Farm Secretary

Job Description:

Farm secretaries are responsible for the day-to-day running of the business side of farms.

Job Category:
Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing

What you will do:

As part of your day-to-day duties, you could:

  • use tailor-made agricultural business software
  • keep records of livestock and crops to
  • help with crop and stock planning
  • apply for government grants and subsidies
  • prepare farm business accounts and tax returns
  • deal with wages and staff records
  • cost, order and pay for equipment and supplies
  • do typing, filing and other general administrative tasks
  • keep up to date with farming, health and safety and tax laws

Skills:

You’ll need:

  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
  • administration skills

As well as:

  • be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
  • the ability to work on your own
    sensitivity and understanding
  • to be flexible and open to change (adaptability skills)
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • customer service skills
Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • applying directly
  • training with a professional body

College
In the UK for example, you may find it useful to do a college course in a relevant subject like:

  • Certificate in Bookkeeping
  • Diploma in Business Administration
  • Certificate in Accounting
  • Management and Administration

Apprenticeship
You could get into this job through a business administrator advanced apprenticeship.

Direct Application
You could apply directly for jobs.

You may also need experience in office administration and knowledge of bookkeeping.

 

Working Hours and Environment:

Typical working hours are 37-39 hours a week and your hours could be flexible.

You could work in an office, from home or on a farm.

Career Path & Progression:

With experience, you could become a farm manager.

You could also move into other types of rural business, like stables or countryside management, or use your business and administrative skills in other industries.