Studies origins, composition and distribution of soils and the materials from which soils are formed; investigates effect of land use practices on soil; analyses soil for elements and develops methods for altering soil characteristics to suit different plants; plans and coordinates management practices for the control of soil degradation due to erosion, cultivation, excess water or salinity; advises on moisture conservation, irrigation and drainage; advises on suitability of soil use for cropping, horticulture, pasture, forestry and alternative systems of land use, including waste disposal; advises on use of soil for engineering purposes and on restoration of soil following massive disturbances through mining and other exploitative operations.

• Frequently works indoors in offices or laboratories connected to universities, government or private research organisations.
• Frequently work outdoors on farms and other areas to carry out fieldwork in all weather conditions. Protective equipment and clothing may be required.
• Frequently works in adequately lit, heated, ventilated and clean, well maintained indoor workspaces that may include sterile laboratories.

• Medium physical demand, with frequent sitting in offices or laboratories at microscopes, computers or other scientific equipment.
• Frequently stands and walks in office and laboratory or in fieldwork situations to observe and collect soil samples.
• Occasional lifting, carrying or pulling within medium to heavy physical range when working with soils to collect samples. Occasional bending, squatting or crouching and stretching, reaching may be required for fieldwork.
• Occasional contact with skin irritants and/or water may be required depending upon the environment.
• Occasional driving of vehicles may be required for fieldwork.
• Occasional repetitive hand and finger movements are required when writing, using a keyboard and mouse and the use of general laboratory, sampling and testing equipment including ph metres and other measurement equipment.
• Mental skills necessary include a high level of cognitive functioning with technical, computing, research, laboratory, analytical, mathematical, report writing, communication, organisational, problem solving, and decision-making capabilities.

A relevant tertiary qualification or at least five years applicable experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 1). Particular experience and/or on-job training may be needed.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.