The farm manager is central to this process. Their ability to integrate these elements into a cohesive strategy can determine whether a farm thrives or struggles. The role’s hands-on responsibilities and direct impact on food production make it appealing to individuals pursuing an advanced agribusiness degree. However, individuals considering the profession should understand the typical farm manager job description before committing to this career path. 

Farm Manager Role at a Glance 

Farm managers oversee the operations of farms and similar properties producing food products, such as crops, livestock and dairy. Those in the role coordinate all stages of production, which can vary based on the type of production. For crops, this could involve planting, fertilizing and harvesting. For livestock and dairy, this can involve managing grazing patterns and animal movement. 

Farm managers also develop production strategies built around variable factors, including: 

• Soil conditions 

• Market conditions 

• Disease risk 

• Availability of government aid 

Their responsibilities may also include:  

• Purchasing supplies and tools 

• Maintaining equipment 

• Overseeing facility maintenance 

• Managing financial operations 

• Supervising labor needs 

While the foundation of the farm manager job description involves cultivating product, those in the role must be adept at developing strategies that optimize profitability year after year. This can involve risk management strategies that take several variables into account, such as crop or livestock prices or the onset of unique conditions like an extended period of poor weather. It can also involve coordinating with lenders and banks to secure reasonable financing to maintain production. 

The majority of farm managers work independently in outdoor environments, although some work for larger corporations involved in agricultural production. The role typically has a physical element to it, so those in the role must be mindful of creating and maintaining a safe work environment. 

Farm Manager Education Requirements 

Traditionally, the educational benchmark for farm managers is a high school diploma. However, advances in technology and the increased complexity of farm management and agribusiness have made earning an undergraduate or graduate degree especially valuable. These degrees are typically designed to deepen an individual’s knowledge of different factors that drive successful farming, such as the relationship that agriculture has with business, economics, science and ecology. 

A farm manager’s education doesn’t necessarily end with obtaining a degree. According to Dr. Samantha Siemers, assistant professor of agriculture at Southeast Missouri State University, success in an agricultural-based career such as farm management involves a willingness to continually evolve one’s knowledge to use future innovation more efficiently.  

“Within the world of agriculture, you have to be willing to change, and you have to be willing to adapt,” Siemers says. “Consumer preferences change regularly and producers’ preferences change regularly, so the learning just doesn’t stop.” 

Experience also plays a key role in a farm manager’s journey. Individuals typically gain experience in the agricultural field in other roles for a few years prior to pursuing farm management. This allows them to cultivate hands-on knowledge of the elements that make up farm operation—knowledge that eventually supports more holistic operational strategies once they ascend to the farm manager position.  

Certification is not required to become a farm manager. However, earning certifications after earning an undergraduate or a graduate degree can further demonstrate expertise in specific aspects of farm management. 

Farm Manager Role Salary and Job Growth 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) classifies farm managers under farmers, ranchers and other agricultural managers, which had a median annual salary of $87,980 in 2024. The BLS also notes that farm managers may receive government subsidies or similar forms of payments to offset the inherent risks that come with farming operations, such as poor weather conditions. 

The long-term job outlook for farm managers is shaped by the essential nature of food production. The primary purpose behind farming is to produce food, a basic need that will always be in demand regardless of how the world changes. As such, the individual who pursues a farm manager career will enter a stable field whose importance will never wane. 

Cultivate a Bright Future in Agriculture 

The typical farm manager job description may revolve around the principles of food production, but the role’s impact goes much further. The work that farm managers do ultimately produces one of the building blocks of life. This makes the role not only necessary but also uniquely meaningful. 

The Master of Science in Agribusiness from SEMO Online can help you develop the high-level knowledge and skills needed to make a lasting impact in this critical field. The program allows you to study under seasoned faculty currently active in farming and agribusiness, and their insights can help you gain a deeper understanding of the elements that make up effective farm management strategies and influence positive change within the industry.  

Explore SEMO Online’s agribusiness program and learn why the university has supported student achievement in the agricultural field for more than 122 years. 

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