Farmers grow food, flower, or fiber crops. Their duties include planting, harvesting, operating and maintaining farm equipment, managing irrigation systems, and planning future planting and harvest cycles in a changeable environment.

Skills:

• Solid time management skills

• Strong work ethic

• Detail-oriented planning ability

• In-depth knowledge of plants and animals, as well as the relevant laws governing their management

• Mechanical and technical aptitude for servicing farm equipment

• Business management skills that include financing and budget projections

Average Salary (Massachusetts): $48,000 to $51,000 per year

Education Required:

• Many positions do not require formal education.

• For career advancement, a certification, associate’s degree, or bachelor’s degree in agriculture may be beneficial. It can also be helpful for farmers to earn a degree in business management.

Opportunities for Growth and Specialization:

• Speciality Crop Farmer

• Farm Owner

• Aquaculturist (fish, shellfish, and seaweed)

Successful florists bring a balance of creative talent and administrative skills. Having the artistic ability and attention to detail allow florists to bring designs to life.

Skills:

• Structural and creative design skills to aid in creating floral arrangements

• Customer serivce and communication skills with clients

• Time management and planning skills

Average Salary (Massachusetts): $36,000 per year

Education Required:

• Formal education may not be required. However, some employers may want candidates who have training in the form of an associate degree, participation in hands-on workshops, or professional certifications.

Gardeners are responsible for the care and maintenance of plants. They usually work for nurseries, greenhouses, landscaping companies, hotels, parks, or stores. Gardeners make sure plants are healthy and receive the right type of care.

Skills:

• Knowledge of plant care

• Attention to detail

• Problem-solving and decision-making

• Organization

Average Salary (Massachusetts): $48,000 per year

Education Required:

• Many positions do not require formal education.

• For career advancement, a certification, associate’s degree, or bachelor’s degree in horticulture or landscaping may be beneficial.

Landscapers build and maintain gardens, parks, and landscapes. The position often includes planting trees, shrubs and flowers along with weeding, mowing, and maintaining garden spaces. Some positions also include constructing hardscapes like decks, walkways, and patios. Landscapers can be employed in various commercial and residential settings.

Skills:

• Detail-oriented

• Physical stamina

• Professional

• Organized

Average Salary (Massachusetts): $41,000 per year

Education Required:

• Many positions do not require formal education.

• For career advancement, a certification, associate’s degree, or bachelor’s degree in horticulture, landscape design, or turfgrass management may be beneficial.

Opportunities for Growth and Specialization:

• Tree Care

• Irrigation Technician

• Landscape Business Owner

• Landscape Designer