Sector Profiles

Farmer with a tomato plant
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OCN’s Sector Profiles

Discover Your Place in Organic Agriculture

The organic sector is made up of a wide range of careers—on and off the farm. Whether you’re interested in growing food, advancing food justice, conducting research, or ensuring organic integrity, there’s a path for you.

OCN’s Sector Profiles introduce you to the many roles that keep the organic movement thriving. Each profile includes sample job titles, skill sets, education pathways, and real-world career stories to help you learn what’s possible.

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Sector Profiles

Explore Organic Career Pathways

Choose a sector below to learn more about opportunities in that area.

Organic Farming

Work directly with the land—growing crops, raising animals, and managing organic systems.
Inspectors

Organic Inspection

Conduct on-site visits to farms and processing facilities to verify compliance with organic standards.

Organic Certification Agencies

Work for certification agencies to review documentation, communicate with producers, and uphold the USDA Organic label.
Group of people

Policy & Advocacy

Advance food systems change through organizing, lobbying, or working for nonprofit and government organizations.
Researches on field

Research, Education & Extension

Conduct scientific studies, develop sustainable practices, or teach the next generation of organic professionals.
Vegetables

Retail & Marketing

Support organic businesses through sales, distribution, product development, and consumer education.