagnostic opportunities that deepen understanding of agricultural systems Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Deliberate practice — seeks progressively more challenging field assignments such as complex irrigation troubleshooting or multi-treatment experimental setups to accelerate technical mastery Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Knowledge currency maintenance — actively monitors developments in agricultural chemistry, crop science, and precision farming technology, integrating relevant advances into daily practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Constructive self-challenge — sets measurable personal performance targets for data accuracy, equipment operation efficiency, and field observation quality each growing season Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Learning culture cultivation — establishes team norms that reward skill development, knowledge sharing, and honest after-action review of field research outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mentor-learner reciprocity — maintains intellectual humility by learning from junior technicians who possess specialized knowledge in emerging areas such as drone monitoring or precision soil sensing Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness9 statements
Emerging
  1. Hazard attentiveness — maintains focused awareness of environmental and mechanical hazards during equipment operation and chemical application tasks, reducing reactionary errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Present-moment observation — gives undivided attention to crop or animal specimens during examination, noticing subtle symptoms that inattentive observation would miss Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Operational pacing — monitors personal fatigue and cognitive load during extended field days and adjusts work pace to sustain data collection accuracy through full shifts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional regulation under pressure — manages frustration during equipment malfunctions or crop emergencies, maintaining procedural discipline rather than reacting impulsively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Intentional data collection — executes each sample collection or field measurement with deliberate attention to protocol adherence, resisting the urge to rush during high-volume harvest periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Stress-aware decision-making — recognizes when time pressure or adverse weather conditions are compromising judgment quality in field operations and pauses to reassess before proceeding Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Sensory attunement — uses systematic visual, olfactory, and tactile observation during crop and soil assessments to detect conditions that instrumentation alone may not capture Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Team attentiveness modeling — coaches technicians to maintain situational awareness during complex multi-task field operations, preventing the cognitive tunneling that leads to safety incidents or data errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Reflective practice integration — builds structured pause points into research workflows where the team collectively reviews what is being observed in the field before committing to experimental adjustments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude9 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical persistence — completes demanding crop production tasks such as weeding, harvesting, or land preparation under adverse weather or terrain conditions without abandoning assigned duties Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Uncertainty tolerance — continues systematic data collection and observation routines when experimental outcomes are ambiguous or field conditions are unpredictable Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Equipment adversity response — maintains composure and follows diagnostic protocols when critical farm machinery fails mid-operation, working methodically toward restoration Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Seasonal resilience — sustains high-quality field performance across the full duration of intensive growing seasons, including periods of extreme heat, pest pressure, or crop loss Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Research setback navigation — rebuilds experimental protocols and re-collects compromised samples after events such as contamination, equipment failure, or extreme weather destroy portions of a field trial Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Sustained precision under fatigue — maintains accurate data recording and careful specimen handling standards during the final hours of multi-day harvest or planting operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Risk acceptance in fieldwork — executes necessary but physically demanding or hazardous field tasks such as confined space entry for soil sampling or operation of heavy earthmoving equipment with disciplined courage Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Organizational resilience leadership — guides the research team through major operational disruptions such as drought, flooding, or disease outbreak, maintaining focus on research continuity and crew morale Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Long-horizon perseverance — sustains commitment to multi-year agricultural research programs through seasons of poor results, funding uncertainty, and incremental progress, modeling professional tenacity for junior staff Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Acidity Tester · Agricultural Assistant · Agricultural Equipment Technician · Agricultural Research Technician (Agricultural Research Tech) · Agricultural Research Technologist · Agricultural Service Technician · Agricultural Specialist · Agricultural Technician (Agricultural Tech) · Agriculture Assistant · Agriculture Field Technician (Agriculture Field Tech) · Agriculture Research Lab Assistant (Agriculture Research Laboratory Assistant) · Agriculture Technician (Agriculture Tech)
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Reading ComprehensionActive ListeningCritical ThinkingActive LearningMonitoringWritingJudgment and Decision MakingInstructingOperations MonitoringTime ManagementCoordinationSpeaking
Knowledge domains
Food ProductionBiologyChemistryMechanicalMathematicsAdministration and Management
Abilities
Problem SensitivityOral ComprehensionOral ExpressionNear VisionWritten ComprehensionWritten ExpressionDeductive ReasoningInformation OrderingInductive ReasoningVisual Color Discrimination
Work styles
DependabilityAttention to DetailPerseveranceIntegrityAchievement OrientationCautiousness
Technology
Desktop publishing softwareElectronic mail softwareGeographic information systemMobile location based services softwareData base user interface and query softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwarePresentation softwareWord processing softwareEnterprise resource planning ERP software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Prepare land for cultivated crops, orchards, or vineyards by plowing, discing, leveling, or contouring.
  2. Operate farm machinery, including tractors, plows, mowers, combines, balers, sprayers, earthmoving equipment, or trucks.
  3. Record data pertaining to experimentation, research, or animal care.
  4. Maintain or repair agricultural facilities, equipment, or tools to ensure operational readiness, safety, and cleanliness.
  5. Perform crop production duties, such as tilling, hoeing, pruning, weeding, or harvesting crops.
  6. Collect animal or crop samples.
  7. Examine animals or crop specimens to determine the presence of diseases or other problems.
  8. Set up laboratory or field equipment as required for site testing.
CIP education codes
01.000001.090101.090501.090701.110101.110201.120101.139926.0101

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.