Jump in job levels for agri-food graduates

JOB opportunities for graduates in the agri-food sector increased more than three-fold in the last quarter of 2010, according to analysis by the Agricultural Science Association (ASA).

The ASA, weekly jobs-alert service advertised 43 opportunities for agricultural science graduates, compared to just 13 jobs in the same period in 2009.

ASA president, Pat O’Keeffe, said the increase reflected improved international food markets and a positive outlook for Ireland’s agriculture and food industry and a global increase in grain prices.

He said the decision, by Danone, to treble the capacity of its Macroom, Co Cork infant-formula plant was evidence of Ireland’s competitive advantage, and he was confident other food companies would make similar strategic investment decisions in the coming years.

“Teachers and career guidance counsellors should study the positive global outlook for the sector and should look at the opportunities identified in Food Harvest 2020, when advising students on career opportunities,” he said.