Soil Scientist

Aspiring soil scientists usually have a passion for nature and are enthusiastic about working outdoors. They should also have the willingness to communicate their knowledge to others, a hunger to learn and seek answers to problems relating to the environment. Since soil scientists often serve as consultants for landowners, farmers, and environmentalists it is crucial that they have excellent communication skills, both written and oral.

He must also possess good observation & concentration skills to be capable to examine and verify the properties of different soils. Physical fitness is also a prerequisite because of the manual work that is involved. Many soils are very complicated and locations a soil scientist must analyze are diverse. Therefore, they must be willing to face various challenges and adapt to different working conditions.

Soil scientists study soil in the earth’s crust with emphasis on its chemical & physical properties and its mineralogical composition. They are also responsible to study the reactions of different types of soil to various chemicals and fertilizers. In addition, many soil scientists conduct surveys while grading soil.

They provide information to agriculturists, giving advice and recommendations regarding several issues such as optimum land usage, promotion of plant growth, and prevention or rectification of problems such as soil erosion. They may also serve as consultants to engineers and other construction workers and advise them about soil related problems.

There are generally two sub-categories in this field. Agricultural soil scientists mainly concentrate on features of soil that relate to farming & food. They often assume roles such as farm advisors, or end up representing agricultural firms or businesses. On the other hand, environmental soil scientists pay more attention to the soil's function in the ecosystem and its interaction with living organisms. They often work to ensure environmental quality, dealing with water quality problems, removal of contaminants, assessment of soil properties in construction projects and waste disposal techniques.

Soil scientists develop methods of conserving and maintaining soil that can be implemented by farmers and other agricultural entities. They also carry out research to develop improved measurement techniques, soil sampling gadgets, and other associated technologies.

A four-year bachelor's degree in soil science, either environmental or agricultural science is necessary to qualify. Students interested in pursuing a career in soil science should have a strong background in subjects like mathematics and sciences in high school. Some employers favor a master's degree or a doctorate from an agricultural university. Those who wish to teach at universities and colleges or conduct research will need to obtain a PhD degree.

In addition to formal education, internships can be very important in securing good positions because they provide on-the-job training. In the US, soil scientists who have graduated with their bachelor's degrees may apply for certification through the various boards like American Society of Agronomy and Soil Science Society of America. Even though this certification is not compulsory, candidates who are certified may have an edge over others.

The annual salary of a soil scientist averages out to be $51,000 in the US. The salary may range from $39,000 to $72,000, depending on whether the scientist is employed by a government agency or a private company. Within the UK, industrial organizations normally offer the best salaries.

Soil scientists work in a wide range of conditions, both indoors and outdoors. Outdoor work entails walking over rugged & uneven terrain, doing large amounts of physical work, such as digging to collect samples as well as soil mapping & classification. Indoor work is usually centered in laboratories & offices and involves doing research and writing reports. Soil scientists tend to work regular hours, a standard eight-hour day when indoors.

However, many soil scientists travel frequently, and may occasionally work erratic hours. While they are consulting with farmers, conducting surveys, or traveling, they may need to work overtime- usually ten or twelve hours per day. A

soil scientist

can choose to work in a government agency or a private company or teach at colleges & universities. 

Tools of trade for a

soil scientist

include the use of shovels and spades, and they also make extensive use of natural resource data banks, simulation models and computers. Computer skills and geographic information systems aid the scientist to analyze the geomorphology, topography, vegetation, and climate of various landscapes.

Soil scientists generally obtain immense satisfaction from their job. They get the opportunity to impact the lives of many, solve problems, meet different people, and vary their work routine, which becomes an exciting experience.

They get the chance to travel to various places and work in flexible hours. They always get credited for their work, so there is always a sense of fulfillment. Some may also receive benefits like sick leave, vacations, and health insurance.

A few drawbacks in this career are that it can take a toll on the body because of the physical work involved. The conditions a soil scientist works in can be unfavorable- under poor weather conditions, in dirt & unsanitary surroundings, on uneven terrain etc.

Another drawback is the fact that rigorous education and advanced degrees are required to progress or advance in this career. Research positions are almost never secured without obtaining a master’s degree.

Soil science is a relatively small field and the demand for soil scientists is anticipated to grow slower than average through the year 2012. That being said, a significant number of soil scientists with advanced training and strong educational backgrounds will be required to improve the quality of farm soil. In addition, they will also be needed to help urban and regional development as well as for ecological preservation. Therefore, employment opportunities for highly educated and trained scientists will continue to be plentiful.

Soil scientists usually begin as helpers or subordinates to senior soil scientists. Those who gain enough experience or perform exceptionally are generally promoted to more advanced positions with greater responsibilities, such as project heads or supervisors. Positions in management are secured by those who have a graduate degree or an M.B.A.

Metropolitan areas of developed countries will offer promising employment prospects because of the construction needs and environmental threats in such locations. Examples are Australia, South Africa, USA, UK and New Zealand.