- Use geospatial technology to develop soil sampling grids or identify sampling sites for testing characteristics such as nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium content, pH, or micronutrients.
Occupations with related tasks Save Table: XLSX CSV
- Identify risks for natural disasters, such as mudslides, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions.
- Analyze and interpret geological data, using computer software.
- Analyze and interpret geological, geochemical, or geophysical information from sources, such as survey data, well logs, bore holes, or aerial photos.
- Locate and estimate probable natural gas, oil, or mineral ore deposits or underground water resources, using aerial photographs, charts, or research or survey results.
- Test industrial diamonds or abrasives, soil, or rocks to determine their geological characteristics, using optical, x-ray, heat, acid, or precision instruments.
- Identify deposits of construction materials suitable for use as concrete aggregates, road fill, or other applications.
- Identify new sources of platinum group elements for industrial applications, such as automotive fuel cells or pollution abatement systems.
- Locate potential sources of geothermal energy.
- Plan or conduct geological, geochemical, or geophysical field studies or surveys, sample collection, or drilling and testing programs used to collect data for research or application.
- Investigate the composition, structure, or history of the Earth's crust through the collection, examination, measurement, or classification of soils, minerals, rocks, or fossil remains.
- Prepare geological maps, cross-sectional diagrams, charts, or reports concerning mineral extraction, land use, or resource management, using results of fieldwork or laboratory research.
- Communicate geological findings by writing research papers, participating in conferences, or teaching geological science at universities.
- Advise construction firms or government agencies on dam or road construction, foundation design, land use, or resource management.
- Measure characteristics of the Earth, such as gravity or magnetic fields, using equipment such as seismographs, gravimeters, torsion balances, or magnetometers.
- Locate and review research articles or environmental, historical, or technical reports.
- Conduct geological or geophysical studies to provide information for use in regional development, site selection, or development of public works projects.
- Review environmental, historical, or technical reports and publications for accuracy.
- Assess ground or surface water movement to provide advice on issues, such as waste management, route and site selection, or the restoration of contaminated sites.
- Inspect construction projects to analyze engineering problems, using test equipment or drilling machinery.
- Provide advice on the safe siting of new nuclear reactor projects or methods of nuclear waste management.
- Design geological mine maps, monitor mine structural integrity, or advise and monitor mining crews.
- Review work plans to determine the effectiveness of activities for mitigating soil or groundwater contamination.
- Study historical climate change indicators found in locations, such as ice sheets or rock formations to develop climate change models.
- Develop strategies for more environmentally friendly resource extraction and reclamation.
- Research ways to reduce the ecological footprint of increasingly prevalent megacities.
- Collaborate with medical or health researchers to address health problems related to geological materials or processes.
- Determine ways to mitigate the negative consequences of mineral dust dispersion.
- Identify possible sites for carbon sequestration projects.
- Develop ways to capture or use gases burned off as waste during oil production processes.
- Research geomechanical or geochemical processes to be used in carbon sequestration projects.
- Develop applied software for the analysis and interpretation of geological data.
- Determine methods to incorporate geomethane or methane hydrates into global energy production or evaluate the potential environmental impacts of such incorporation.
- Identify risks for natural disasters, such as mudslides, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions.
- Analyze and interpret geological data, using computer software.
- Analyze and interpret geological, geochemical, or geophysical information from sources, such as survey data, well logs, bore holes, or aerial photos.
- Locate and estimate probable natural gas, oil, or mineral ore deposits or underground water resources, using aerial photographs, charts, or research or survey results.
- Test industrial diamonds or abrasives, soil, or rocks to determine their geological characteristics, using optical, x-ray, heat, acid, or precision instruments.
- Identify deposits of construction materials suitable for use as concrete aggregates, road fill, or other applications.
- Identify new sources of platinum group elements for industrial applications, such as automotive fuel cells or pollution abatement systems.
- Locate potential sources of geothermal energy.
- Perform statistical analysis of environmental data.
- Weigh, analyze, or measure collected sample particles, such as lead, coal dust, or rock, to determine concentration of pollutants.
- Collect samples of gases, soils, water, industrial wastewater, or asbestos products to conduct tests on pollutant levels or identify sources of pollution.
- Investigate hazardous conditions or spills or outbreaks of disease or food poisoning, collecting samples for analysis.
- 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.
- Inspect workplaces to ensure the absence of health and safety hazards, such as high noise levels, radiation, or potential lighting hazards.
- 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.
- Calculate amount of pollutant in samples or compute air pollution or gas flow in industrial processes, using chemical and mathematical formulas.
- Develop testing procedures.
- 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.
- Initiate procedures to close down or fine establishments violating environmental or health regulations.
- Inspect sanitary conditions at public facilities.
- 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.
- Perform statistical analysis of environmental data.
- Weigh, analyze, or measure collected sample particles, such as lead, coal dust, or rock, to determine concentration of pollutants.
- Study public water supply issues, including flood and drought risks, water quality, wastewater, and impacts on wetland habitats.
- Compile and evaluate hydrologic information to prepare navigational charts and maps and to predict atmospheric conditions.
- 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.
- 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.
- Collect and analyze water samples as part of field investigations or to validate data from automatic monitors.
- 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.
- 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.
- Study public water supply issues, including flood and drought risks, water quality, wastewater, and impacts on wetland habitats.
- Compile and evaluate hydrologic information to prepare navigational charts and maps and to predict atmospheric conditions.
- 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.
- Collect water and soil samples to test for physical, chemical, or biological properties, such as pH, oxygen level, temperature, and pollution.
- 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.
- Analyze ecological data about the impact of pollution, erosion, floods, and other environmental problems on bodies of water.
- Analyze samples, such as air or water samples, for contaminants or other elements.
- 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.
- Provide initial response to abnormal events or to alarms from radiation monitoring equipment.
- 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.
- Collect samples of air, water, gases, or solids to determine radioactivity levels of contamination.
- 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.
- Place radioactive waste, such as sweepings or broken sample bottles, into containers for shipping or disposal.
- 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.
- Document results from radiation and contamination surveys.
- Inspect, test, and maintain respiratory protection equipment.
- Write radiological work permits.
- Analyze samples, such as air or water samples, for contaminants or other elements.
- 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.
- Formulate predictions by interpreting environmental data, such as meteorological, atmospheric, oceanic, paleoclimate, climate, or related information.
- Develop or use mathematical or computer models for weather forecasting.
- 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.
- Conduct meteorological research into the processes or determinants of atmospheric phenomena, weather, or climate.
- 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.
- Prepare forecasts or briefings to meet the needs of industry, business, government, or other groups.
- Gather data from sources such as surface or upper air stations, satellites, weather bureaus, or radar for use in meteorological reports or forecasts.
- Develop computer programs to collect meteorological data or to present meteorological information.
- Prepare weather reports or maps for analysis, distribution, or use in weather broadcasts, using computer graphics.
- Develop and deliver training on weather topics.
- Prepare scientific atmospheric or climate reports, articles, or texts.
- Analyze climate data sets, using techniques such as geophysical fluid dynamics, data assimilation, or numerical modeling.
- Analyze historical climate information, such as precipitation or temperature records, to help predict future weather or climate trends.
- Consult with other offices, agencies, professionals, or researchers regarding the use and interpretation of climatological information for weather predictions and warnings.
- Speak to the public to discuss weather topics or answer questions.
- Apply meteorological knowledge to issues such as global warming, pollution control, or ozone depletion.
- Perform managerial duties, such as creating work schedules, creating or implementing staff training, matching staff expertise to situations, or analyzing performance of offices.
- 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.
- Collect air samples from planes or ships over land or sea to study atmospheric composition.
- Teach college-level courses on topics such as atmospheric and space science, meteorology, or global climate change.
- Design or develop new equipment or methods for meteorological data collection, remote sensing, or related applications.
- Research the impact of industrial projects or pollution on climate, air quality, or weather phenomena.
- Conduct wind assessment, integration, or validation studies.
- Conduct numerical simulations of climate conditions to understand and predict global or regional weather patterns.
- Estimate or predict the effects of global warming over time for specific geographic regions.
- Create visualizations to illustrate historical or future changes in the Earth's climate, using paleoclimate or climate geographic information systems (GIS) databases.
- Formulate predictions by interpreting environmental data, such as meteorological, atmospheric, oceanic, paleoclimate, climate, or related information.
- Conduct experiments to investigate the underlying mechanisms of plant growth and response to the environment.
- 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.
- 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.
- Conduct experiments investigating how soil forms, changes, or interacts with land-based ecosystems or living organisms.
- 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.
- 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.
- Study insect distribution or habitat and recommend methods to prevent importation or spread of injurious species.
- 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 to investigate the underlying mechanisms of plant growth and response to the environment.
- Compile or interpret biodata to determine extent or type of wetlands or to aid in program formulation.
- Apply principles of specialized fields of science, such as agronomy, soil science, forestry, or agriculture, to achieve conservation objectives.
- Plan soil management or conservation practices, such as crop rotation, reforestation, permanent vegetation, contour plowing, or terracing, to maintain soil or conserve water.
- Monitor projects during or after construction to ensure projects conform to design specifications.
- Advise land users, such as farmers or ranchers, on plans, problems, or alternative conservation solutions.
- Implement soil or water management techniques, such as nutrient management, erosion control, buffers, or filter strips, in accordance with conservation plans.
- Compute design specifications for implementation of conservation practices, using survey or field information, technical guides or engineering manuals.
- Gather information from geographic information systems (GIS) databases or applications to formulate land use recommendations.
- Participate on work teams to plan, develop, or implement programs or policies for improving environmental habitats, wetlands, or groundwater or soil resources.
- Compute cost estimates of different conservation practices, based on needs of land users, maintenance requirements, or life expectancy of practices.
- Develop or maintain working relationships with local government staff or board members.
- Revisit land users to view implemented land use practices or plans.
- Visit areas affected by erosion problems to identify causes or determine solutions.
- Provide information, knowledge, expertise, or training to government agencies at all levels to solve water or soil management problems or to assure coordination of resource protection activities.
- Enter local soil, water, or other environmental data into adaptive or Web-based decision tools to identify appropriate analyses or techniques.
- Analyze results of investigations to determine measures needed to maintain or restore proper soil management.
- Develop, conduct, or participate in surveys, studies, or investigations of various land uses to inform corrective action plans.
- Coordinate or implement technical, financial, or administrative assistance programs for local government units to ensure efficient program implementation or timely responses to requests for assistance.
- Respond to complaints or questions on wetland jurisdiction, providing information or clarification.
- Review or approve amendments to comprehensive local water plans or conservation district plans.
- Review proposed wetland restoration easements or provide technical recommendations.
- Develop soil maps.
- Manage field offices or involve staff in cooperative ventures.
- Initiate, schedule, or conduct annual audits or compliance checks of program implementation by local government.
- Identify or recommend integrated weed and pest management (IPM) strategies, such as resistant plants, cultural or behavioral controls, soil amendments, insects, natural enemies, barriers, or pesticides.
- Review annual reports of counties, conservation districts, or watershed management organizations, certifying compliance with mandated reporting requirements.
- Review grant applications or make funding recommendations.
- Develop or conduct environmental studies, such as plant material field trials or wildlife habitat impact studies.
- Conduct fact-finding or mediation sessions among government units, landowners, or other agencies to resolve disputes.
- Develop water conservation or harvest plans, using weather information systems, irrigation information management systems, or other sources of daily evapotranspiration (ET) data.
- Compile or interpret biodata to determine extent or type of wetlands or to aid in program formulation.
- Perform environmentally extended input-output (EE I-O) analyses.
- 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.
- Examine local, regional, or global use and flow of materials or energy in industrial production processes.
- 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.
- Review industrial practices, such as the methods and materials used in construction or production, to identify potential liabilities and environmental hazards.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Conduct life cycle assessments of products.
- Perform environmentally extended input-output (EE I-O) analyses.
