First-Line Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers

What this job is

Directly supervise and coordinate the activities of agricultural, forestry, aquacultural, and related workers.

What they do day to day

• Assign tasks such as feeding and treatment of animals, and cleaning and maintenance of animal quarters.
• Record the numbers and types of fish or shellfish reared, harvested, released, sold, and shipped.
• Monitor workers to ensure that safety regulations are followed, warning or disciplining those who violate safety regulations.
• Observe animals for signs of illness, injury, or unusual behavior, notifying veterinarians or managers as warranted.
• Observe fish and beds or ponds to detect diseases, monitor fish growth, determine quality of fish, or determine completeness of harvesting.
• Train workers in tree felling or bucking, operation of tractors or loading machines, yarding or loading techniques, or safety regulations.
• Treat animal illnesses or injuries, following experience or instructions of veterinarians.
• Train workers in spawning, rearing, cultivating, and harvesting methods, and in the use of equipment.
• Train workers in techniques such as planting, harvesting, weeding, or insect identification and in the use of safety measures.
• Confer with managers to evaluate weather or soil conditions, to develop plans or procedures, or to discuss issues such as changes in fertilizers, herbicides, or cultivating techniques.

Skills and knowledge that matter most

Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).

Education and preparation

Preparation level 3 of 5 — Medium preparation. Usually vocational training, an associate's degree or an apprenticeship.

Typical entry education (BLS): High school diploma or equivalent, plus less than 5 years of related work experience.

Who this job suits

Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.

Job titles you'll see in postings

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