farming and breeding associations,

universities and colleges. They also work as

advisors to individual ranchers and farmers.
Agronomists may be employed in the
following industries: Agriculture, Hunting
and Forestry; Public Administration and
Defense, Compulsory Social Security; and
Education.
Career Information Pamphlet

Series of 2011

C o s t of E d u c a ti o n * *

Agronomist*

A masters course for Agronomist ranges

approximately from P19,000 to P27,000 per
semester in private technical schools and
about P10,000 to P15,000 in public
institutions.

*
**

Images were downloaded from Google.com

Based on 2010-2011 rates

Department of Labor and Employment

Bureau of Local Employment
Manila, Philippines

Agronomist
An Agronomist studies the chemical
composition of soil, water and plant life, and
looks for ways to improve and increase the
worlds food supply, with healthy results.
The field is exciting because there are so
many differing views. Some Agronomists
advocate genetic enhancement and chemical
modification, while others are interested in
natural food production. Both sides have
their merits, and the scientists must learn to
work together to create a sound and
sustainable solution to the problems of soil
destruction as well as world hunger.

Investigates soils (origins, composition,

and toxicity);
Studies soil fertility and plant nutrient
levels;
Identifies degraded soils and develop
plans to improve them;
Develops improved soil management
practices for farmers and forestry
companies;
Develops waste management programs
for composting and farming; and

new

fertilizers,

Basic Educational Requirement

Agronomists have at least a masters degree in
Agriculture, Forestry, Biology, Environmental or
Earth Sciences, with a specialization in soil
science. Many enter the field as technicians or
assistants with only a bachelors degree in these
areas, but advancement usually comes with a
masters or doctoral degree.
Skills and Competencies

Tasks

Devises and develops

herbicides and pesticides.

Must have an interest in the science of both

soil and plants;
Should be environmentally concerned person;
Should have strong organizational skills;
Good communication and listening skills;
Must be able to work alone as well as part of a
team; and
Should be analytical and creative when it
comes to problem solving.

Physical Attributes and Characteristics

Physically fit;
Patient and curious;
Dedication to work;
Service oriented; and
Good interpersonal relations.

S a l a r y /C om p e n s a ti o n
In the Philippines, an Agronomists entry
level salary ranges from P18,000 to P25,000
per month and may even go up to P30,000
per month for those highly-trained and
experienced. Overseas such as in the U.S. &
Canada, the annual average salary for an
Agronomist is $51,200 or $4,267 per month.
Prospect for Career Advancement
Agronomists can specialize in many
different areas, so there should always be
opportunities for advancement and
exploration of other areas of agricultural
study. They can work for research
companies, or start up a private business of
their own, in agricultural counseling, or
otherwise. They can write books and
articles about agriculture, become
environmental advocates, or start up their
own organic farms.
Employment Opportunities
Agronomists can work outside on fields and
pastures, as well as inside on research labs
and boardrooms, giving seminars and
information sessions. They work for
government departments, or private entities,