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

Our environmental testing laboratory offers multiple services such as asbestos, chemistry and lead ... Adherence to lab safety protocols * Adherence to EPA standards for asbestos identification * Other ...

Engineering Technician I

Sterling, VA · On-site

$40.30K - $45.50K/yr

May occasionally perform lab testing in our offices If you are looking to join a dynamic team ... Certifications in Concrete and Soil preferred * Must possess a valid driver's license, a clean ...

May occasionally perform lab testing in our offices If you are looking to join a dynamic team ... Certifications in Concrete and Soil preferred * High school diploma or equivalent * Construction ...

Engineering Technician I

Sterling, VA · On-site

$40.30K - $45.50K/yr

May occasionally perform lab testing in our offices If you are looking to join a dynamic team ... Certifications in Concrete and Soil preferred * Must possess a valid driver's license, a clean ...

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Entry Level Soil Testing Lab information

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.

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.

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:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Soil Testing Lab jobs in Virginia? For Entry Level Soil Testing Lab jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Soil Testing Lab jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Soil Testing Lab job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Soil Testing Lab job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

TERRACON

Woodbridge, VA

$22.75 - $31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Terracon rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 57 rated business consultants


Job description


Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include; auger drilling, mud rotary drilling, air rotary drilling, and diamond bit coring techniques. In-situ testing techniques may include cone penetration testing (CPT), pressure meter testing, and rock dilatometer testing. Work may also include the installation of instrumentation such as piezometers, monitor wells and inclinometers. Work as part of a multiple person team on projects. ETMs will perform daily tasks including: survey and locate drilling points; conduct site reconnaissance; load/unload tooling, materials and samples; classify soil and rock samples; perform routine maintenance and basic repairs on drilling equipment, prepare internal (daily field forms) and external (DOT Logs) paperwork.
Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.

Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Limited or no experience required
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history.
  • Ability to obtain a DOT Medical Card within first 30 days of employment.

Preferred Certification and Skills:

  • Experience in diesel mechanics, welding, fabrication, heavy equipment operation, and construction.
  • Valid Class A or B commercial driver's license.
  • This is an entry level position. No experience is required.
  • The employee will be expected perform following tasks:
    • Load tooling and materials.
    • Assist in drilling operations and instrumentation and monitoring well installation.
    • Collect soil and rock samples and log field data.
    • Perform routine repairs and maintenance.
    • Perform basic surveying and site reconnaissance.
    • Drive a medium-duty truck and trailer.
    • Learn to inspect and how to maintain equipment.
    • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
    • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

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