Career comparison
Agricultural Engineer vs. Farm Equipment Mechanic
Side-by-side pay, training, growth and day-to-day duties to help you choose between two related careers.
Agricultural engineers earn more at the median ($98,590 vs. $56,550), while farm equipment mechanics usually get to work faster (1–2 years of training). Agricultural engineers design farm equipment, irrigation and systems that grow food better. Farm equipment mechanics repair and maintain tractors, combines and precision farm equipment.
Pay data: BLS OEWS, May 2025 · Outlook: BLS 2025–35 · Checked October 15, 2026
| Agricultural Engineer | Farm Equipment Mechanic | |
|---|---|---|
| Median pay | $98,590 ($47.40/hr) | $56,550 ($27.19/hr) |
| Pay range (10th–90th) | $68,060 – $166,460 | $37,470 – $78,740 |
| Job growth, 2025–35 | +6.9% (faster than average) | +10.7% (much faster than average) |
| Openings per year | 100 | 3,700 |
| Typical entry education | Bachelor's degree | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Training time | 4-year engineering degree | 1–2 years |
| Key credential | PE license | Dealer technician programs |
| Work setting | Agricultural engineers work in offices, labs and fields.. | Mechanics work in dealer shops and in the field at farms, in all weather.. |
What each job does
Agricultural Engineer
- Design farm machinery
- Design irrigation
- Design structures
- Develop precision ag tools
- Conserve soil and water
Farm Equipment Mechanic
- Diagnose equipment problems
- Repair engines and drivetrains
- Repair hydraulic systems
- Troubleshoot electronics and GPS
- Perform preventive maintenance
How they’re similar
Both careers involve problem-solving, in-demand, working outdoors, and hands-on work. Both are part of the agriculture, landscaping & animal care field, so many skills transfer between them.
Which should you choose?
Choose agricultural engineer if…
- I grew up around farms
- I like engineering
- I like field work
Choose farm equipment mechanic if…
- I love farm machinery
- I enjoy troubleshooting
- I like electronics and mechanics
Still torn? Take the Agricultural Engineer fit quiz and the Farm Equipment Mechanic fit quiz, or the full Career Match Quiz.
Quick comparisons
Which pays more, agricultural engineer or farm equipment mechanic?
Agricultural Engineers earn more at the median: $98,590 versus $56,550 for farm equipment mechanics, based on BLS May 2025 data.
Which takes less time to train for?
Farm Equipment Mechanics typically train faster (1–2 years) than agricultural engineers (4-year engineering degree).
Which career has better job growth?
BLS projects farm equipment mechanics to grow +10.7% from 2025–35, compared with +6.9% for agricultural engineers.