If you love the outdoors, fresh produce, and getting your hands dirty (literally), a career in food and gardening could be both fulfilling and lucrative. The industry offers a variety of roles that combine creativity, science, and business, all while promising competitive salaries. Here are 15 high-paying jobs that merge these two passions.
Agricultural Engineer
Agricultural engineers focus on designing advanced tools, irrigation systems, and processes to boost farming efficiency. A bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering is typically required, and obtaining certifications can enhance job prospects. Their technical expertise ensures that modern farming operations run smoothly, making this role essential for innovation in agriculture.
Average Annual Pay: $80,677
Food Product Developer
Food product developers use a blend of science and creativity to craft new food items or enhance existing ones. This role typically requires a food science or culinary arts degree and emphasizes research and innovation. Developers work in various industries, from packaged foods to gourmet products, and often collaborate with marketing teams to meet consumer preferences and trends.
Average Annual Pay: $87,925
Agribusiness Operations Manager
Agribusiness managers oversee agricultural businesses’ financial and operational aspects, ensuring efficiency and profitability. This role typically requires a degree in business or agriculture, along with strong leadership and management skills. It is vital in connecting the farming industry with the business world. The annual pay of an agribusiness manager can go as high as $132,000.
Average Annual Pay: $72,735
Plant Breeder
Plant breeders focus on developing new plant varieties with improved characteristics, such as enhanced disease resistance or higher yields. A background in plant science, genetics, or biotechnology is crucial. Many plant breeders work with research institutions or agricultural companies, contributing to the future of sustainable farming.
Average Annual Pay: $89,605
Landscape Architect
Blending creativity with technical expertise, landscape architects design outdoor spaces that harmonize functionality and beauty, including gardens, parks, and urban environments. To achieve licensure, landscape architects must have a bachelor’s degree in the discipline and successfully complete the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE).
Average Annual Pay: $69,355
Food Safety Manager
Food safety managers oversee compliance with food safety standards, ensuring that products meet regulatory requirements and consumer expectations. This role requires expertise in food safety practices, typically supported by a degree in food science or related fields and certifications such as HACCP or ServSafe.
Average Annual Salary: $74,780
Food Scientist
Food scientists work on improving food production, processing techniques, and safety standards. This role usually requires a bachelor’s degree in food science, chemistry, or a related field, with senior positions favoring advanced education. Their expertise ensures safe and efficient food systems.
Average Annual Pay: $74,200
Agricultural Chemist
Agricultural chemists analyze soil, fertilizers, and pesticides to improve crop yields and ensure environmental safety. A bachelor’s degree in chemistry, agriculture, or a related field is typically required, with advanced roles often needing further specialization. Chemists often collaborate with agricultural companies or research labs.
Average Annual Pay: $69,364 (Base Pay)
Ecologist
Ecologists study ecosystems, environmental processes, and the impacts of human activity on natural habitats. Their work involves field research, data analysis, and policy recommendations to support environmental conservation. Usually you need to have a degree in environmental science, biology, or a similar discipline to become an ecologist. Ecologists play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable environmental practices.
Average Annual Pay: $57,091
Farm Manager
Farm managers oversee all farm operations, from planting and harvesting to managing workers and budgets. While having a degree in agriculture or farm management can be helpful, extensive hands-on experience is often equally valued. This role is ideal for individuals seeking hands-on involvement in agriculture.
Average Annual Pay: $55,846
Arborist
Arborists, or tree surgeons, maintain and care for trees in various settings. Certification from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) is often required to demonstrate expertise and qualify for maintenance and care roles. Arborists are vital for urban tree management and conservation.
Average Annual Pay: $54,225
Greenhouse Manager
Greenhouse managers create ideal environments for plants to thrive, balancing light, water, and temperature with care. They use tools like automated climate controls and rely on hands-on experience to keep everything running smoothly. While a degree in agriculture or horticulture helps, a passion for plants and problem-solving is just as important. These professionals often work in nurseries, botanical gardens, or agricultural firms, ensuring every plant reaches its full potential.
Average Annual Pay: $53,054
Nursery Manager
Nursery managers play a hands-on role in keeping plant nurseries running smoothly. They ensure trees, shrubs, flowers, and vegetables are grown and cared for, ready to be sold in their healthiest state. Alongside managing inventory and creating the best growing conditions, they work closely with their staff and help customers pick the perfect plants. While a degree in horticulture or agriculture is helpful, practical experience and a love for plants often matter most in this rewarding role.
Average Annual Pay: $48,220
Horticulturist
Horticulturists specialize in the science and art of growing plants, ranging from fruits and vegetables to ornamental greenery and flowers. A degree in horticulture or botany and practical experience in the field are usually needed. Their expertise supports nurseries, greenhouses, and landscaping businesses. Opportunities span nurseries and botanical gardens, making it an ideal career for plant lovers.
Average Annual Pay: $47,212
Hydroponics Technician
Hydroponics technicians are experts in growing plants without soil, using innovative systems often set up in controlled indoor spaces. They focus on creating the perfect balance of water, nutrients, and light to ensure healthy, sustainable growth. A degree isn’t always necessary, but certifications in hydroponics or similar fields can open doors to exciting career opportunities in this industry. This is a growing field with increasing demand for expertise in sustainable farming.
Average Annual Pay: $45,462