Agriculture & Food

Broadacre Crop and Livestock Farmer

SOC 11-9013.00 · ESCO 1311 · OSCA 151332

REA INV ART SOC ENT CON This role See your match →

Role snapshot

Overview

Runs a mixed farming operation, rotating crops and managing livestock across large areas of land, balancing seasonal planting, animal husbandry, and machinery maintenance year-round. This involves strategic decision-making regarding crop selection, soil health, animal welfare, market trends, and financial management to ensure sustainable and profitable production.

Contributes directly to global food security by producing essential crops and livestock, supporting rural economies, and managing land sustainably for future generations.

On the job

  • Plan crop rotations, planting schedules, and harvest strategies based on market demand and environmental conditions.
  • Monitor livestock health, manage breeding programs, and ensure proper nutrition and welfare.
  • Operate and maintain heavy agricultural machinery, including tractors, harvesters, and irrigation systems.
  • Analyze soil samples, apply fertilizers and pesticides responsibly, and implement soil conservation practices.
  • Manage farm finances, including budgeting, sales, purchasing, and compliance with agricultural regulations.
Broadacre Crop and Livestock Farmer at work

Tools & technology

TractorsHarvestersSeed drillsGPS guidance systemsLivestock handling equipmentSoil testing kitsFarm management software

Average salary

$75K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$40K Bottom 10%
$150K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

While practical experience, often gained through family farming or apprenticeships, is paramount, formal education such as a certificate, diploma, or bachelor's degree in agricultural science, farm management, or agronomy can provide a strong foundation.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Farm Manager (large corporate farm)

CURRENT ROLE

Broadacre Crop and Livestock Farmer

Agriculture & Food

ADJACENT MOVES

Agricultural Consultant
Specialized Crop Producer
Farm Hand
Agricultural Technician
Farm Apprentice

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

E

enterprising · ERC

Individuals who thrive on hands-on work, managing complex operations, and making independent decisions in an outdoor environment, often with a strong entrepreneurial drive, will find this role rewarding.

Personality characteristics

Organized Planner

Systematically plans crop cycles, livestock management, and financial operations to ensure efficiency and profitability.

Resilient

Handles unpredictable weather, market fluctuations, and operational challenges with a steady demeanor, maintaining focus through adversity.

Self-Reliant

Comfortable making significant choices and taking responsibility for the farm's success, often working independently and leading the operation.

Adaptable Problem-Solver

Continuously learns and adjusts strategies to address new challenges, optimize farm output, and embrace innovative agricultural practices.

Practical

Enjoys hands-on work and applying scientific knowledge to tangible outcomes in the field, preferring concrete results over abstract theories.

Best for

  • Individuals who are passionate about agriculture, self-motivated, and enjoy working independently outdoors.
  • Those who are resilient, adaptable, and skilled in both practical hands-on tasks and strategic planning.
  • People seeking a career where their efforts directly contribute to food production and sustainable land management.

Watch out for

  • Demanding physical work and long, irregular hours, especially during peak seasons.
  • High level of financial risk and exposure to unpredictable environmental factors.
  • Can be a solitary role, requiring strong self-motivation and independent work ethic.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Broadacre Crop and Livestock Farmer — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Livestock feeding and health check
Field work: planting, spraying, or harvesting (seasonal)
Crop monitoring and scouting for pests/diseases
Admin: record keeping, ordering supplies
Tue
Livestock feeding and health check
Field work: tillage, irrigation system checks, or fencing repairs
Meeting with agronomist or veterinarian
Equipment repair or workshop maintenance
Wed
Livestock feeding and health check
Field work: soil sampling or fertilizer application
Market research and sales calls for produce/livestock
Financial management, budgeting, and invoice processing
Thu
Livestock feeding and health check
Farm infrastructure project (e.g., building repair, new installation)
Attend agricultural industry webinar or training
Review weather forecasts and adjust plans
Fri
Livestock feeding and health check
Final field checks and preparation for the weekend
Inventory management and logistics planning
Team meeting with seasonal staff or family members
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

FREE ASSESSMENT

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