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Research Soil Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Iowa State University

Research Scientist II

Ames, IA · On-site

Research Scientist II Job Group: Professional & Scientific Required Minimum Qualifications ... This position serves as the lead laboratory scientist for soil nitrogen analysis, overseeing ...

The Texas A&M University System

Research Assistant

Overton, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $21.75/hr

Position Information We are seeking a Research Assistant to support soil science and soil microbiology research activities requiring an advanced level of knowledge and laboratory experience in soil ...

Texas A&M AgriLife

Research Assistant

Overton, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $21.75/hr

Position Information We are seeking a Research Assistant to support soil science and soil microbiology research activities requiring an advanced level of knowledge and laboratory experience in soil ...

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Research SOIL Scientist information

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How much do research soil scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for research soil scientist in the United States is $87,049.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical day look like for a Research Soil Scientist?

A typical day for a Research Soil Scientist involves a balance of fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation. You might spend mornings collecting soil samples or monitoring environmental conditions on-site, and afternoons analyzing those samples in the lab or assessing data using specialized software. The role often includes meeting with interdisciplinary teams, writing research reports, and presenting findings to both scientific and industry audiences. This dynamic mix of hands-on investigation and scientific communication makes the position both challenging and rewarding.

Is it hard to become a soil scientist?

Becoming a soil scientist typically requires at least a bachelor's degree in soil science, geology, or a related field, with many positions preferring or requiring a master's or Ph.D. for advanced roles. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in laboratory analysis and GIS tools, and obtaining relevant certifications can also be important for career advancement.

How much do soil scientists get paid?

The average salary for a soil scientist is around $65,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while experienced professionals or those with advanced certifications can earn over $90,000 annually.

What jobs can you get with a soil science degree?

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

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Research Soil Scientist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Soil Scientist, you need a strong background in soil science, environmental science, or a related field, often supported by an advanced degree and experience with field and laboratory research. Familiarity with geospatial analysis tools (like GIS), laboratory instrumentation, and data analysis software is typically required, along with certifications such as Certified Professional Soil Scientist (CPSS) being advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, communication, and collaboration skills help set candidates apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for designing rigorous experiments, accurately interpreting results, and effectively sharing findings with stakeholders in research and applied settings.

What is a Research Soil Scientist job?

A Research Soil Scientist studies soil properties, composition, and processes to understand its effects on agriculture, ecosystems, and the environment. They conduct experiments, collect and analyze soil samples, and develop methods to improve soil health and sustainability. Their work supports land management, conservation efforts, and agricultural productivity. Research Soil Scientists often collaborate with farmers, environmental organizations, and government agencies to guide soil conservation and land-use practices.

Are soil scientists in demand?

Soil scientists are in demand due to increasing environmental concerns, land management needs, and sustainable agriculture practices. Employment opportunities are available in government agencies, research institutions, and environmental consulting firms, often requiring knowledge of GIS tools and soil analysis techniques.
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Research SOIL Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Soil Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,049 per year, or $41.9 per hour.
Postdoctoral Researcher - Soil Science/Soil Health

Postdoctoral Researcher - Soil Science/Soil Health

Lincoln University of Missouri

Jefferson City, MO • On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 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