Soil and Plant Scientists
Conduct research in breeding, physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, 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.
Soil and Plant Scientists earn a median of $37.91/hr — about $79,000 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn $23.41/hr; the top 10% earn $66.40/hr. (Annual figures are approximate: hourly × 2,080.)
What you'd actually do
- Communicate research or project results to other professionals or the public or teach related courses, seminars, or workshops.
- Develop methods of conserving or managing soil that can be applied by farmers or forestry companies.
- Provide information or recommendations to farmers or other landowners regarding ways in which they can best use land, promote plant growth, or avoid or correct problems such as erosion.
- 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 or poor water quality to determine sources and effects.
- Investigate responses of soils to specific management practices to determine the use capabilities of soils and the effects of alternative practices on soil productivity.
How you get there
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation: extensive preparation (Job Zone 5 of 5).
The feel of the work
Much of the work happens outdoors; much of the day is spent working solo. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)
Working for yourself
About 2% of soil and plant scientists are self-employed.
Who it tends to fit
This work tends to fit people who are analytical, hands-on and organized and detail-focused.
Work a simulated shift in this job — freeMake the real decisions this job involves, then see what your choices say about you.Related careers
- Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
- Urban and Regional Planners
- Occupational Health and Safety Specialists
- Chemists
- School Psychologists
- Biological Scientists, All Other
Quick questions
- How much does a soil and plant scientist make?
- The median pay is $37.91 per hour — roughly $79,000 a year, with the real range running from about $23.41/hr (10th percentile) to $66.40/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Do you need a degree to be a soil and plant scientist?
- The typical entry-level education is: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation level: extensive preparation (Job Zone 5 of 5).
- What does a soil and plant scientist actually do all day?
- Communicate research or project results to other professionals or the public or teach related courses, seminars, or workshops. Develop methods of conserving or managing soil that can be applied by farmers or forestry companies. Provide information or recommendations to farmers or other landowners regarding ways in which they can best use land, promote plant growth, or avoid or correct problems such as erosion.
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