Research Scientist Soil Science

The F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company (BTE) is a premier commercial/residential tree care company that employs over 500 arborist representatives and 3,500 total employees in more than 130 offices across the United States, Canada, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.

The Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories (BTRL) are the research, diagnostic, and technical training heart of the BTE. Our mission is to advance tree research and diagnose plant problems to improve plant health care for our clients. The BTRL is composed of laboratories in Charlotte, North Carolina;
Cornelius, Oregon; and Reading, United Kingdom. The Charlotte laboratory serves as the central research and diagnostic center. It is housed within our 360-acre, Arb Net Level IV accredited arboretum and research grounds containing over 32,000 accessioned trees and shrubs, including major collections of magnolia, oak, crape myrtle, crabapple, holly, and many other key woody plant groups and rare plants for conservation purposes.

• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• 401k retirement plan
• Paid time off and holidays

To find out more about what life is like at Bartlett, check us out on Instagram @Lifeat Bartlett.

The Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories are seeking a curious and passionate individual to work with our team of Research Scientists on advancing the field of arboriculture. The Soil Scientist position is one of many professional Research Scientist roles at BTRL focused on developing and leading applied research programs in landscape plant health care, plant pest management, tree physiology, and soil science.

This position combines scientific investigation, technical expertise, and educational outreach to support BTE’s arborist representatives, clients, and internal teams. The successful candidate will enjoy strong support for research initiatives and the ability to respond rapidly to emerging needs.

While based in Charlotte, NC, this position often requires travel to study and conduct research on high-priority issues and to serve regional BTE staff. This will involve regular travel throughout North America.

The successful candidate will collaborate with research staff, industry partners, and BTE offices to develop and evaluate new management tools, refine plant health care techniques, and share findings through publications, presentations, and training programs. This position is ideal for someone with a passion for soil science research, the willingness to learn new areas of plant Page 2 of 3 science, strong communication skills, and the ability to translate scientific knowledge into practical solutions for real-world tree and landscape challenges.

This is a highly collaborative and dynamic position that blends applied research, technical support, training, and scientific communication. Research Scientists at BTRL are encouraged to develop programs around their expertise, interests, and emerging opportunities while supporting the evolving needs of BTE. As a result, the balance of these responsibilities may vary over time.

Research: Develop applied research programs focused on soil science with emphasis on practical, science-based approaches to improving soil function, root-zone conditions, plant performance, and resilience to environmental stressors in urban and managed landscapes. Research topics may include, but not limited to, soil physical, chemical, and biological properties; soil compaction and restricted rooting environments; remedies for constructed and disturbed soils; urban soil restoration using mulches and biochar and other factors influencing plant health and resilience, with flexibility to determine priorities based on emerging needs and opportunities.

When appropriate,…