Botanical Technician

Biological technologists and technicians provide technical support and services to scientists, engineers and other professionals working in fields such as agriculture, resource management, environmental protection, plant and animal biology, microbiology, cell and molecular biology and health sciences, or may work independently in these fields. They are employed in both laboratory and field settings by governments, manufacturers of food products, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, biotechnology companies, health, research and educational institutions, environmental consulting companies, and utilities.

Typical Duties:

• Applies knowledge from scientific fields such as agronomy, soil science, or forestry to define and achieve environmental objectives;
• Develops water conservation plans using weather information systems and irrigation information management systems;
• Reviews wetlands restoration proposals;
• Develops and conducts land use studies;
• Analyzes results of investigations to determine the steps to be taken to maintain correct soil or erosion management;
• Implements soil or water management techniques based on results of studies of local conditions;
• Audits compliance to environmental regulation by both local governments and the private sector;
• Advises land owners such as farmers and ranchers on conservation methodologies;
• Employs geographic information systems (GIS) in the assessment of water qualities, groundwater qualities, and environmental contamination;
• Plans soil management or conservation programs employing methods such as crop rotation, reforestation, plowing formats;
• Identifies causes and defines remedial measures for areas with erosion problems;
• Participates in planning, and implementing programs for improving habitats or wetlands;
• Provides expertise to government agencies responsible for water or soil management;

Educational Requirements:

Two or the-year college program focused on agriculture, biology, microbiology, or resource management.