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Phd Soil Science Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Phd Soil Science information

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 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.

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 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.

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.

How much money do soil scientists make?

Soil scientists with a PhD typically earn between $60,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Advanced degrees and specialized skills in soil analysis, environmental consulting, or research can lead to higher salaries and more senior positions.

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 research scientists, utilizing skills in data analysis, fieldwork, and laboratory techniques. Advanced knowledge of soil properties and environmental impact assessments are key components of these careers.

What jobs can you get with a Phd soil science degree?

A PhD in soil science prepares individuals for advanced roles such as soil scientist, environmental consultant, research scientist, or university professor. These positions often involve fieldwork, laboratory analysis, data interpretation, and may require publishing research or securing funding.

What are popular job titles related to Phd Soil Science jobs in Colorado?

For Phd Soil Science jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Phd Soil Science jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Phd Soil Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd Soil Science job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Hybrid job distribution.

Pasture-based agrivoltaics researcher

Colorado State University

Fort Collins, CO • On-site

$38.46/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Colorado State University rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

462nd of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job DescriptionFull Consideration Date: August 17, 2026
Essential Job Duties

1) Install, trouble-shoot and maintain field sensors (for soil temperature and water and weather variables) and associated dataloggers at field sites
2) Collect and manage large datasets from the field sensor network
3) Lead soil sampling 'campaigns' at two agrivoltaic field sites, collecting soil samples for analysis of soil physical and biochemical characteristics.
4) Supervise lab technician doing sample processing
5) Analysis, including statistical and process-modeling analysis of data
6) Presenting results at national and international scientific meetings
7) Leading publication of research results in scientific journals.

Decision Making
  • Decide on appropriate actions to clean up/patch the large, time-series datasets
  • Decisions dealing with issues and personnel that come up with sample processing in the lab
  • Assist with decisions on experimental design implementation in the field
  • Decisions on how to best present and publish experimental results and conclusions
Supervision

Will supervise 1-2 hourly lab technicians who will assist with soil and plant sample processing and analysis

Minimum Qualifications

PhD in soil science, ecology or related environmental science area
Previous experience (1 yr minimum) in conducting field research in grassland environments
Demonstrated ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals

Preferred Qualifications

Previous experience (1 yr minimum) working on agrivoltaics research

Conditions of Employment
  • Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for all new hires)
  • Valid driver's license by employment start date.
  • Authorized to work in the United States by employment start date.
  • Available to go on 3-4 day duration sampling trips to field sites in GA and TN
Salary Range$38.46Required Application Documents

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Cover Letter, Resume/CV Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a thriving community that's transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance,CSUis where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

  • Review our detailed benefits information here.

  • Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.

  • For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.

  • Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations,CSUconducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.


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About Colorado State University

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Colorado State University is one of the nation’s top public Tier 1 Research universities and an institution on the rise. Our Ram success is driven by an ambition to be excellent in all we do combined with an unparalleled location that is one of the fastest-growing and most vibrant areas in the country. CSU is a higher education destination for working and learning for faculty, staff, and students from across Colorado, the nation, and around the globe. CSU has produced record enrollment in the past decade, built on all-time highs in student diversity and student success, experienced record fundraising and research expenditures that keep hitting new highs year-after-year, and our faculty are known nationally and internationally for their groundbreaking research. Among other recognition for research and creative scholarship, CSU was recognized in 2022 as one of 10 top research institutions in the world contributing to solving the COVID pandemic. CSU is thriving, with a five-year average enrollment of more than 33,400 students. The record-setting 2022 incoming class of 5,517 students reflects 25% from diverse populations and 24% who were first in their families to attend college. CSU graduates find success with 85% securing a job related to their career plans within six months of graduation. More than nine out of 10 Rams would select CSU again, demonstrating the quality of the campus and learning environments.

Industry

Education

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Fort Collins, CO, US

Year founded

1870

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