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Agricultural Scientist

Agriculture · Agriculture & Food Security Market estimate

Apply science to improve farming practices, crop yields, and food security. Agriculture is one of Jamaica's foundational industries with growing focus on sustainability and technology.

Salary Breakdown

$1,200,000 JMD – $2,000,000 JMD
0 - 2 years

Research assistant or extension officer. Conducts field surveys, collects data, and supports farmers with best practices. Indicative market estimate, not a published salary scale.

Estimated Take-Home Pay

Based on the midpoint of the Entry salary range ($1,600,000 JMD), after NIS, NHT, Education Tax, and PAYE.

Est. Net / Month$123,756 JMD
Est. Net / Year$1,485,080 JMD
Show deduction breakdown
Gross (annual)
$1,600,000 JMD
NIS (3%)
−$48,000 JMD
NHT (2%)
−$32,000 JMD
Education Tax
−$34,920 JMD
PAYE Income Tax
−$0 JMD
Net (annual)
$1,485,080 JMD

Estimate only — illustrative rates and thresholds, not tax advice. Confirm current figures with Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) and the National Insurance Scheme (NIS).

Career Path Roadmap

  1. 1

    High School & CXC Subjects

    Pass CSEC Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Agricultural Science. A passion for farming and the environment is helpful.

    5 years
  2. 2

    Bachelor's Degree in Agriculture

    Complete a BSc in Agriculture, Agricultural Science, or related field at CASE (UWI) or another institution.

    3 - 4 years
  3. 3

    Entry-Level Research / Extension Work

    Work with RADA, a research institution, or an agribusiness. Conduct field trials and support farmers.

    1 - 3 years
  4. 4

    Agricultural Officer / Researcher

    Lead projects on crop improvement, soil management, or pest control. Publish research findings.

    3 - 5 years
  5. 5

    Senior Scientist / Programme Director

    Manage agricultural programmes, advise government policy, and lead national or regional initiatives.

    5+ years
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Required Education

  • CSEC/CXC Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Agricultural Science
  • BSc in Agriculture or Agricultural Science

Common Local Certifications

  • RADA Certified Extension Officer
  • HEART/NSTA agricultural NVQ-J qualifications - check the current levels on the Qualifications Registry of Jamaica
  • CARICOM Skills Certificate – Agriculture

Where to Train

University of the West Indies, Mona

Kingston & St. Andrew · Public University
Accredited 12 accredited programmes

A recommended place to train as a Agricultural Scientist

College of Agriculture, Science and Education

Portland · Public College
Registered 11 accredited programmes

A recommended place to train as a Agricultural Scientist

Local Institutions Offering Programs

  • University of the West Indies, Mona (UWI) – College of Agriculture, Science & Education (CASE)
  • HEART/NSTA Trust – Agricultural Training