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Entry Level Soil Testing Lab Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Tech

Soil Analyst

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Agriculture / Life Science Performs daily analytical and clerical tasks of the Soil Testing ... Follow University funds handling protocol and lab procedures to receive payments for lab work ...

Triad Engineering

Laboratory Technician I

Winchester, VA

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

WACEL and/or DOT/DOH lab certifications * Experience performing testing in accordance with current ... Soil and aggregate * Mortar and grout * Brick and block * Sprayed-on fireproofing * Asphalt

Triad Engineering

Laboratory Technician I

Winchester, VA · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

WACEL and/or DOT/DOH lab certifications * Experience performing testing in accordance with current ... Soil and aggregate * Mortar and grout * Brick and block * Sprayed-on fireproofing * Asphalt

Triad Engineering

Laboratory Technician I

Winchester, VA · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

WACEL and/or DOT/DOH lab certifications * Experience performing testing in accordance with current ... Soil and aggregate * Mortar and grout * Brick and block * Sprayed-on fireproofing * Asphalt

ECS Ltd

Soils Laboratory Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Unconfined compressive strength testing of soil and rock * Standard and modified proctor testing ... Obtain lab certifications applicable to the lab work performed as per the ECS Technician ...

ECS Ltd

Soils Laboratory Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Unconfined compressive strength testing of soil and rock * Standard and modified proctor testing ... Obtain lab certifications applicable to the lab work performed as per the ECS Technician ...

ECS Ltd

Laboratory Technician

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Unconfined compressive strength testing of soil and rock * Standard and modified proctor testing ... Obtain lab certifications applicable to the lab work performed as per the ECS Technician ...

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Entry Level Soil Testing Lab information

How much money does a soil scientist make?

Entry-level soil testing lab technicians or soil scientists typically earn between $35,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on location, education, and experience. Advanced roles with certifications or specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $60,000 per year.

What are entry level soil testing lab jobs?

Entry level soil testing lab jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the field of soil science and laboratory work. These roles typically involve assisting with the preparation and analysis of soil samples, recording data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. Employees in these positions may also help ensure quality control and follow safety protocols. No advanced experience is usually required, making these jobs ideal for recent graduates or those seeking to start a career in environmental science or agriculture.

What is the difference between Entry Level Soil Testing Lab vs Soil Technician?

AspectEntry Level Soil Testing LabSoil Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer associate degreeHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications optional
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, working with soil samples and testing equipmentField and laboratory, collecting samples and conducting tests
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental labs, construction, agricultureEnvironmental consulting firms, construction sites, research labs

While both roles involve soil analysis, the Entry Level Soil Testing Lab typically focuses on laboratory testing of soil samples, often requiring basic certifications and working primarily indoors. In contrast, a Soil Technician may perform both field sampling and lab testing, with more hands-on fieldwork involved. Both positions are essential in environmental and construction industries, but the Soil Technician role often involves more field responsibilities.

How much does a soil testing technician make?

A soil testing technician at an entry level typically earns between $15 and $20 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $40,000. Compensation can vary based on location, education, and experience, and the role often requires knowledge of laboratory equipment and soil analysis techniques.

How much do soil samplers make?

Entry-level soil testing lab technicians typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on location, experience, and certifications. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, such as proficiency with testing equipment or knowledge of soil analysis methods.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Soil Testing Lab Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Soil Testing Lab Technician, you need a basic understanding of laboratory procedures, soil science, and safety protocols, usually supported by a high school diploma or associate degree in a related field. Familiarity with lab equipment, soil sampling techniques, and data entry software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to follow precise instructions help set you apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate test results, maintain lab safety, and support the quality and reliability of environmental or agricultural analyses.

What are some typical responsibilities and challenges for someone starting out in an entry-level soil testing lab position?

In an entry-level soil testing lab position, you'll typically be responsible for preparing soil samples, conducting standardized tests (such as pH, nutrient, and texture analysis), recording results, and maintaining lab equipment. One common challenge is learning to follow strict protocols and ensuring accuracy in sample handling and data recording, as small errors can impact test results. You'll often work as part of a team under the supervision of senior technicians or lab managers, and collaboration is essential to meet project deadlines. This role provides a great opportunity to build foundational laboratory skills and can lead to more advanced positions in environmental science, agronomy, or lab management over time.

How can I become a soil tester?

To become a soil tester, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, followed by training in soil sampling and testing procedures. Some positions may require knowledge of laboratory equipment and soil analysis techniques, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Soil Testing Lab jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Soil Testing Lab jobs in Virginia are:
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Infographic showing various Entry Level Soil Testing Lab job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Soil Analyst

Soil Analyst

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 25 days ago

Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

195th of 546 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Soil Analyst

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536715
Work type: Staff
Senior management: Agriculture & Life Sciences
Department: School of Plant & Environmental Sci
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Agriculture / Life Science

Job Description

Performs daily analytical and clerical tasks of the Soil Testing Laboratory that annually receives over 50,000 samples. The laboratory's test results are used to help educate farmers, agribusiness personnel and homeowners about the efficient, economical and environmental use of our fertilizer and soil resources. Responsible for sample preparation by unpacking, setting up, drying, grinding and sieving samples. Perform chemical extraction of soil samples for nutrient analysis. Operate ICPAES instrument for elemental analysis on soil sample extracts. Monitor analytical quality of ICP data, upload data files. Assist ICP Spectroscopist with research solution samples as directed by the Lab Manager.Follow University funds handling protocol and lab procedures to receive payments for lab work, write receipts; log and tally checks and cash for daily direct bank deposit, verifying total amount. Independently organize and carry out the invoicing to external clients. Itemize dollar amounts to be billed to companies for soil tests performed on credit, Process corrections using A/R adjustment forms; process Interdepartmental Service Requests. Perform repetitive tasks in a timely manner with accuracy. Department is unable to support work visas.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or equivalent training and experience; Demonstrated knowledge and work experience with general laboratory equipment, computers, reagents, procedures and analytical techniques; Ability to perform rapid, accurate, reproducible work with occasional interruptions while following complex instructions; Experience providing excellent customer service; Data entry experience entering information quickly and accurately; Experience in independently performing basic troubleshooting steps to identify and solve fundamental issues; Ability to repeatedly lift & carry up to 30 lbs over short distances & above head level, climb stairs several times per day, work in environments using appropriate protective gear for high levels of soil dust and noise, strong acids & odors, and adjacent to radio frequency electrical generators.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in the sciences; Experience with soil pH, atomic spectroscopy (especially ICP-AES); Experience with data entry, funds handling and with MS Windows, Word, and Excel

Pay Band

4

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

40,000-55,000

Hours per week

40

Review Date

07/03/2026

Additional Information

Must be able to repeatedly lift & carry up to 30 lbs. over short distances & above head level, and to climb a flight of stairs several times per day, and to work in environments of high soil dust, high noise, with strong acids & odors, and adjacent to radio frequency electrical generators. Work schedule M-F, 7:30-4:00 with 1/2 hour for lunch

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Courtney McCombs at cdundas@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: June 15, 2026
Applications close:

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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

Social media

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