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Phd Soil Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA

Required Qualifications PhD in environmental sciences, soil sciences, civil and environmental engineering, or a closely related field awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of ...

The Pennsylvania State University

This position requires a PhD in food science, plant pathology, microbiology, microbial ecology, soil microbiology, or related field. Competitive candidates must have sequence analysis and ...

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How much do phd soil science jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 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 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 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 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 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.

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Phd Soil Science jobs near you
Postdoctoral Associate

Postdoctoral Associate

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA

Other

Posted yesterday

Virginia Tech rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

211th of 530 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Postdoctoral Associate

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536157
Work type: Research Faculty
Senior management: Agriculture & Life Sciences
Department: School of Plant & Environmental Sci
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Agriculture / Life Science, Research / Scientific

Job Description

The successful candidate will conduct research to develop a new set of procedures to specify and analyze BSM for use in Department of Transportation installations. The successful individual will: review existing practices, protocols, and regulations; generate a summary of needs in characterization and composition of bioretention soil media; determine appropriate sample preparation techniques (e.g., bulk density) based on in-field sampling of media from existing bioretention infrastructure; and provide recommendations on revised bioretention soil media specifications and testing procedures. The incumbent will lead the design, execution, analysis, and publication of this research. A strong background in the collection and analysis of soil samples and measurements of soil properties, including hydraulic conductivity, is preferred. Additional opportunities will be available to engage with ongoing projects focused on soil health and sustainable water management in urban settings.

Required Qualifications

PhD in environmental sciences, soil sciences, civil and environmental engineering, or a closely related field awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining; An academic record of excellence with proficiency in written expression.

Preferred Qualifications

Field and laboratory experience, especially with the collection and analysis of soil samples and measurements of soil properties, including hydraulic conductivity

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

53,550-65,029

Hours per week

40

Review Date

05/10/2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Dr. Ryan Stewart at sryan3@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: April 20, 2026
Applications close:

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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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