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.
Soil and Plant Scientists
SOC: 19-1013 O*NET: 19-1013.00
Median Salary
$71,410
per year
Job Growth
📈 5.4%
Faster (2024-2034)
Annual Openings
1.7
projected jobs/year
Education Level
Bachelor's degree plus work experience, or graduate degree
Job Zone 5
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.
Overview
Compensation & Benefits
Salary Distribution by Percentile
Understanding where you might fall in the salary range based on experience and location.
10th
$42,846
25th
$57,128
50th (Median)
$71,410
75th
$85,692
90th
$107,115
Percentile Explained: If you're in the 75th percentile, you earn more than 75% of workers in this occupation. Entry-level positions typically fall in the 10th-25th percentile range, while experienced professionals often reach the 75th-90th percentile.
Typical Benefits Package
Health & Wellness
- ✓Health Insurance
- ✓Dental Insurance
- ✓Vision Insurance
- ✓Mental Health Support
- ✓Wellness Programs
Financial Benefits
- ✓401(k) Retirement Plan
- ✓Employer Match (typically 3-6%)
- ✓Profit Sharing
- ✓Stock Options
- ✓Performance Bonuses
Work-Life Balance
- ✓Paid Time Off (15-25 days)
- ✓Paid Sick Leave
- ✓Flexible Work Arrangements
- ✓Remote Work Options
- ✓Parental Leave
Professional Development
- ✓Tuition Reimbursement
- ✓Professional Certifications
- ✓Conference Attendance
- ✓Training Programs
- ✓Mentorship Opportunities
Note: Benefits vary widely by employer, company size, and location. Large corporations and tech companies often offer more comprehensive packages, while small businesses may offer fewer benefits but more flexibility. Always review the complete compensation package, not just base salary.
Job Market Intelligence
Job Market Intelligence
Medium Demand
Market demand
Medium Risk
Automation risk
Current Employment
National Employment:20,700
10-Year Outlook
Growth Rate:+5.4%
Annual Openings:1,700
Employment Projections
2024 (Current)20,700
Current
2034 (Projected)21,800
+5.4%
+1,100
Employment Change
+5.4%
Growth Rate
10
Year Projection
Growth Category: As fast as average
Key Growth Factors
- •Average growth expected
Top Skills
✓
Critical Thinking
Critical Thinking
✓
Science
Science
✓
Active Learning
Active Learning
✓
Reading Comprehension
Reading Comprehension
✓
Speaking
Speaking
✓
Complex Problem Solving
Complex Problem Solving
✓
Writing
Writing
✓
Active Listening
Active Listening
✓
Judgment and Decision Making
Judgment and Decision Making
✓
Systems Evaluation
Systems Evaluation
Key Knowledge Areas
✓
Biology
✓
English Language
✓
Computers and Electronics
✓
Chemistry
✓
Mathematics
✓
Education and Training
✓
Geography
✓
Communications and Media
✓
Engineering and Technology
✓
Administration and Management
Education & Training
Education Required
Bachelor's degree plus work experience, or graduate degree
Experience Required
Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience needed
Job Training
Extensive training and work experience required