soil-scientist/references/tasks.md

Tasks & work activities — soil scientist

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 19-2043.00 (Hydrologists).

Task statements

• [Core] Develop computer models for hydrologic predictions.
• [Core] Prepare written and oral reports describing research results, using illustrations, maps, appendices, and other information.
• [Core] Study and document quantities, distribution, disposition, and development of underground and surface waters.
• [Core] Coordinate and supervise the work of professional and technical staff, including research assistants, technologists, and technicians.
• [Core] Prepare hydrogeologic evaluations of known or suspected hazardous waste sites and land treatment and feedlot facilities.
• [Core] Design and conduct scientific hydrogeological investigations to ensure that accurate and appropriate information is available for use in water resource management decisions.
• [Core] Study public water supply issues, including flood and drought risks, water quality, wastewater, and impacts on wetland habitats.
• [Core] Collect and analyze water samples as part of field investigations or to validate data from automatic monitors.
• [Core] Apply research findings to help minimize the environmental impacts of pollution, waterborne diseases, erosion, and sedimentation.
• [Core] Measure and graph phenomena such as lake levels, stream flows, and changes in water volumes.
• [Core] Investigate complaints or conflicts related to the alteration of public waters, gathering information, recommending alternatives, informing participants of progress, and preparing draft orders.
• [Core] Answer questions and provide technical assistance and information to contractors or the public regarding issues such as well drilling, code requirements, hydrology, and geology.
• [Core] Develop or modify methods for conducting hydrologic studies.
• [Core] Install, maintain, and calibrate instruments such as those that monitor water levels, rainfall, and sediments.
• [Core] 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.
• [Core] Conduct short- and long-term climate assessments and study storm occurrences.
• [Core] Study and analyze the physical aspects of the earth in terms of hydrological components, including atmosphere, hydrosphere, and interior structure.
• [Core] Conduct research and communicate information to promote the conservation and preservation of water resources.
• [Core] Review applications for site plans and permits and recommend approval, denial, modification, or further investigative action.
• [Core] Evaluate research data in terms of its impact on issues such as soil and water conservation, flood control planning, and water supply forecasting.
• [Core] Monitor the work of well contractors, exploratory borers, and engineers and enforce rules regarding their activities.
• [Core] Administer programs designed to ensure the proper sealing of abandoned wells.
• [Core] Investigate properties, origins, and activities of glaciers, ice, snow, and permafrost.
• [Supplemental] Design civil works associated with hydrographic activities and supervise their construction, installation, and maintenance.
• [Supplemental] Compile and evaluate hydrologic information to prepare navigational charts and maps and to predict atmospheric conditions.

Detailed work activities

• Analyze environmental data.
• Analyze geological or geographical data.
• Apply knowledge or research findings to address environmental problems.
• Assess compliance with environmental laws.
• Calibrate scientific or technical equipment.
• Collect data about project sites.
• Collect environmental data or samples.
• Communicate results of environmental research.
• Compile geographic or related data.
• Conduct climatological research.
• Coordinate construction or installation activities.
• Design water conservation systems.
• Develop environmental research methods.
• Develop mathematical models of environmental conditions.
• Direct natural resources extraction projects.
• Evaluate civic projects or public policies.
• Maintain equipment or systems to ensure proper functioning.
• Maintain laboratory or technical equipment.
• Measure environmental characteristics.
• Order materials, supplies, or equipment.
• Plan environmental research.
• Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.
• Provide technical information or assistance to public.
• Record research or operational data.
• Research hydrologic features or processes.
• Research impacts of environmental conservation initiatives.
• Respond to customer problems or complaints.
• Review environmental permits, plans, or reports.
• Supervise scientific or technical personnel.