Job Duties Custom List 19-1020.01 — Biologists
- Collect and analyze biological data about relationships among and between organisms and their environment.
Occupations with related tasks Save Table: XLSX CSV
- Collect and analyze biological data about relationships among and between organisms and their environment.
- Study and manage wild animal populations.
- Identify, classify, and study structure, behavior, ecology, physiology, nutrition, culture, and distribution of plant and animal species.
- Study reactions of plants, animals, and marine species to parasites.
- Prepare technical and research reports, such as environmental impact reports, and communicate the results to individuals in industry, government, or the general public.
- Develop and maintain liaisons and effective working relations with groups and individuals, agencies, and the public to encourage cooperative management strategies or to develop information and interpret findings.
- Supervise biological technicians and technologists and other scientists.
- Communicate test results to state and federal representatives and general public.
- Prepare requests for proposals or statements of work.
- Represent employer in a technical capacity at conferences.
- Review reports and proposals, such as those relating to land use classifications and recreational development, for accuracy, adequacy, or adherence to policies, regulations, or scientific standards.
- Develop methods and apparatus for securing representative plant, animal, aquatic, or soil samples.
- Plan and administer biological research programs for government, research firms, medical industries, or manufacturing firms.
- Write grant proposals to obtain funding for biological research.
- Research environmental effects of present and potential uses of land and water areas, determining methods of improving environmental conditions or such outputs as crop yields.
- Measure salinity, acidity, light, oxygen content, and other physical conditions of water to determine their relationship to aquatic life.
- Prepare plans for management of renewable resources.
- Teach or supervise students and perform research at universities and colleges.
- Program and use computers to store, process, and analyze data.
- Study basic principles of plant and animal life, such as origin, relationship, development, anatomy, and function.
- Study aquatic plants and animals and environmental conditions affecting them, such as radioactivity or pollution.
- Develop pest management and control measures, and conduct risk assessments related to pest exclusion, using scientific methods.
- Collect and analyze biological data about relationships among and between organisms and their environment.
- Study and manage wild animal populations.
- Identify, classify, and study structure, behavior, ecology, physiology, nutrition, culture, and distribution of plant and animal species.
- Study reactions of plants, animals, and marine species to parasites.
- Conduct experiments investigating how soil forms, changes, or interacts with land-based ecosystems or living organisms.
- Study insect distribution or habitat and recommend methods to prevent importation or spread of injurious species.
- Conduct experiments regarding causes of bee diseases or factors affecting yields of nectar or pollen.
- Identify or classify species of insects or allied forms, such as mites or spiders.
- 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.
- Provide information or recommendations to farmers or other landowners regarding ways in which they can best use land, promote plant growth, or avoid or correct problems such as erosion.
- 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.
- Investigate soil problems or poor water quality to determine sources and effects.
- Investigate responses of soils to specific management practices to determine the use capabilities of soils and the effects of alternative practices on soil productivity.
- Conduct experiments to investigate the underlying mechanisms of plant growth and response to the environment.
- Identify degraded or contaminated soils and develop plans to improve their chemical, biological, or physical characteristics.
- Develop new or improved methods or products for controlling or eliminating weeds, crop diseases, or insect pests.
- Provide advice regarding the development of regulatory standards for land reclamation or soil conservation.
- Study soil characteristics to classify soils on the basis of factors such as geographic location, landscape position, or soil properties.
- Develop improved measurement techniques, soil conservation methods, soil sampling devices, or related technology.
- Conduct research to determine best methods of planting, spraying, cultivating, harvesting, storing, processing, or transporting horticultural products.
- Develop environmentally safe methods or products for controlling or eliminating weeds, crop diseases, or pests.
- Study ways to improve agricultural sustainability, such as the use of new methods of composting.
- Consult with engineers or other technical personnel working on construction projects about the effects of soil problems and possible solutions to these problems.
- Perform chemical analyses of the microorganism content of soils to determine microbial reactions or chemical mineralogical relationships to plant growth.
- Develop ways of altering soils to suit different types of plants.
- Survey undisturbed or disturbed lands for classification, inventory, mapping, environmental impact assessments, environmental protection planning, conservation planning, or reclamation planning.
- Plan or supervise waste management programs for composting or farming.
- Research technical requirements or environmental impacts of urban green spaces, such as green roof installations.
- Plan or supervise land conservation or reclamation programs for industrial development projects.
- Conduct research into the use of plant species as green fuels or in the production of green fuels.
- Conduct experiments investigating how soil forms, changes, or interacts with land-based ecosystems or living organisms.
- Study insect distribution or habitat and recommend methods to prevent importation or spread of injurious species.
- Conduct experiments regarding causes of bee diseases or factors affecting yields of nectar or pollen.
- Identify or classify species of insects or allied forms, such as mites or spiders.
- Gather data from sources such as surface or upper air stations, satellites, weather bureaus, or radar for use in meteorological reports or forecasts.
- Collect air samples from planes or ships over land or sea to study atmospheric composition.
- Broadcast weather conditions, forecasts, or severe weather warnings to the public via television, radio, or the Internet or provide this information to the news media.
- Develop or use mathematical or computer models for weather forecasting.
- Prepare weather reports or maps for analysis, distribution, or use in weather broadcasts, using computer graphics.
- Interpret data, reports, maps, photographs, or charts to predict long- or short-range weather conditions, using computer models and knowledge of climate theory, physics, and mathematics.
- Prepare forecasts or briefings to meet the needs of industry, business, government, or other groups.
- Analyze historical climate information, such as precipitation or temperature records, to help predict future weather or climate trends.
- Analyze climate data sets, using techniques such as geophysical fluid dynamics, data assimilation, or numerical modeling.
- Conduct numerical simulations of climate conditions to understand and predict global or regional weather patterns.
- Conduct meteorological research into the processes or determinants of atmospheric phenomena, weather, or climate.
- Consult with other offices, agencies, professionals, or researchers regarding the use and interpretation of climatological information for weather predictions and warnings.
- Prepare scientific atmospheric or climate reports, articles, or texts.
- Speak to the public to discuss weather topics or answer questions.
- Develop computer programs to collect meteorological data or to present meteorological information.
- Develop and deliver training on weather topics.
- Apply meteorological knowledge to issues such as global warming, pollution control, or ozone depletion.
- Design or develop new equipment or methods for meteorological data collection, remote sensing, or related applications.
- Measure wind, temperature, and humidity in the upper atmosphere, using weather balloons.
- Direct forecasting services at weather stations or at radio or television broadcasting facilities.
- Research the impact of industrial projects or pollution on climate, air quality, or weather phenomena.
- Conduct wind assessment, integration, or validation studies.
- Teach college-level courses on topics such as atmospheric and space science, meteorology, or global climate change.
- Create visualizations to illustrate historical or future changes in the Earth's climate, using paleoclimate or climate geographic information systems (GIS) databases.
- Estimate or predict the effects of global warming over time for specific geographic regions.
- Formulate predictions by interpreting environmental data, such as meteorological, atmospheric, oceanic, paleoclimate, climate, or related information.
- Perform managerial duties, such as creating work schedules, creating or implementing staff training, matching staff expertise to situations, or analyzing performance of offices.
- Gather data from sources such as surface or upper air stations, satellites, weather bureaus, or radar for use in meteorological reports or forecasts.
- Collect air samples from planes or ships over land or sea to study atmospheric composition.
- Collect remote sensing data for forest or carbon tracking activities involved in assessing the impact of environmental change.
- Collect geospatial data, using technologies such as aerial photography, light and radio wave detection systems, digital satellites, or thermal energy systems.
- Collect verification data on the ground, using equipment such as global positioning receivers, digital cameras, or notebook computers.
- Consult with remote sensing scientists, surveyors, cartographers, or engineers to determine project needs.
- Adjust remotely sensed images for optimum presentation by using software to select image displays, define image set categories, or choose processing routines.
- Manipulate raw data to enhance interpretation, either on the ground or during remote sensing flights.
- Merge scanned images or build photo mosaics of large areas, using image processing software.
- Prepare documentation or presentations, including charts, photos, or graphs.
- Correct raw data for errors due to factors such as skew or atmospheric variation.
- Calibrate data collection equipment.
- Develop or maintain geospatial information databases.
- Monitor raw data quality during collection, and make equipment corrections as necessary.
- Maintain records of survey data.
- Operate airborne remote sensing equipment, such as survey cameras, sensors, or scanners.
- Document methods used and write technical reports containing information collected.
- Develop specialized computer software routines to customize and integrate image analysis.
- Provide remote sensing data for use in addressing environmental issues, such as surface water modeling or dust cloud detection.
- Verify integrity and accuracy of data contained in remote sensing image analysis systems.
- Integrate remotely sensed data with other geospatial data.
- Participate in the planning or development of mapping projects.
- Evaluate remote sensing project requirements to determine the types of equipment or computer software necessary to meet project requirements, such as specific image types or output resolutions.
- Collaborate with agricultural workers to apply remote sensing information to efforts to reduce negative environmental impacts of farming practices.
- Collect remote sensing data for forest or carbon tracking activities involved in assessing the impact of environmental change.
- Collect geospatial data, using technologies such as aerial photography, light and radio wave detection systems, digital satellites, or thermal energy systems.
- Collect verification data on the ground, using equipment such as global positioning receivers, digital cameras, or notebook computers.
- Install gauges, stream flow recorders, and soil moisture measuring instruments, and collect and record data from them to assist with watershed analysis.
- Inspect trees and collect samples of plants, seeds, foliage, bark, and roots to locate insect and disease damage.
- Thin and space trees and control weeds and undergrowth, using manual tools and chemicals, or supervise workers performing these tasks.
- Train and lead forest and conservation workers in seasonal activities, such as planting tree seedlings, putting out forest fires, and maintaining recreational facilities.
- Provide information about, and enforce, regulations, such as those concerning environmental protection, resource utilization, fire safety, and accident prevention.
- Map forest tract data using digital mapping systems.
- Keep records of the amount and condition of logs taken to mills.
- Manage forest protection activities, including fire control, fire crew training, and coordination of fire detection and public education programs.
- Monitor activities of logging companies and contractors.
- Perform reforestation or forest renewal, including nursery and silviculture operations, site preparation, seeding and tree planting programs, cone collection, and tree improvement.
- Plan and supervise construction of access routes and forest roads.
- Supervise forest nursery operations, timber harvesting, land use activities such as livestock grazing, and disease or insect control programs.
- Develop and maintain computer databases.
- Measure distances, clean sightlines, and record data to help survey crews.
- Issue fire permits, timber permits, and other forest use licenses.
- Survey, measure, and map access roads and forest areas such as burns, cut-over areas, experimental plots, and timber sales sections.
- Provide forestry education and general information, advice, and recommendations to woodlot owners, community organizations, and the general public.
- Provide technical support to forestry research programs in areas such as tree improvement, seed orchard operations, insect and disease surveys, or experimental forestry and forest engineering research.
- Patrol park or forest areas to protect resources and prevent damage.
- Select and mark trees for thinning or logging, drawing detailed plans that include access roads.
- Conduct laboratory or field experiments with plants, animals, insects, diseases, and soils.
- Install gauges, stream flow recorders, and soil moisture measuring instruments, and collect and record data from them to assist with watershed analysis.
- Inspect trees and collect samples of plants, seeds, foliage, bark, and roots to locate insect and disease damage.
- Collect data on underground areas, such as reservoirs, that could be used in carbon sequestration operations.
- Collect geological data from potential geothermal energy plant sites.
- Test and analyze samples to determine their content and characteristics, using laboratory apparatus or testing equipment.
- Collect or prepare solid or fluid samples for analysis.
- Compile, log, or record testing or operational data for review and further analysis.
- Prepare notes, sketches, geological maps, or cross-sections.
- Participate in geological, geophysical, geochemical, hydrographic, or oceanographic surveys, prospecting field trips, exploratory drilling, well logging, or underground mine survey programs.
- Prepare or review professional, technical, or other reports regarding sampling, testing, or recommendations of data analysis.
- Adjust or repair testing, electrical, or mechanical equipment or devices.
- Read and study reports in order to compile information and data for geological and geophysical prospecting.
- Interview individuals, and research public databases in order to obtain information.
- Plot information from aerial photographs, well logs, section descriptions, or other databases.
- Assemble, maintain, or distribute information for library or record systems.
- Operate or adjust equipment or apparatus used to obtain geological data.
- Plan and direct activities of workers who operate equipment to collect data.
- Set up or direct set-up of instruments used to collect geological data.
- Record readings in order to compile data used in prospecting for oil or gas.
- Create photographic recordings of information, using equipment.
- Measure geological characteristics used in prospecting for oil or gas, using measuring instruments.
- Participate in the evaluation of possible mining locations.
- Assess the environmental impacts of development projects on subsurface materials.
- Evaluate and interpret core samples and cuttings, and other geological data used in prospecting for oil or gas.
- Supervise well exploration, drilling activities, or well completions.
- Inspect engines for wear or defective parts, using equipment or measuring devices.
- Develop and design packing materials and handling procedures for shipping of objects.
- Collaborate with hydrogeologists to evaluate groundwater or well circulation.
- Apply new technologies, such as improved seismic imaging techniques, to locate untapped oil or natural gas deposits.
- Compile data used to address environmental issues, such as the suitability of potential landfill sites.
- Conduct geophysical surveys of potential sites for wind farms or solar installations to determine their suitability.
- Evaluate and interpret seismic data with the aid of computers.
- Collect data on underground areas, such as reservoirs, that could be used in carbon sequestration operations.
- Collect geological data from potential geothermal energy plant sites.
- Collect water and soil samples to test for physical, chemical, or biological properties, such as pH, oxygen level, temperature, and pollution.
- Analyze ecological data about the impact of pollution, erosion, floods, and other environmental problems on bodies of water.
- Answer technical questions from hydrologists, policymakers, or other customers developing water conservation plans.
- Apply research findings to minimize the environmental impacts of pollution, waterborne diseases, erosion, or sedimentation.
- Assist in designing programs to ensure the proper sealing of abandoned wells.
- Develop computer models for hydrologic predictions.
- Estimate the costs and benefits of municipal projects, such as hydroelectric power plants, irrigation systems, and wastewater treatment facilities.
- Investigate complaints or conflicts related to the alteration of public waters by gathering information, recommending alternatives, or preparing legal documents.
- Investigate the properties, origins, or activities of glaciers, ice, snow, or permafrost.
- Locate and deliver information or data as requested by customers, such as contractors, government entities, and members of the public.
- Measure the properties of bodies of water, such as water levels, volume, and flow.
- Perform quality control checks on data to be used by hydrologists.
- Prepare, install, maintain, or repair equipment used for hydrologic study, such as water level recorders, stream flow gauges, and water analyzers.
- Provide real time data to emergency management and weather service personnel during flood events.
- Write groundwater contamination reports on known, suspected, or potential hazardous waste sites.
- Write materials for research publications, such as maps, tables, and reports, to disseminate findings.
- Collect water and soil samples to test for physical, chemical, or biological properties, such as pH, oxygen level, temperature, and pollution.
- Conduct own research in field of expertise.
- Hire, supervise, or evaluate engineers, technicians, researchers, or other staff.
- Design or coordinate successive phases of problem analysis, solution proposals, or testing.
- Plan or direct research, development, or production activities.
- Review project activities and prepare and review research, testing, or operational reports.
- Confer with scientists, engineers, regulators, or others to plan or review projects or to provide technical assistance.
- Develop client relationships and communicate with clients to explain proposals, present research findings, establish specifications, or discuss project status.
- Determine scientific or technical goals within broad outlines provided by top management and make detailed plans to accomplish these goals.
- Prepare project proposals.
- Develop or implement policies, standards, or procedures for the architectural, scientific, or technical work performed to ensure regulatory compliance or operations enhancement.
- Recruit personnel or oversee the development or maintenance of staff competence.
- Prepare and administer budgets, approve and review expenditures, and prepare financial reports.
- Develop innovative technology or train staff for its implementation.
- Make presentations at professional meetings to further knowledge in the field.
- Provide for stewardship of plant or animal resources or habitats, studying land use, monitoring animal populations, or providing shelter, resources, or medical treatment for animals.
- Advise or assist in obtaining patents or meeting other legal requirements.
- Conduct own research in field of expertise.
- Collect samples of air, water, gases, or solids to determine radioactivity levels of contamination.
- Brief workers on radiation levels in work areas.
- Calculate safe radiation exposure times for personnel using plant contamination readings and prescribed safe levels of radiation.
- Monitor personnel to determine the amounts and intensities of radiation exposure.
- Inform supervisors when individual exposures or area radiation levels approach maximum permissible limits.
- Determine intensities and types of radiation in work areas, equipment, or materials, using radiation detectors or other instruments.
- Instruct personnel in radiation safety procedures and demonstrate use of protective clothing and equipment.
- Analyze samples, such as air or water samples, for contaminants or other elements.
- Determine or recommend radioactive decontamination procedures, according to the size and nature of equipment and the degree of contamination.
- Set up equipment that automatically detects area radiation deviations and test detection equipment to ensure its accuracy.
- Prepare reports describing contamination tests, material or equipment decontaminated, or methods used in decontamination processes.
- Decontaminate objects by cleaning with soap or solvents or by abrading with wire brushes, buffing wheels, or sandblasting machines.
- Enter data into computers to record characteristics of nuclear events or to locate coordinates of particles.
- Calibrate and maintain chemical instrumentation sensing elements and sampling system equipment, using calibration instruments and hand tools.
- Immerse samples in chemical compounds to prepare them for testing.
- Confer with scientists directing projects to determine significant events to monitor during tests.
- Operate manipulators from outside cells to move specimens into or out of shielded containers, to remove specimens from cells, or to place specimens on benches or equipment work stations.
- Provide initial response to abnormal events or to alarms from radiation monitoring equipment.
- Place radioactive waste, such as sweepings or broken sample bottles, into containers for shipping or disposal.
- Collect samples of air, water, gases, or solids to determine radioactivity levels of contamination.
- Collect and analyze data to compare the environmental implications of economic policy or practice alternatives.
- Write technical documents or academic articles to communicate study results or economic forecasts.
- Conduct research on economic and environmental topics, such as alternative fuel use, public and private land use, soil conservation, air and water pollution control, and endangered species protection.
- Assess the costs and benefits of various activities, policies, or regulations that affect the environment or natural resource stocks.
- Prepare and deliver presentations to communicate economic and environmental study results, to present policy recommendations, or to raise awareness of environmental consequences.
- Develop programs or policy recommendations to achieve environmental goals in cost-effective ways.
- Develop economic models, forecasts, or scenarios to predict future economic and environmental outcomes.
- Demonstrate or promote the economic benefits of sound environmental regulations.
- Conduct research to study the relationships among environmental problems and patterns of economic production and consumption.
- Perform complex, dynamic, and integrated mathematical modeling of ecological, environmental, or economic systems.
- Write social, legal, or economic impact statements to inform decision makers for natural resource policies, standards, or programs.
- Teach courses in environmental economics.
- Develop programs or policy recommendations to promote sustainability and sustainable development.
- Develop systems for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting environmental and economic data.
- Write research proposals and grant applications to obtain private or public funding for environmental and economic studies.
- Examine the exhaustibility of natural resources or the long-term costs of environmental rehabilitation.
- Monitor or analyze market and environmental trends.
- Develop environmental research project plans, including information on budgets, goals, deliverables, timelines, and resource requirements.
- Identify and recommend environmentally friendly business practices.
- Interpret indicators to ascertain the overall health of an environment.
- Collect and analyze data to compare the environmental implications of economic policy or practice alternatives.
- Collect air, water, gas or solid samples for testing to determine radioactivity levels or to ensure appropriate radioactive containment.
- Follow nuclear equipment operational policies and procedures that ensure environmental safety.
- Conduct surveillance testing to determine safety of nuclear equipment.
- Monitor nuclear reactor equipment performance to identify operational inefficiencies, hazards, or needs for maintenance or repair.
- Test plant equipment to ensure it is operating properly.
- Apply safety tags to equipment needing maintenance.
- Follow policies and procedures for radiation workers to ensure personnel safety.
- Modify, devise, or maintain nuclear equipment used in operations.
- Monitor instruments, gauges, or recording devices under direction of nuclear experimenters.
- Perform testing, maintenance, repair, or upgrading of accelerator systems.
- Adjust controls of equipment to control particle beam movement, pulse rates, energy or intensity, or radiation, according to specifications.
- Warn maintenance workers of radiation hazards and direct workers to vacate hazardous areas.
- Calculate equipment operating factors, such as radiation times, dosages, temperatures, gamma intensities, or pressures, using standard formulas and conversion tables.
- Measure the intensity and identify the types of radiation in work areas, equipment, or materials, using radiation detectors or other instruments.
- Communicate with accelerator maintenance personnel to ensure readiness of support systems, such as vacuum, water cooling, or radio frequency power sources.
- Set control panel switches to route electric power from sources and direct particle beams through injector units.
- Identify and implement appropriate decontamination procedures, based on equipment and the size, nature, and type of contamination.
- Decontaminate objects by cleaning them using soap or solvents or by abrading using brushes, buffing machines, or sandblasting machines.
- Prepare reports to communicate information such as contamination test results, decontamination results, or decontamination procedures.
- Determine or recommend radioactive decontamination procedures, according to the size and nature of equipment and the degree of contamination.
- Set up equipment that automatically detects area radiation deviations and test detection equipment to ensure its accuracy.
- Collect air, water, gas or solid samples for testing to determine radioactivity levels or to ensure appropriate radioactive containment.
- Collect and analyze data to determine environmental conditions and restoration needs.
- Develop environmental restoration project schedules and budgets.
- Provide technical direction on environmental planning to energy engineers, biologists, geologists, or other professionals working to develop restoration plans or strategies.
- Create habitat management or restoration plans, such as native tree restoration and weed control.
- Conduct site assessments to certify a habitat or to ascertain environmental damage or restoration needs.
- Supervise and provide technical guidance, training, or assistance to employees working in the field to restore habitats.
- Plan environmental restoration projects, using biological databases, environmental strategies, and planning software.
- Communicate findings of environmental studies or proposals for environmental remediation to other restoration professionals.
- Apply for permits required for the implementation of environmental remediation projects.
- Inspect active remediation sites to ensure compliance with environmental or safety policies, standards, or regulations.
- Develop natural resource management plans, using knowledge of environmental planning or state and federal environmental regulatory requirements.
- Identify environmental mitigation alternatives, ensuring compliance with applicable standards, laws, or regulations.
- Identify short- and long-term impacts of environmental remediation activities.
- Notify regulatory or permitting agencies of deviations from implemented remediation plans.
- Write grants to obtain funding for restoration projects.
- Plan or supervise environmental studies to achieve compliance with environmental regulations in construction, modification, operation, acquisition, or divestiture of facilities such as power plants.
- Review existing environmental remediation designs.
- Develop and communicate recommendations for landowners to maintain or restore environmental conditions.
- Conduct feasibility and cost-benefit studies for environmental remediation projects.
- Conduct environmental impact studies to examine the ecological effects of pollutants, disease, human activities, nature, and climate change.
- Create environmental models or simulations, using geographic information system (GIS) data and knowledge of particular ecosystems or ecological regions.
- Create diagrams to communicate environmental remediation planning, using geographic information systems (GIS), computer-aided design (CAD), or other mapping or diagramming software.
- Develop environmental management or restoration plans for sites with power transmission lines, natural gas pipelines, fuel refineries, geothermal plants, wind farms, or solar farms.
- Collect and analyze data to determine environmental conditions and restoration needs.
- Collect supporting data, such as climatic or field survey data, to corroborate remote sensing data analyses.
- Manage or analyze data obtained from remote sensing systems to obtain meaningful results.
- Analyze data acquired from aircraft, satellites, or ground-based platforms, using statistical analysis software, image analysis software, or Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
- Integrate other geospatial data sources into projects.
- Organize and maintain geospatial data and associated documentation.
- Compile and format image data to increase its usefulness.
- Prepare or deliver reports or presentations of geospatial project information.
- Process aerial or satellite imagery to create products such as land cover maps.
- Design or implement strategies for collection, analysis, or display of geographic data.
- Develop or build databases for remote sensing or related geospatial project information.
- Train technicians in the use of remote sensing technology.
- Set up or maintain remote sensing data collection systems.
- Direct all activity associated with implementation, operation, or enhancement of remote sensing hardware or software.
- Attend meetings or seminars or read current literature to maintain knowledge of developments in the field of remote sensing.
- Conduct research into the application or enhancement of remote sensing technology.
- Recommend new remote sensing hardware or software acquisitions.
- Use remote sensing data for forest or carbon tracking activities to assess the impact of environmental change.
- Develop automated routines to correct for the presence of image distorting artifacts, such as ground vegetation.
- Apply remote sensing data or techniques, such as surface water modeling or dust cloud detection, to address environmental issues.
- Direct installation or testing of new remote sensing hardware or software.
- Discuss project goals, equipment requirements, or methodologies with colleagues or team members.
- Monitor quality of remote sensing data collection operations to determine if procedural or equipment changes are necessary.
- Develop new analytical techniques or sensor systems.
- Participate in fieldwork.
- Collect supporting data, such as climatic or field survey data, to corroborate remote sensing data analyses.
- Study different tree species' classification, life history, light and soil requirements, adaptation to new environmental conditions and resistance to disease and insects.
- Monitor contract compliance and results of forestry activities to assure adherence to government regulations.
- Plan and implement projects for conservation of wildlife habitats and soil and water quality.
- Establish short- and long-term plans for management of forest lands and forest resources.
- Plan cutting programs and manage timber sales from harvested areas, assisting companies to achieve production goals.
- Determine methods of cutting and removing timber with minimum waste and environmental damage.
- Perform inspections of forests or forest nurseries.
- Map forest area soils and vegetation to estimate the amount of standing timber and future value and growth.
- Monitor forest-cleared lands to ensure that they are reclaimed to their most suitable end use.
- Develop techniques for measuring and identifying trees.
- Supervise activities of other forestry workers.
- Plan and direct forest surveys and related studies and prepare reports and recommendations.
- Provide advice and recommendations, as a consultant on forestry issues, to private woodlot owners, firefighters, government agencies or to companies.
- Plan and supervise forestry projects, such as determining the type, number and placement of trees to be planted, managing tree nurseries, thinning forest and monitoring growth of new seedlings.
- Choose and prepare sites for new trees, using controlled burning, bulldozers, or herbicides to clear weeds, brush, and logging debris.
- Direct, and participate in, forest fire suppression.
- Analyze effect of forest conditions on tree growth rates and tree species prevalence and the yield, duration, seed production, growth viability, and germination of different species.
- Plan and direct construction and maintenance of recreation facilities, fire towers, trails, roads and bridges, ensuring that they comply with guidelines and regulations set for forested public lands.
- Conduct public educational programs on forest care and conservation.
- Monitor wildlife populations and assess the impacts of forest operations on population and habitats.
- Develop new techniques for wood or residue use.
- Negotiate terms and conditions of agreements and contracts for forest harvesting, forest management and leasing of forest lands.
- Procure timber from private landowners.
- Subcontract with loggers or pulpwood cutters for tree removal and to aid in road layout.
- Contact local forest owners and gain permission to take inventory of the type, amount, and location of all standing timber on the property.
- Study different tree species' classification, life history, light and soil requirements, adaptation to new environmental conditions and resistance to disease and insects.
- Collect and analyze water samples as part of field investigations or to validate data from automatic monitors.
- Prepare written and oral reports describing research results, using illustrations, maps, appendices, and other information.
- Design and conduct scientific hydrogeological investigations to ensure that accurate and appropriate information is available for use in water resource management decisions.
- Measure and graph phenomena such as lake levels, stream flows, and changes in water volumes.
- Conduct research and communicate information to promote the conservation and preservation of water resources.
- Coordinate and supervise the work of professional and technical staff, including research assistants, technologists, and technicians.
- Study public water supply issues, including flood and drought risks, water quality, wastewater, and impacts on wetland habitats.
- Apply research findings to help minimize the environmental impacts of pollution, waterborne diseases, erosion, and sedimentation.
- Study and document quantities, distribution, disposition, and development of underground and surface waters.
- Install, maintain, and calibrate instruments such as those that monitor water levels, rainfall, and sediments.
- Develop computer models for hydrologic predictions.
- Study and analyze the physical aspects of the earth in terms of hydrological components, including atmosphere, hydrosphere, and interior structure.
- Evaluate research data in terms of its impact on issues such as soil and water conservation, flood control planning, and water supply forecasting.
- Prepare hydrogeologic evaluations of known or suspected hazardous waste sites and land treatment and feedlot facilities.
- Evaluate data and provide recommendations regarding the feasibility of municipal projects, such as hydroelectric power plants, irrigation systems, flood warning systems, and waste treatment facilities.
- Develop or modify methods for conducting hydrologic studies.
- Review applications for site plans and permits and recommend approval, denial, modification, or further investigative action.
- Monitor the work of well contractors, exploratory borers, and engineers and enforce rules regarding their activities.
- Answer questions and provide technical assistance and information to contractors or the public regarding issues such as well drilling, code requirements, hydrology, and geology.
- Investigate properties, origins, and activities of glaciers, ice, snow, and permafrost.
- Conduct short- and long-term climate assessments and study storm occurrences.
- Administer programs designed to ensure the proper sealing of abandoned wells.
- Compile and evaluate hydrologic information to prepare navigational charts and maps and to predict atmospheric conditions.
- Investigate complaints or conflicts related to the alteration of public waters, gathering information, recommending alternatives, informing participants of progress, and preparing draft orders.
- Design civil works associated with hydrographic activities and supervise their construction, installation, and maintenance.
- Collect and analyze water samples as part of field investigations or to validate data from automatic monitors.
- Collect samples of gases, soils, water, industrial wastewater, or asbestos products to conduct tests on pollutant levels or identify sources of pollution.
- Record test data and prepare reports, summaries, or charts that interpret test results.
- Prepare samples or photomicrographs for testing and analysis.
- Discuss test results and analyses with customers.
- Weigh, analyze, or measure collected sample particles, such as lead, coal dust, or rock, to determine concentration of pollutants.
- Calibrate microscopes or test instruments.
- Provide information or technical or program assistance to government representatives, employers, or the general public on the issues of public health, environmental protection, or workplace safety.
- Maintain files, such as hazardous waste databases, chemical usage data, personnel exposure information, or diagrams showing equipment locations.
- Set up equipment or stations to monitor and collect pollutants from sites, such as smoke stacks, manufacturing plants, or mechanical equipment.
- Develop or implement programs for monitoring of environmental pollution or radiation.
- Monitor emission control devices to ensure they are operating properly and comply with state and federal regulations.
- Make recommendations to control or eliminate unsafe conditions at workplaces or public facilities.
- Develop testing procedures.
- Perform statistical analysis of environmental data.
- Develop or implement site recycling or hazardous waste stream programs.
- Direct activities of workers in laboratory.
- Analyze potential environmental impacts of production process changes, and recommend steps to mitigate negative impacts.
- Inspect sanitary conditions at public facilities.
- Conduct standardized tests to ensure materials or supplies used throughout power supply systems meet processing and safety specifications.
- Determine amounts and kinds of chemicals to use in destroying harmful organisms or removing impurities from purification systems.
- Examine and analyze material for presence and concentration of contaminants, such as asbestos, using variety of microscopes.
- Distribute permits, closure plans, or cleanup plans.
- Investigate hazardous conditions or spills or outbreaks of disease or food poisoning, collecting samples for analysis.
- Inspect workplaces to ensure the absence of health and safety hazards, such as high noise levels, radiation, or potential lighting hazards.
- Calculate amount of pollutant in samples or compute air pollution or gas flow in industrial processes, using chemical and mathematical formulas.
- Initiate procedures to close down or fine establishments violating environmental or health regulations.
- Collect samples of gases, soils, water, industrial wastewater, or asbestos products to conduct tests on pollutant levels or identify sources of pollution.
- Investigate the adaptability of various animal and plant species to changed environmental conditions.
- Identify environmental impacts caused by products, systems, or projects.
- Identify or develop strategies or methods to minimize the environmental impact of industrial production processes.
- Analyze changes designed to improve the environmental performance of complex systems and avoid unintended negative consequences.
- Conduct environmental sustainability assessments, using material flow analysis (MFA) or substance flow analysis (SFA) techniques.
- Identify sustainable alternatives to industrial or waste-management practices.
- Review research literature to maintain knowledge on topics related to industrial ecology, such as physical science, technology, economy, and public policy.
- Redesign linear, or open-loop, systems into cyclical, or closed-loop, systems so that waste products become inputs for new processes, modeling natural ecosystems.
- Prepare technical and research reports, such as environmental impact reports, and communicate the results to individuals in industry, government, or the general public.
- Monitor the environmental impact of development activities, pollution, or land degradation.
- Build and maintain databases of information about energy alternatives, pollutants, natural environments, industrial processes, and other information related to ecological change.
- Perform analyses to determine how human behavior can affect, and be affected by, changes in the environment.
- Recommend methods to protect the environment or minimize environmental damage from industrial production practices.
- Translate the theories of industrial ecology into eco-industrial practices.
- Develop alternative energy investment scenarios to compare economic and environmental costs and benefits.
- Carry out environmental assessments in accordance with applicable standards, regulations, or laws.
- Examine societal issues and their relationship with both technical systems and the environment.
- Plan or conduct field research on topics such as industrial production, industrial ecology, population ecology, and environmental production or sustainability.
- Create complex and dynamic mathematical models of population, community, or ecological systems.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of industrial ecology programs, using statistical analysis and applications.
- Forecast future status or condition of ecosystems, based on changing industrial practices or environmental conditions.
- Apply new or existing research about natural ecosystems to understand economic and industrial systems in the context of the environment.
- Prepare plans to manage renewable resources.
- Identify or compare the component parts or relationships between the parts of industrial, social, and natural systems.
- Plan or conduct studies of the ecological implications of historic or projected changes in industrial processes or development.
- Research sources of pollution to determine environmental impact or to develop methods of pollution abatement or control.
- Perform environmentally extended input-output (EE I-O) analyses.
- Promote use of environmental management systems (EMS) to reduce waste or to improve environmentally sound use of natural resources.
- Investigate the impact of changed land management or land use practices on ecosystems.
- Develop or test protocols to monitor ecosystem components and ecological processes.
- Research environmental effects of land and water use to determine methods of improving environmental conditions or increasing outputs, such as crop yields.
- Provide industrial managers with technical materials on environmental issues, regulatory guidelines, or compliance actions.
- Conduct applied research on the effects of industrial processes on the protection, restoration, inventory, monitoring, or reintroduction of species to the natural environment.
- Conduct scientific protection, mitigation, or restoration projects to prevent resource damage, maintain the integrity of critical habitats, and minimize the impact of human activities.
- Investigate accidents affecting the environment to assess ecological impact.
- Examine local, regional, or global use and flow of materials or energy in industrial production processes.
- Review industrial practices, such as the methods and materials used in construction or production, to identify potential liabilities and environmental hazards.
- Conduct analyses to determine the maximum amount of work that can be accomplished for a given amount of energy in a system, such as industrial production systems and waste treatment systems.
- Investigate the adaptability of various animal and plant species to changed environmental conditions.
