Agricultural and food scientists held about 36,100 jobs in 2014.

Agricultural and food scientists work in various industries, including colleges and universities, manufacturing, and in scientific research and development. The work of agricultural and food scientists takes place in laboratories, in offices, and in the field. They spend most of their time studying data and reports in a laboratory or an office. Fieldwork includes visits to farms or processing plants. 

When visiting a food or animal production facility, agricultural and food scientists must follow biosecurity measures, wear suitable clothing, and tolerate the environment associated with food production processes. This environment may include noise associated with large production machinery, cold temperatures associated with food production or storage, and close proximity to animal byproducts.

The industries that employed the most animal scientists in 2014 were as follows:

The industries that employed the most food scientists and technologists in 2014 were as follows:  

The industries that employed the most soil and plant scientists in 2014 were as follows:  

Work Schedules

Agricultural and food scientists typically work full time and have standard schedules. Certain positions may require travel. The amount of travel can vary widely.