Biological Scientists
Description OES Code: 24308
These biotechnology workers work with research staff in designing, developing, executing, and carrying out plant breeding research projects to develop and improve varieties of crops. They work on projects to improve crop characteristics such as size, yield, resistance to disease, weather, and insect pests. The Breeder may use exotic germ plasm and work with various mating systems. They integrate with biotechnology as needed to enhance selection methods and accelerate product development.

Wages by California County
OES Survey
CCOIS Survey

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 10,200
Projected Employment 2008 15,300
Percent Change 1998-2008 50%
Separations 1998-2008 2,700

Employment Trends by California County

Advancement
This occupation is included in a group of biotechnology occupations which are technical in nature, and jobs which can serve as stepping stones to technical positions.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Identifying the different types of companies within the biotechnology industry can be difficult. Some companies are created for the purpose of exploring biotechnology, while others use the process of biotechnology to manufacture pharmaceutical, agricultural, environmental and food products.

The types of biotechnology companies can be divided in several ways. The Biotechnology Industry Organization separates the industry into the following areas: therapeutic, human diagnostics, supplier, chemical-environmental, and agricultural. Other industry organizations have added thecategories of energy production, medical devices, biopharmaceutical, veterinary, and various combinations of these categories. The human therapeutics and diagnostics sectors have, by far, the greatest amount of activity, involving 65 to 70 percent of the biotechnology companies in the United States. About 17 percent of the companies are engaged in producing equipment and supplies for bioscience research and manufacturing.

For a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.


Education and Training
-- BS degree or equivalent.
-- Up to two years of experience in plant breeding, agronomics and/or
-- training in plant breeding or plant science.

Skills & Other Requirements
-- Ability to maintain accurate records.
-- Attention to detail.
-- Good oral, written and computer communication skills.

References
California Occupational Guide #2007

Related Occupations: Biotechnology

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)

© 2002 State of California CalCRN, US Department of Labor
Unless otherwise noted, wage data source: CA EDD Occupational Employment Statistics Employer Survey. Other
wage data may be based on the most current Statewide aggregated CCOIS survey responses.
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