National

Conduct research in breeding, physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and agricultural plants, their growth in soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative practices on soil and crop productivity.

Sample of reported job titles: Soil Scientist, Agronomy Research Manager, Crop Nutrition Scientist, Microbiology Soil Scientist, Physical Hydrologist, Research Soil Scientist, Soil Fertility Extension Specialist

Tasks

• Communicate research and project results to other professionals and the public or teach related courses, seminars, or workshops.
• Provide information and recommendations to farmers and other landowners regarding ways in which they can best use land, promote plant growth, and avoid or correct problems such as erosion.
• Investigate responses of soils to specific management practices to determine the use capabilities of soils and the effects of alternative practices on soil productivity.
• Develop methods of conserving and managing soil that can be applied by farmers and forestry companies.
• Conduct experiments to develop new or improved varieties of field crops, focusing on characteristics such as yield, quality, disease resistance, nutritional value, or adaptation to specific soils or climates.
• Investigate soil problems and poor water quality to determine sources and effects.
• Study soil characteristics to classify soils on the basis of factors such as geographic location, landscape position, and soil properties.
• Develop improved measurement techniques, soil conservation methods, soil sampling devices, and related technology.
• Conduct experiments investigating how soil forms, changes, and interacts with land-based ecosystems and living organisms.
• Identify degraded or contaminated soils and develop plans to improve their chemical, biological, and physical characteristics.

back to top

Tools & Technology

Tools used in this occupation:

Technology used in this occupation:

* Software developed by a government agency and/or distributed as freeware or shareware.

19-1011.00	Animal Scientists
19-1020.01	Biologists
19-1021.00	Biochemists and Biophysicists
19-1023.00	Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
19-1031.01	Soil and Water Conservationists
19-4011.02	Food Science Technicians
45-2011.00	Agricultural Inspectors