How to become soil and plant scientistseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$78,850
25th–75th pct. $61,660–$103,740
Top pay (est.)
$179,600
Top 10% $138,120
Pay in 5 years
$90,800est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$104,600est.
$89,900–$121,400
Outlook score
64/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
59%
Moderate
Job growth (10 yr)
+6.7%
1,400 openings / yr
How to become soil and plant scientists
Typical education
Bachelor's degree
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
None
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Soil and Plant Scientists
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Thinking CreativelyUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkProcessing InformationMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsAnalyzing Data or InformationCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesCommunicating with People Outside the Organization
Important abilities
Oral ComprehensionWritten ComprehensionOral ExpressionInductive ReasoningDeductive ReasoningWritten Expression
Education of workers
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 5 — extensive preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★★★☆ Demanding (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as soil and plant scientists
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.