Soil scientist
Level 7 · Degree (Master’s)Health and science 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This Level 7 apprenticeship trains soil scientists to analyse, interpret, and manage soil data to support agriculture, environmental management, and land-use decisions. Apprentices carry out field surveys, laboratory analysis, and technical reporting for clients in farming, government, or environmental consultancy. It can lead to roles as a Senior Soil Scientist, Land Quality Consultant, or research leadership positions.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Soil formation, classification, and physical-chemical properties
Field survey techniques including soil description and sampling
Laboratory methods for soil analysis and interpretation
Soil health indicators and links to sustainable land management
Legislation and policy relating to soil and land quality
GIS and spatial data tools for mapping soil information
Technical report writing and presenting findings to clients
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Conduct field surveys to describe and sample soils
Analyse soil samples in a laboratory for key indicators
Interpret soil data and produce technical reports
Advise farmers and land managers on soil health improvements
Use GIS software to map and present soil information
Assess land contamination risks and remediation options
Contribute to research projects and policy evidence bases
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 7 (Degree (Master’s)) - roughly Master’s-degree level. Usually needs a relevant degree or Level 6 qualification, or significant experience.
What’s next: Leads into senior and chartered professional roles.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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