How to Write Job Descriptions That Attract Quality Ag Talent in Canada

Canada’s agricultural sector is vast and sophisticated. It includes ag equipment dealerships, crop input suppliers, food processors, agtech startups, research institutions, and more. As employers in this multifaceted industry know all too well, attracting top-tier talent isn’t easy—especially when job descriptions fall short of inspiring the right candidates to apply.

Here’s how to write job descriptions that actually work—and help you stand out in the competitive world of Canadian ag recruitment.

1. Know Your Audience

Think beyond the “boots on the ground” stereotype. The ag talent you want may be business-savvy, tech-forward, and ambitious. They might come from ag backgrounds—or from adjacent industries bringing fresh perspectives. Consider who you’re speaking to and tailor the tone accordingly.

Pro tip: Candidates in this space are looking for meaningful work and long-term growth. Make sure your posting reflects that.

2. Use Clear, Non-Generic Titles

Avoid vague or overly corporate job titles like “Specialist II” or “Coordinator A.” Instead, be direct and searchable:

• “Precision Ag Sales Representative – Alberta”
• “Territory Manager – Crop Inputs (Saskatchewan)”
• “Agricultural Equipment Service Manager – Manitoba”

Job seekers often search by role and region—so help them find you.

3. Be Transparent About Location & Flexibility

Canada is a big country. Whether you’re hiring in a small town or a regional hub, location matters. Specify the city or rural area, and be clear about remote work, relocation support, or hybrid options.

Bonus: Highlight lifestyle perks—short commutes, community feel, or proximity to the outdoors—if relevant.

4. Explain the Impact of the Role

Candidates want to know why the job matters. Describe how this role contributes to the bigger picture of Canadian agriculture. For example:

“As our Operations Manager, you’ll play a vital role in streamlining supply chain processes that support Canada’s growing agri-food exports.”

This is especially important for roles in logistics, finance, sales, HR, or R&D—functions that don’t involve farming directly but are crucial to the industry.

5. List Responsibilities with Purpose

Avoid dumping a laundry list of tasks. Instead, group responsibilities under themes like:

• Customer Success & Sales Growth
• Team Leadership & Development
• Operational Efficiency & Compliance

Use active language and limit lists to 5-7 bullet points per section.

6. Define Qualifications—but Stay Realistic

Differentiate between must-have and nice-to-have. If you require 5+ years in agri-business, say so. But don’t scare off great candidates by demanding 10+ years of niche experience or every certification under the sun.

And in Canada’s bilingual landscape, be specific if French is truly required or just a bonus.

7. Showcase Your Company Culture

Ag professionals care about more than compensation. They want to align with your values and culture. Highlight things like:

• Professional development opportunities
• Community involvement
• Sustainability initiatives
• Company growth and leadership stability

In a tight-knit industry like ag, reputation is everything.

8. Close with a Compelling Call to Action

Instead of the tired “Click here to apply,” try something like:

“Ready to grow your ag career with a company that values your impact? Apply today and let’s start a conversation.”

Make it sound human and inviting.

Final Thoughts

Recruiting for Canada’s agriculture sector means understanding the evolving nature of the industry and the people behind it. A thoughtfully written job description is your first—and sometimes only—chance to make a lasting impression on high-quality talent.

Write like you’re speaking to a future teammate. Because if you get it right, that’s exactly who you’ll find.

Need help crafting ag-specific job postings that attract the right people?

Let Grasslands Recruitment Specialists help you connect with top-tier candidates in Canada’s agri-business space.  Contact us today.