This occupation is part of the Life, Physical, and Social Science cluster
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About the Job
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.
It is also Called
- Agriculturist
- Agronomist
- Agronomy Professor
- Agronomy Research Manager
- Apiculturist
- Arboreal Scientist
- Arboriculturist
- Arborist
- Botanist
- Corn Breeder
What They Do
- Investigate soil problems and poor water quality to determine sources and effects.
- Identify or classify species of insects or allied forms, such as mites or spiders.
- Develop improved measurement techniques, soil conservation methods, soil sampling devices, or related technology.
- Consult with engineers or other technical personnel working on construction projects about the effects of soil problems and possible solutions to these problems.
- Develop new or improved methods or products for controlling or eliminating weeds, crop diseases, or insect pests.
- Conduct experiments to develop new or improved varieties of field crops, focusing on characteristics such as yield, quality, disease resistance, nutritional value, or adaptation to specific soils or climates.
- Develop ways of altering soils to suit different types of plants.
- Conduct experiments regarding causes of bee diseases or factors affecting yields of nectar or pollen.
- Communicate research or project results to other professionals or the public or teach related courses, seminars, or workshops.
- Develop methods of conserving or managing soil that can be applied by farmers or forestry companies.
Interests
People who work in this occupation generally have the interest code: IR.
This means people who work in this occupation generally have Investigative interests, but also prefer Realistic environments.
Work Values
People who work in this occupation generally prize Achievement, but also value Independence and Recognition in their jobs.
Things They Need to Know
- Biology - Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
- English Language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
- Chemistry - Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
- Mathematics - Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
- Education and Training - Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Things They Need to Be Able to Do
- Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
- Science - Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
- Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
- Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
- Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
- Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
- Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Education Required
Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).
Wages
In 2012, the average annual wage in Washington was $66,120.00 with most people making between $39,190.00 and $94,270.00
Outlook
During 2008, this occupation employed approximately 490 people in Washington. It is projected that there will be 540 employed in 2018.
This occupation will have about 5 openings due to growth and about 15 replacement openings for approximately 20 total annual openings.
Common College Majors
- Find Institutions Agriculture, General
- Find Institutions Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture
- Find Institutions Viticulture and Enology
- Find Institutions Plant Sciences, General
- Find Institutions Agronomy and Crop Science
- Find Institutions Horticultural Science
- Find Institutions Agricultural and Horticultural Plant Breeding
- Find Institutions Plant Protection and Integrated Pest Management
- Find Institutions Range Science and Management
- Find Institutions Plant Sciences, Other
- Find Institutions Soil Science and Agronomy, General
- Find Institutions Soil Chemistry and Physics
- Find Institutions Soil Microbiology
- Find Institutions Soil Sciences, Other
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