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Entry Level Soil Testing Lab Jobs in Richmond, VA

ECS Ltd

Soils Laboratory Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$25/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

$25/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 ...

City of Richmond

Chemist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$53K - $68K/yr

We highly encourage entry level candidates to apply. Duties include but are not limited to Performs ... Maintains detailed logs and records of testing data. Generates reports for managers, contractors ...

SanAir

Microbiology Laboratory Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$13 - $16/hr

... wellness testing laboratory holding company. We are committed to providing a high standard of ... SanAir's Syracuse location provides laboratory analysis for Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), Soil Vapor ...

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Entry Level Soil Testing Lab information

See Richmond, VA salary details

$13

$23

$49

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

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level soil testing lab in Richmond, VA is $23.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.63 and $25.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level soil testing lab?

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 does an entry level soil testing lab do?

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level soil testing lab?

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 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 popular job titles related to Entry Level Soil Testing Lab jobs in Richmond, VA?

For Entry Level Soil Testing Lab jobs in Richmond, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Soil Testing Lab jobs in Richmond, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Soil Testing Lab jobs in Richmond, VA are:

What cities near Richmond, VA are hiring for Entry Level Soil Testing Lab jobs?

Cities near Richmond, VA with the most Entry Level Soil Testing Lab job openings:

Entry Level Soil Testing Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Soil Testing Lab job openings in Richmond, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,530 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Soils Laboratory Technician

Richmond, VA • On-site

ECS Mid-Atlantic, LLC
See more jobs at ECS Mid-Atlantic, LLCexternal

$25/hr

Other

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description


Responsibilities

No experience necessary, paid training is provided, and we pay your certification fees!

ECS Limited is offering a unique opportunity for a talented Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Soils Laboratory Technician to join our Richmond team. We offer opportunities for growth in this role with additional incentives as you earn your certifications. No prior experience is needed, as you'll work under the guidance of experienced professionals to learn to safely perform a variety of tasks in our concrete and soils laboratories.

Responsibilities

  • Performs basic laboratory tests on soil and construction material samples under supervision
  • Assists with sample preparation and testing procedures
  • Compiles test results, data input, data processing, and other administrative duties
  • Performs soils laboratory testing including but not limited to, under supervision:
    • Atterberg limits
    • Gradation analyses
    • Swell testing
    • Moisture content testing
    • Visual classifications (begin to learn)
    • Unconfined compressive strength testing of soil and rock
    • Standard and modified proctor testing
  • Assists in maintaining a clean and organized laboratory environment
  • Supports calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment
  • Maintains calibration records and documentation in accordance with QA/QC and accreditation requirements
  • Notifies supervisors of damaged or missing equipment
  • Assists with additional laboratory functions and occasional fieldwork as needed

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • 0 years of related experience
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Obtain lab certifications applicable to the lab work performed as per the ECS Technician Certification Policy
    • If work is performed in both soils and concrete labs, certifications are required for both laboratories
  • If driving for or on behalf of any ECS subsidiary, a valid driver's license is required
  • Strong communication and basic math skills
  • Attention to detail and accuracy in data recording
  • Dependable, self-motivated, and responsible work ethic
  • Ability to follow directions and work under close supervision
  • Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Word and Excel
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds multiple times per day

Military Qualifications:

  • The following US Military ranks will qualify for this position IF they also meet the education and licenses requirements from the above section titled "Required Qualifications":
    • E-4

The expected pay for this role and location is $25/hour. The final agreed-upon compensation will be determined based on specific location and other individual qualifications.


About Us

ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and facilities consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,000 employees in 100+ offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record's Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record's Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) and #50 in Zweig Group's Hot Firm List (May 2025). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, clickhere.

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