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Entry Level Soil Science Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Are you looking for an opportunity to work with senior engineers and scientists on a wide variety ... Oversight of soil excavation, demolitions and environmental treatment system installations under ...

Entry Level Soil Science information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$27.3K

$119.3K

$215.1K

How much do entry level soil science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level soil science in Seattle, WA is $119,337.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $136,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level soil scientist do?

As an Entry Level Soil Scientist, your workday may involve a mix of fieldwork—such as collecting soil samples, conducting site surveys, and measuring environmental conditions—and office or lab tasks like preparing reports, analyzing samples, and entering data. You’ll often work as part of a team with senior soil scientists, environmental engineers, and project managers. The work can require travel to various project sites, and schedules may vary based on project deadlines or seasonal demands. Collaborating with others and communicating findings clearly are key parts of the job, offering an excellent opportunity to build both technical and teamwork skills early in your career.

What is an entry level soil scientist?

An Entry Level Soil Science job involves studying soil properties, composition, and health to support agricultural, environmental, or construction projects. Responsibilities often include collecting and analyzing soil samples, conducting fieldwork, and assisting with research or land assessments. Entry-level soil scientists may work for government agencies, environmental consulting firms, or agricultural organizations. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of soil chemistry and biology are important for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level soil scientist?

To thrive as an Entry Level Soil Scientist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in soil science, environmental science, or a related field, along with basic knowledge of soil sampling and analysis techniques. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, GPS systems, soil testing kits, and data analysis software is often required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for collecting accurate soil data, interpreting findings, and collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Soil Science jobs in Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Soil Science jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Soil Science jobs in Seattle, WA? For Entry Level Soil Science jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Soil Science jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Soil Science jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Soil Science job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $119,337 per year, or $57.4 per hour.

Geotechnical Engineer (Entry-Level)

Shannon & Wilson Inc

Seattle, WA

$95K - $115K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description

Shannon & Wilson is an employee-owned consulting firm headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Committed to technical excellence and high-quality service, we provide integrated geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, environmental and natural resource services for clients. Since 1954, we have delivered comprehensive engineering and environmental solutions for the most challenging infrastructure planning, design, permitting and construction conditions. 


We are dedicated to improving our communities, preserving the environment and utilizing the most innovative science practices in all our work. 


Responsibilities:

  • Perform geotechnical engineering and geological analyses and calculations.
  • Prepare and write engineering and other reports.
  • Perform field explorations, collection of samples, geologic reconnaissance, and mapping.
  • Perform with construction observation on job sites and prepare summary logs and other documentation.
  • Perform geotechnical lab testing and communicate results.
  • Interact and communicate with clients, vendors, and staff at all levels.
  • Support marketing activities, including preparation of cost proposals.
  • Follow Shannon & Wilson's Quality Assurance policy.
  • Follow and promote Shannon and Wilson's Health and Safety and Loss Prevention policies.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by your supervisor.

Requirements

  • BS in Civil Engineering and MS or PhD Degree in Geotechnical Engineering.
  • 0 - 6 years of experience in Geotechnical Engineering.
  • Have obtained or in process of receiving a Engineer-in-Training Certificate
  • On track to obtain Professional Engineering (PE) License.
  • Work experience (and/or coursework) in one or more of the following areas: soil mechanics; rock mechanics; rock and soil slope stability; shallow and deep foundations; tunneling; microtunneling; seismic design; earthquake engineering; and retaining structures.
  • Some knowledge or experience of field/construction observation in one or more of the following areas: logging geotechnical explorations, observation of pile driving operations, observations of earthwork activities, installation and recording of geotechnical instrumentation, field reconnaissance, and/or underground work.
  • Excellent writing, organizational, and communication skills.  
  • Personable, flexible, and professional demeanor.  
  • The ability to work independently with the appropriate level of OR minimal supervision.  
  • The willingness and ability to travel to support the needs of other Shannon & Wilson offices.   
  • A valid driver license and insurable driving record.  
  • Basic computer skills: MS Word, Excel (required); MS Access (desirable).  
  • Critical thinking and analysis.  
  • Frequent sitting, standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying 30+ pounds.  
  • Working in all weather conditions, on uneven terrain.  
  • The ability to travel (drive or fly) to field sites per project needs and job sites locally and out of state.   


Level Placement

Typically, depending on an applicant's education, experience, other qualifications they possess, if they are a fit for the company and local office culture, and the current business needs, an Entry-Level Geotechnical Engineer typically would be placed at a Shannon & Wilson Professional I, II, III, or IV level.


Compensation:

Professional I: $35.00 - $38.50 per hour

Professional II: $83,500 - $90,000 annually

Professional III: $85,000 - $100,000 annually

Professional IV: $95,000 - $115,000 annually


Shannon & Wilson is committed to providing a comprehensive total rewards package that includes the following benefits:  

  • Employee stock ownership  
  • Medical, prescription, vision, dental, long-term care and life insurance plans are offered to employees (and their families).  
  • Pre-tax health and daycare FSA  
  • Profit sharing and 401(k) plans with annual safe-harbor contributions 10 - 20 paid vacation days per year for full-time employees (prorated for part-time employment) based on year's of experience 
  • Since sick leave accrues based on hours worked might be best to list as an hourly accrual, or plan to update for PT postings. 
  • 9 paid holidays per year + 1 personal holiday  
  • Paid volunteer day  
  • Paid time off for bereavement and jury duty  
  • Two weeks of paid parental leave  
  • Lunch & Live wellness webinars and an Employee Assistance Program 
  • Mentorship Program 
  • Tuition Reimbursement 
  • Free parking  

Shannon & Wilson is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Shannon & Wilson participates in the E-Verify program.

Please note that non-solicited resumes from external recruitment agencies will not be considered as introductions to our business, unless a preapproved agreement is in place and the external recruitment agency has been engaged to work on this specific vacancy.