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Phd Soil Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NCSU

Extension Corn Agronomist

Raleigh, NC

PhD in agronomy, crop science, or a closely related discipline. Other Required Qualifications * In-depth knowledge of corn agronomy, including soil science, crop management, and sustainable ...

University of Missouri

Post Doctoral Fellow

Columbia, MO · On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

Candidates need to have a PhD in agronomy, agroecology, ecology, soil science, natural resources, environmental science, agricultural engineering, statistics, data science, or similar discipline.

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Phd Soil Science information

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$31K

$48.2K

$97K

How much do phd soil science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd soil science in the United States is $48,183.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $57,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can you do with a PhD in soil science?

A PhD in soil science prepares individuals for research, teaching, and consulting roles in academia, government agencies, environmental organizations, and the agricultural industry. Graduates often work as soil scientists, environmental consultants, or researchers, utilizing skills in data analysis, field sampling, and laboratory techniques. Advanced knowledge of soil properties and environmental impact assessments is essential for many of these positions.

What is the difference between Phd Soil Science vs Soil Scientist?

AspectPhd Soil ScienceSoil Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree in soil science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's degree in soil science or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, government agenciesFieldwork, laboratories, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, research, government research projectsEnvironmental consulting, agriculture, land management
Common Search & Comparison IntentAdvanced research roles, academic positionsPractical soil analysis, environmental assessment

In summary, a Phd Soil Science typically involves advanced research, teaching, and academic roles requiring a doctoral degree. A Soil Scientist usually holds a bachelor's or master's degree and focuses on practical soil analysis, environmental consulting, and land management. Both roles are vital in soil-related industries but differ mainly in education level and job focus.

What jobs can you get with a soil science degree?

A soil science degree prepares individuals for careers such as soil scientist, environmental consultant, land use planner, conservation specialist, and agricultural researcher. These roles often involve fieldwork, data analysis, and environmental assessment, and may require knowledge of GIS tools and soil testing techniques.

What is a PhD in Soil Science?

A PhD in Soil Science is the highest academic degree focused on the study of soil as a natural resource, including its formation, classification, mapping, physical, chemical, biological, and fertility properties. Students in this program conduct advanced research to solve issues related to agriculture, environmental sustainability, and land management. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, research institutions, government agencies, or industry, contributing to the understanding and management of soil for food production and environmental protection.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD Soil Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD Soil Scientist, you need advanced knowledge in soil chemistry, biology, and physics, supported by a doctorate in soil science or a related field. Familiarity with analytical laboratory instruments, GIS software, and statistical analysis programs is typically required. Strong research, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential for collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and conveying findings to diverse audiences. These skills and qualifications are crucial for conducting impactful research, driving innovation, and informing sustainable land management practices.

What can I do with soil science?

A PhD in soil science prepares individuals for research, teaching, and consulting roles related to soil health, land management, and environmental sustainability. Graduates often work in academia, government agencies, environmental consulting firms, or agricultural industries, utilizing skills in data analysis, fieldwork, and laboratory techniques.

What are some common challenges faced by PhD Soil Scientists when working on interdisciplinary research projects?

PhD Soil Scientists often collaborate with experts in fields like agronomy, ecology, and environmental engineering, which can present challenges in aligning research goals and methodologies. Differences in terminology, data collection standards, and project timelines require strong communication and adaptability. Successfully navigating these challenges can lead to innovative solutions and broaden your professional expertise, but it demands flexibility, continuous learning, and proactive teamwork.

Are soil scientists in demand?

Yes, soil scientists are in demand due to the need for sustainable land management, environmental assessment, and agricultural productivity. Employment opportunities are available in government agencies, research institutions, and consulting firms, often requiring knowledge of GIS tools and soil analysis techniques.
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Phd Soil Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Soil Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,183 per year, or $23.2 per hour.
Postdoc Researcher - Soil Science/Soil Health

Postdoc Researcher - Soil Science/Soil Health

LINCOLN UNIVERSITY

Jefferson City, MO • On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

The postdoctoral researcher is a full-time (and benefit eligible), grant-funded position renewed annually for up to 3-years based on job performance and funding availability. The postdoctoral researcher will be responsible for transforming a large dataset generated from multiple climate-smart research projects coordinated by the Soil Health and Nutrient Management Program into peer-reviewed scientific publications. Additional duties will include (but are not limited to) facilitating activities related to ongoing research projects within the Soil Health and Nutrient Management Programs, supervision, training, and mentoring of undergraduate students in research, lab, and fieldwork protocols.

Essential Job Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Contribute to data collection from various ongoing lab, greenhouse, and/or field experiments and conduct statistical analysis and interpretation of legacy soil and forage data into peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts.
  • Train and supervise both graduate and undergraduate students in research, lab, and fieldwork protocols.
  • Active participation and delivery of technology transfer efforts such as presentations at professional society conferences, farmer-focused field days and workshops are expected.
  • In-state travel for data collection from collaborator farmer field sites is required.
  • Other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

  • Familiarity with the current state of soil health science and related analytical tools including the ability to learn emerging tools such as multi-omics.
  • Must have excellent organizational and communication skills.
  • Must be proficient in multivariate statistical techniques such as Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), as well as others including SAS and R, with demonstrated experience in utilizing them for preparation of scientific manuscripts.
  • Ability to work in a team-oriented environment with a diverse group is required.
  • Ability and desire to conduct lab, greenhouse and fieldwork in all weather conditions.

Qualifications:

  • PhD degree in Agronomy/Soil Science, or other closely related fields is required.
  • Must have a valid driver's license or the ability to obtain a driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Direct professional experiences in soil health research with a notable skill to transform scientific data into peer-reviewed publications.
  • Self-motivated to complete projects and to work to meet job objectives with minimum supervision.
  • Knowledge and ability to operate farm machinery (tractors, flail mowers, etc.)

Physical Demands:

  • Works in an office, lab, field, and greenhouse environments for long hours.
  • Ability to move items up to 25 lbs.

This job description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required for the job and is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice, in accordance with the needs of Lincoln University. Since no job description can detail all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time in the performance of a job, duties and responsibilities that may be inherent in a job, reasonably required for its performance, or required due to the changing nature of the job shall also be considered part of the jobholder's responsibility