Bioenergy Career Map: Plant Sciences Technician

Agronomist Technician; Botanist Technician; Crop Scientist Trainee; Plant Geneticist Trainee; Plant Pathologist Trainee

Bachelor’s degree in Plant Science, Plant Breeding, Biotechnology, Plant Pathology, Agronomy, Agricultural Engineering, Crop Science, Entomology, Genetics, Soil Science, Biology, or a related field.

0-3 years

• Knowledge of field crop production or management, soil and crop management, plant breeding and development, weed and pest control, plant physiology, and plant pathology
• Familiarity with plant genetics and genetic sequencing tools
• Experience with statistical packages, spatial statistical methods, and commercial geographic information system (GIS) software
• Experience with field data collection, data review, and preparation of technical documents 
• Ability to organize, analyze, interpret, and evaluate scientific data
• Excellent technical writing, interpersonal, and communication skills. 

The United States has the potential to sustainably produce over 1 billion tons of biomass annually for renewable fuels, power, and products. Much of this biomass will come from dedicated energy crops—non-food crops that can be grown on land not suitable for traditional crops, specifically to provide biomass—and other agricultural resources. Improvements in crop yield and productivity, as well as reductions in fertilizer and pesticide requirements will help the industry realize this vast potential. With knowledge of biology, genetics, entomology, and soil science, plant scientists are uniquely qualified to help develop and enhance bioenergy crop systems, while protecting the nation’s natural resources.

Plant scientists conduct research on energy crop breeding, physiology, production, and yield. They also study different crop management techniques in order to discern the best ways to plant, harvest, and cultivate the plants as well as develop methods to control weeds and pests to keep crops disease-free. Their ultimate goal is to work scientifically to produce the finest crops for use in bioenergy production systems, on a consistent basis.

At the entry level, candidates work under the direction of senior technical staff to improve the productivity of bioenergy cropping systems. A Bachelor’s degree in plant science, plant breeding, biotechnology, plant pathology, agronomy, agricultural engineering, crop science, entomology, genetics, soil science, biology, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent experience or training may substitute for the degree. Employers also value relevant experience gained through undergraduate capstone research projects, part-time employment, internships, or volunteer work. A good foundational understanding of the physical and chemical sciences is recommended, as well as solid quantitative skills.