# 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.