Soil and Plant Scientists
O*NET 19-1013.00 · SOC 19-1013
Soil and Plant Scientist is a solid career choice. Median pay is $79k a year with +6.7% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 1,400 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Collect soil core samples to assess nutrient levels and composition.
- →Analyze soil test results to develop crop fertilization recommendations.
- →Conduct field trials to evaluate new crop varieties under local conditions.
- →Monitor plant disease outbreaks and recommend integrated pest management strategies.
- →Prepare soil health reports for farmers and land management agencies.
Education & How to Get In
Soil and Plant Scientist roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Soil and Plant Scientist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Soil and Plant Scientist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Soil and Plant Scientist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Soil and Plant Scientists is projected to grow 6.7% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·29% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
- ·35% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Soil and Plant Scientist make?
The median Soil and Plant Scientist earns $79k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Soil and Plant Scientist jobs?
Our model puts Soil and Plant Scientist at 34 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 29% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace; 35% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Soil and Plant Scientist a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 6.7% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 1,400 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Soil and Plant Scientist?
Soil and Plant Scientist roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Soil and Plant Scientist?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Soil and Plant Scientist career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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