Overview:

Environmental Scientist and Specialist provide the means to comply with company programs and regulatory requirements though land and nutrient management facilities.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Study living organisms and their relationship to their environment
• Investigate the growth and characteristics of microscopic organisms such as bacteria, algae, or fungi
• Use biotechnology to advance knowledge of cell reproduction and disease in plants
• Direct nutrient analysis and establish testing systems for fertilizer products including on-site field tests and quality control
• Improve and develop products, lead research and development efforts to expand product lines
• Conduct tests to sample environmental products for the appearance of microscopic organisms
• Act as a liaison with other departments on microbiological and sanitation issues
• Manage ecological studies to assess the environmental fate of plant biotechnology traits and evaluate potential effects on soil organisms and microbial processes
• Research problems dealing with life processes and living organisms
• Conduct product development to preserve and repair the natural environment
• Work in teams, interacting with engineers, scientists of other disciplines, business managers, and technicians
• Analyze scientific data, and perform quality control checks
• Conduct various field research activities
• Characterize plants for agronomic traits and animals for development traits

What education and training is required?

A bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field, such as horticulture, chemistry or environmental science is required for some entry level positions. Positions that are research or specialty focused require a master’s or doctorate degree.

To pursue a career as an Environmental Scientist & Specialist:

The following high school courses are recommended:agricultural education, a focus on science, earth science, biology, botany, chemistry, and mathematics.

Typical Employers:

Employed by research firms, governmental organizations, schools/universities and environmental organizations.

Future Job Market/Outlook:

The future outlook for Environmental Scientist and Specialist is projected to be excellent.

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations:

• Ecological Society of America
• American Society of Plant Biologist
• American Society of Microbiology
• World Association of Soil and Water Conservation