Soil & Plant Scientist

Soil and Plant Scientists are critical to the future of Hawaiʻi’s water resilience. By studying how soil, vegetation, and land use affect water quality, infiltration, and runoff, they help design systems that protect watersheds, reduce erosion, recharge aquifers, and minimize nonpoint source pollution. Their work bridges agriculture, conservation, and environmental engineering often informing water smart farming, native ecosystem restoration, and climate-adaptive land management strategies.

In Hawaiʻi, where rainfall patterns are shifting and watershed health is deeply tied to cultural and ecological well-being, these scientists are essential partners in managing both water quantity and quality across urban, agricultural, and natural landscapes.

Education & Training

This position typically requires:

  • A Bachelor’s degree in Soil Science, Plant Science, Environmental Science, Agronomy, or a related field

  • Many roles require or prefer a Master’s degree or specialized certifications (e.g., Certified Professional Soil Scientist or Wetland Delineator)

  • Fieldwork experience and GIS/data analysis skills are highly valued

  • Some positions may involve collaboration with cultural practitioners or community groups on ʻāina-based (land-based) water restoration projects

In Hawai’i, you can study at:

  • University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa – College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR)

    • Offers BS and MS degrees in Natural Resources & Environmental Management, Tropical Plant & Soil Sciences

    • Website: https://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu

  • University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo – Environmental Science & Native Hawaiian Studies

  • Kauaʻi, Leeward, and Windward Community Colleges

  • Kamehameha Schools / Mālama Learning Center / NRCS & Conservation Districts / Kupu Hawaiʻi

    • Offer internships, community-based research, and ʻāina restoration projects that combine western and Indigenous science

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of:

  • Soil chemistry, hydrology, erosion control, and nutrient cycling

  • Plant-soil-water relationships and vegetation’s role in watershed health

  • Native and invasive plant species and their impacts on infiltration and runoff

  • Agricultural best practices that reduce water use and pollution

  • Climate adaptation strategies for land and water systems

  • Hawaiʻi’s unique ecosystems, watersheds, and cultural land management approaches

Skill in:

  • Conducting soil and water sampling, testing, and lab analysis

  • Using GIS and remote sensing to analyze land cover and watershed conditions

  • Designing green infrastructure, agroforestry, or buffer zones to protect water quality

  • Collaborating with farmers, engineers, cultural practitioners, and government agencies

  • Writing technical reports and grant proposals for restoration or research projects

Ability to:

  • Assess and improve soil health to support aquifer recharge and drought resilience

  • Translate scientific data into practical land and water management solutions

  • Work in the field across diverse terrain and weather conditions

  • Engage with local communities to co-develop sustainable practices

  • Apply both Western and Indigenous ecological knowledge in water-related projects

Scholarships & Opportunities