Agricultural Information Specialist
Agricultural information specialists are reporters who research and write about topics such as food safety, trade policy, and environmental sustainability. They can work for print and broadcast media outlets, public relations firms, or government agencies.
Agricultural information specialists usually work in the field, conducting interviews and preparing pieces for submission and publication. This work is typically deadline-oriented. Reporters can be required to shift gears and re-prioritize quickly in light of breaking news. Long hours and night and weekend work might be required. Depending on the area of employment, jobs in this field are predicted to be extremely competitive because of a decline in the number of publishing outlets.
Career Requirements
| Degree Level | Bachelor's degree |
| Degree Field | Journalism, communications, agricultural communication |
| Experience | Entry-level with bachelor's degree; college internship provides work experience sought by employers |
| Key Skills | Communication skills, interpersonal skills, persistence, decision-making, problem-solving, critical-thinking, and reasoning abilities; capable of using video equipment and recorders; familiarity with Web editing software for social media networking sites |
| Salary (2016) | $37,596 per year (median for all reporters) |
Sources: O*NET Online, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Payscale.com, Washington State University
Steps for Agricultural Information
What steps do I need to take to become an agricultural information specialist?
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree
Many land grant universities have agricultural colleges that offer bachelor's degree programs in agricultural communications or agricultural journalism. These programs can prepare graduates for entry-level employment as agricultural information specialists. Students take courses in animal science and agribusiness as well as agricultural communication, news writing, and media law. Some schools also allow students to choose an area of specialization or emphasis in print media, broadcast reporting, advertising, or public relations.
To increase your opportunities for success, get hands-on experience. Students can hone their skills by working for their school's newspaper or agricultural magazine. Internship opportunities may also be available to students interested in reporting for livestock shows or rodeos. They might work for schools' extension services as well. Students interested in completing an internship during the summer months can apply for positions available through some professional organizations.
It's also a good idea to join professional organizations. Agricultural information specialists can take advantage of professional organizations offering membership opportunities, career development materials, and networking resources. These include the American Agricultural Editors' Association (AAEA), the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ), and the National Association of Farm Broadcasters (NAFB).
Step 2: Land Your First Job
Many agricultural information specialists work for government agencies at the state, local, and federal levels. They can also find jobs with journals, public relations firms, or professional associations.
Step 3: Consider a Master's Degree
Although not as common as bachelor's degree programs in this field, graduate agricultural communications programs are available to professionals interested in advancing their careers or conducting research. Course topics discuss communication theories or the roles of public opinion in agricultural policy.
Agricultural information specialists are reporters who cover agricultural topics. They have bachelor's degrees along with professional abilities in communications and the technology used in all forms of communication, and they earn a median annual salary of $37,596.
