Soil and Plant Scientists

General Information

Description

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.

Workplace at a Glance

What you can expect to experience while on the job

  • Responsibility
  • Exposure to job hazards
  • Physical activity
  • Decision making
  • Repetitiveness
  • Level of competition
  • Time pressure

Industry areas

  • Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources

Job Outlook

Overall employment of agricultural and food scientists is projected to grow 8 percent from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations. About 4,100 openings for agricultural and food scientists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

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Salary

Average Salary

Salary

$66,750

State-by-state Salary

Gray states indicate no data available

$99,950
$31,430
No Information for this section

Education

Most Common Education Levels

People in this career achieve this level of education.

  • Master's degree 28%
  • Bachelor's degree 23%
  • Doctoral degree 19%
  • Associate's degree 4%
  • Post baccalaureate 4%
  • Post-doctoral training 4%
  • Post-master's certificate 4%
  • First professional degree 4%
  • Post-secondary certificate 4%
  • High school 0%
  • Some college 0%
  • Less than high school 0%

Knowledge

  • Biology
  • Mathematics
  • Education and Training
  • Computers and Electronics
  • Chemistry

Skills at a Glance

Skills helpful in this career

  • Verbal skills
  • Critical thinking & problem solving
  • Equipment operation & maintenance
  • Math & science skills
  • Technology design & control
  • Leadership
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