*A job as a Livestock Commission Agent falls under the broader career category of Buyers and Purchasing Agents, Farm Products. The information on this page will generally apply to all careers in this category but may not specifically apply to this career title. Job Description for Buyers and Purchasing Agents, Farm Products : Purchase farm products either for further processing or resale. Includes tree farm contractors, grain brokers and market operators, grain buyers, and tobacco buyers. May negotiate contracts.
- Earn a high school diploma. For many employers, a high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement for livestock agent jobs. …
- Consider a degree. …
- Gain experience. …
- Develop skills. …
- Join a professional association. …
- Tailor your resume.
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What do livestock agents do?
Livestock agents often act as a liaison between a seller and their client to facilitate the purchase of livestock. While their responsibilities may vary based on the agricultural industry in their area, these professionals typically have the following duties:
What is a livestock agent?
A livestock agent, also known as a livestock buyer, is an agricultural professional who manages the buying and selling of farm animals, such as cattle, poultry or pigs. They work on behalf of their clients, which may include farmers, ranchers, meat processing plants or other companies that use animal products. They travel to various auctions to assess the health and quality of livestock, estimate profit values and make purchases for clients. These agents follow market trends closely so they can advise their clients about livestock to purchase.
Work environment for livestock agents
Many livestock agents are self-employed and work directly for their clients, such as farm owners or managers. Others work for companies that purchase livestock for their operations, such as food production companies or grocery stores. These agents may travel often for their work to attend auctions for their clients. Their work hours can vary when attending auctions or meeting with clients who may want to meet in the evenings or on weekends. Livestock agents spend much of their time outdoors while inspecting livestock, though they also complete some office work, such as preparing reports and researching market trends.
Average salary and career outlook for livestock agents
Here are the steps you can take to become a livestock agent:
1. Earn a high school diploma
For many employers, a high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement for livestock agent jobs. While in high school, take a variety of courses to help prepare you for a job in this field, such as biology, mathematics, animal science and business. Some high schools offer agricultural programs that can help you learn more about agriculture, food and natural resources. Joining these programs can also help you enhance your college applications if you choose to pursue a degree.
2. Consider a degree
While an associate or bachelors degree is optional for many livestock agent jobs, some employers may require this education, such as food production companies. Earning a degree can help you learn more about agricultural processes and develop skills to be successful as a livestock agent, such as business management. Most livestock agents choose to earn a degree in agronomy, animal science, agricultural business or a related area. While completing these programs, you can expect to take courses in a range of areas to prepare you for working in the agricultural industry. Some examples of courses you may take include:
3. Gain experience
Its helpful to gain experience working with livestock to help you learn how to evaluate the quality of these animals. Some livestock agents may have this experience because they grew up on a family farm with animals. Others can find entry-level roles assisting local farmers or ranchers in their area. Look for internships or apprenticeships that involve working directly with animals, such as farmworkers. This experience can help you become familiar with animal husbandry, which is the practice of raising and breeding farm animals for food production or other purposes.
4. Develop skills
There are many skills that can help you become a successful livestock agent. Developing some of these soft skills can help you perform many jobs tasks, such as building relationships with farmers or negotiating the sale prices of animals. If you want to improve some of these skills, search for online courses or workshops in your area. Some skills that you can work to develop include:
5. Join a professional association
Though unnecessary to find employment as a livestock agent, there are many benefits to becoming a member of a professional agricultural association. These groups can help you meet other agents and expand your professional network, which may help you find jobs or gain professional references. Many associations offer courses or certifications that can help you learn new skills. Listing a membership to an association on your resume can also help you distinguish yourself from other job candidates. Some groups you may consider joining include the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers or the American Society of Animal Science.
Please note that none of the companies mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.
6. Tailor your resume
Once youre ready to apply for livestock agent jobs, update your resume to reflect your relevant skills and experience. Read through the job description and use some of the same keywords on your resume to help you pass an applicant tracking system (ATS). Feature your relevant work experience prominently on your resume so employers can see you have the necessary qualifications for the role. If youre a recent graduate, include any relevant coursework you completed to prepare you for livestock agent jobs. Make sure the skills you include on your resume align with those listed in the job description.
FAQ
What states have livestock agents?
How do I become a livestock agent in Australia?
How much does a livestock agent make in Montana?
How do I become a livestock agent in Texas?
- U.S. citizen.
- Excellent physical condition.
- Outstanding record of at least five (5) years of active law enforcement experience, including criminal investigative experience. …
- Hold an active peace officers license.
What is a livestock agent law enforcement Montana?
