Soil Scientist

Introduction

Soil scientists survey and map soils, and produce information on soil qualities and properties. They use their research to support the best use of available land. Their work can be applied in a variety of areas, eg, agriculture, forestry, land recovery, waste disposal and civil engineering.

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Work Activities

Soil scientists use their skills and knowledge to make the best use of soils. They determine the qualities and properties of soil, by examining sites, taking soil samples for laboratory analysis, and using computers to make maps and models.

Planning decisions are influenced by their findings, for example, they write reports that assess the suitability of land for agriculture, forestry, civil engineering, environmental monitoring, natural resource or archaeological exploration, and waste management.

In farming, soil scientists assess the soil's potential for growing crops. They may advise farmers on crop nutrition, the use of fertilisers, or land management methods that minimise or prevent soil erosion. Some soil scientists study soil drainage, and suggest ways to prevent chemical 'runoff' into nearby rivers and lakes. Others test the effects and efficiency of products like fertilisers and pesticides on the soil.

Soil scientists may work as soil mapping consultants. They advise civil engineers on the risk of subsidence and landslides. Soil scientists are very involved in environmental issues. They may advise on the suitability of a site for waste disposal, or recovery of abandoned mines and quarries.

Soil scientists often have to travel to carry out their work, both nationally and internationally.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

As a soil scientist, you must have a detailed knowledge of the chemical, physical and biological nature of soil.

You will need to enjoy working outside and be aware of environmental issues. You must have a flexible and enquiring mind and good problem solving skills. Computer skills are needed to produce reports, maps and models. You must be able to express yourself clearly, both verbally and in writing.

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Pay and Opportunities

Salaries for soil scientists vary.

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Soil scientists earn in the range of £17,000 - £25,500 a year, rising to £31,500 - £42,000. Higher earners can make around £50,500 a year. Higher salaries are available depending on employer, role and responsibilities.

Soil scientists usually work a basic 39-hour week.

Employers include local authorities and commercial firms involved in soil surveying, land management, restoration, environmental assessment and monitoring for commercial companies.

The Agricultural Development and Advisory Service (ADAS) employs soil scientists as consultants in land management and waste disposal, and has very good laboratory facilities.

There may be research opportunities, eg, with The National Soil Resources Institute (NSRI) at Cranfield University, the Macaulay Land Use Research Institute (MLURI) in Aberdeen, universities, and agricultural and technical colleges.

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Adult Opportunities

It is now illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

If you don't have the qualifications needed to enter your chosen degree or HND course, a college or university Access course (eg, Access to Science) could be the way in. No formal qualifications are usually required, but you should check individual course details.

• 8% of people in occupations such as soil scientist work part-time.
• 11% have flexible hours.
• 16% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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Further Information

The United Nations has designated 2008 as the International Year of Planet Earth. During this year governments everywhere will be encouraged to introduce educational and scientific projects to demonstrate new and exciting ways in which the Earth sciences can help ensure a safer and more prosperous world for future generations.

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New Developments

Some people working in this occupation may be involved in the green jobs sector in areas such as conservation or countryside management.