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Entry Level Soil Testing Lab Jobs in Portland, OR

GRI

Geotechnical Engineer, Staff

Portland, OR · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Collect soil, rock, and groundwater samples & data; evaluate & interpret data. * Perform lab testing including Atterbergs, Consols, Direct Shear, Proctor, Triaxial, etc. * Perform engineering ...

GRI

Geotechnical Engineer, Staff

Portland, OR · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Collect soil, rock, and groundwater samples & data; evaluate & interpret data. * Perform lab testing including Atterbergs, Consols, Direct Shear, Proctor, Triaxial, etc. * Perform engineering ...

Arcadis

Geologist/Hydrogeologist

Portland, OR · Hybrid

Arcadis is seeking an entry-level Geologist/Hydrogeologist to join our team in Portland, Oregon ... Conduct field work including drilling oversight for soil sampling, groundwater well installation ...

Arcadis

Geologist/Hydrogeologist

Portland, OR · On-site

Arcadis is seeking an entry-level Geologist/Hydrogeologist to join our team in Portland, Oregon ... Conduct field work including drilling oversight for soil sampling, groundwater well installation ...

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All JobsEntry Level Soil Testing Lab JobsEntry Level Soil Testing Lab Jobs in Portland, OR

Entry Level Soil Testing Lab information

See Portland, OR salary details

$14

$25

$53

How much do entry level soil testing lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level soil testing lab in Portland, OR is $25.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $27.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 the most commonly searched types of Soil Testing Lab jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Soil Testing Lab jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Soil Testing Lab jobs in Portland, OR? For Entry Level Soil Testing Lab jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Soil Testing Lab jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Soil Testing Lab jobs in Portland, OR are:
Entry Level Soil Testing Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Soil Testing Lab job openings in Portland, OR as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,078 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Geotechnical Engineer, Staff

GRI

Portland, OR • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

GRI is seeking a Staff Geotechnical Engineer to join our growing team. As a Staff Engineer at GRI, you will gain experience working on a variety of interesting assignments under the mentorship of project/senior engineers.
GRI is an employee-owned, full-service geotechnical, pavement, geological, and environmental engineering consulting firm based in the Portland, Oregon area. We are an ambitious, highly trained, diversified staff of engineers and geologists. GRI promotes a collaborative work culture, supports training and career development, and encourages work-life integration, which results in a highly desirable work environment.
General responsibilities include:
  • Perform and manage field explorations.
  • Manage and coordinate work with drilling subcontractors.
  • Collect soil, rock, and groundwater samples & data; evaluate & interpret data.
  • Perform lab testing including Atterbergs, Consols, Direct Shear, Proctor, Triaxial, etc.
  • Perform engineering analyses.
  • Perform settlement analyses.
  • Conduct pile design.
  • Perform slope stability analysis & design.
  • Conduct pavement condition index surveys for roadways & airfields.
  • Perform back-calculation analysis & interpret FWD data.
  • Perform traffic loading analysis.
  • Write simple reports; draft more complex reports for senior engineer review such as site investigations, site assessments, and remediation activities.
  • Observe construction activities on site to ensure they meet design criteria.
  • Prepare concise and timely site visit reports.
  • Process GPR data.
  • Communicate on project sites with contractors / subcontractors.
  • Identify and understand unsuitable conditions in the field, apply knowledge to real-world situations on project sites to make recommendations.
  • Understand proper piles, anchor testing, fill placement, drilled shafts, and apply knowledge to real-world conditions on project sites to identify inappropriate or unsuitable conditions/ application, & make recommendations in real-time.
  • Generate geologic maps & cross-sections with assistance of Drafting staff and / or other Geologic or Engineering Staff.
  • Attend internal and external project meetings.
  • Actively engage in mentorship activities with senior GRI staff.
  • Attend professional society meetings.

Required Skills / Abilities:
  • Strong understanding of geotechnical engineering design and investigation, and the terms and methodology used in geotechnical engineering.
  • Ability to perform calculations and use tools to compute data Skilled in use and application of geotechnical numerical modeling software.
  • Experience with soil structure interaction.
  • Familiarity with bridge and waterfront design and construction.
  • Interpret and communicate site plans and specifications.
  • Communicate clearly with project managers; ability to manage time and meet deadlines.
  • Engage in client networking to level appropriate; participate in firm outreach activities.
  • Ability to work with a variety of other personnel in the office and in the field.

Position Requirements:
  • M.S. Civil Engineering (Geotechnical option).
  • EIT Preferred.
  • Valid driver's license.

Physical Requirements:
  • Use computers, tablets, and mobile devices.
  • Perform physical tasks on project sites that may include walking, climbing, crawling, or standing for long periods of time.
  • Lift up to 65 pounds at times.
  • Travel to project sites in vehicles.

Annual Salary: $70,000 - $90,000
GRI offers a comprehensive compensation package that includes competitive salary, generous PTO accrual, 9 paid holidays, 401K with immediate company contribution, 100% employer paid Medical / Dental / Vision / Life / Disability insurance, eligibility for annual bonuses, and continuing education and training reimbursement programs.
GRI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

About GRI

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Tigard, OR, US

Year founded

1984

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