Trade it
Economic and business skills are put to good use in the fast-paced, commercial side of the agriculture industry.
Importing, exporting or providing advice — these are the jobs that make the food and fibre industry go round.
What sort of things will I do in a ‘Trade it' career?
Collecting and analysing data, negotiating prices and contracts, overseeing imports and exports, advising farmers on how to get the best return; there is no shortage of careers in the commercial side of agriculture.
Let’s take a closer look at some 'Trade it' careers.
Market analyst
In agriculture, market analysts collect process and analyse data to assist in the marketing of agricultural products and services.
- designing surveys and other tools to gather information
- collecting, arranging and analysing financial information from company records and government statistics
- predicting current and future consumer trends, such as changes in tastes and lifestyles
- writing reports on the results of research activities
- identifying specific consumer markets
- discuss information needs with clients.
To become a market analyst you usually need to obtain a bachelor degree in Commerce or Business, with a major in Marketing. For these university courses you’ll need to complete year 12 ATAR pathway.
For more information see Career Harvest - market analyst
Rural financial counsellor
A rural financial counsellor assists rural businesses and families in financial difficulty and works with them to develop plans and strategies to resolve their financial issues. Some of the day to day tasks of a rural financial counsellor include:
• interviewing clients to determine their financial status, discussing financial options and developing financial plans and strategies
• helping people identify appropriate and available government assistance
• negotiating payment arrangements with banks and financial institutions
• referring people to assistance services such as helplines, family support, personal counselling and community legal aid.
To become a rural financial counsellor you need to complete a Vocational Education and Training (VET) Diploma in Community Services (Financial Counselling).
For more information see Career Harvest - rural finance counsellor
Livestock buyer
A livestock buyer purchases the best quality stock at the best price for farm businesses, traders or processors. Some of the day-to-day tasks of a livestock buyer include:
• inspecting livestock in the field and sale yards
• using experience and knowledge to identify the most suitable livestock
• bidding for and purchasing livestock from auctions
• arranging transport for the livestock, whether it is to a farm, an abattoir, or to the wharf for live export.
To become a livestock buyer you don’t necessarily need formal qualifications but it may help you find employment if you have completed a Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification— either a certificate and/or a diploma—in Agriculture. These courses are available through regional institutes of technology and agricultural colleges.
Having farm and livestock work experience may also assist you with finding employment.
For more information see Career Harvest - livestock buyer
Where can I get more information?
If a career in the commercial side agriculture sounds interesting you can find out moreat the websites listed under 'External Links' on this page.