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Senior Soil Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SUMMARY: The Senior Environmental Scientist will support utility projects by conducting ... Certified Professional Soil Scientist (CPSS) * Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB) * ASTM Phase I ...

Senior Wetland Scientist

Overland Park, KS · On-site

$89K - $121K/yr

... senior level lead wetland scientist in the Overland Park (Kansas City), Kansas or St. Louis ... The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in wetland delineation, plant identification, soil ...

Senior Wetland Scientist

Overland Park, KS · On-site

$86K - $117K/yr

... senior level lead wetland scientist in the Overland Park (Kansas City), Kansas or St. Louis ... The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in wetland delineation, plant identification, soil ...

Senior Wetland Scientist

Wichita, KS · On-site

$81K - $111K/yr

... senior level lead wetland scientist in the Overland Park (Kansas City), Kansas or St. Louis ... The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in wetland delineation, plant identification, soil ...

Senior Wetland Scientist

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

... senior level lead wetland scientist in the Overland Park (Kansas City), Kansas or St. Louis ... The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in wetland delineation, plant identification, soil ...

Senior Wetland Scientist

Kansas City, KS · On-site

$86K - $118K/yr

... senior level lead wetland scientist in the Overland Park (Kansas City), Kansas or St. Louis ... The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in wetland delineation, plant identification, soil ...

Environmental Scientist Lead

Peachtree Corners, GA · On-site

$70K - $93K/yr

Experience and Qualifications • Mid-senior level experience as an environmental consultant or ... Soil Scientist (CPSS), or similar. • Experience supervising one or more junior to mid-level staff ...

Environmental Scientist Lead

Peachtree Corners, GA · On-site

$70K - $93K/yr

Experience and Qualifications • Mid-senior level experience as an environmental consultant or ... Soil Scientist (CPSS), or similar. • Experience supervising one or more junior to mid-level staff ...

Wetland Project Scientist

Manchester, NH · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Leads to potential advancement to more senior technical positions and project management ... NH Certified Soil Scientist (CSS) * Wildlife Monitoring and Botanical Survey experience * 5+ years ...

Leads to potential advancement to more senior technical positions and project management ... NH Certified Soil Scientist (CSS) * Wildlife Monitoring and Botanical Survey experience * 5+ years ...

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Senior Soil Scientist information

See salary details

$66.5K

$110.5K

$164.5K

How much do senior soil scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior soil scientist in the United States is $110,545.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,500.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Soil Scientist vs Soil Technician?

AspectSenior Soil ScientistSoil Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Soil Science, Geology, or related field; often with experienceAssociate's or Bachelor's in Soil Science, Environmental Science, or related field; entry-level or technician certification
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field sites, consulting firms, government agenciesField sampling, lab analysis, site assessments
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, environmental consulting, government agenciesEnvironmental firms, construction, agriculture, government agencies

The main difference between a Senior Soil Scientist and a Soil Technician lies in experience, responsibilities, and education. Senior Soil Scientists typically hold advanced degrees and lead research or consulting projects, while Soil Technicians focus on field sampling and lab work under supervision. Both roles are essential in soil analysis and environmental projects, but the Senior Soil Scientist has a broader scope of responsibilities and expertise.

What does a Senior Soil Scientist do?

A Senior Soil Scientist is responsible for studying and analyzing soil composition, properties, and processes to support land management, agriculture, environmental conservation, and construction projects. They lead soil surveys, interpret laboratory results, and provide recommendations on soil management and remediation. Senior Soil Scientists may supervise teams, conduct research, and collaborate with other environmental professionals to address issues such as soil erosion, contamination, and sustainable land use.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior Soil Scientists during large-scale land assessment projects?

Senior Soil Scientists often encounter challenges such as coordinating fieldwork across diverse and sometimes remote terrains, ensuring data accuracy under variable weather conditions, and integrating findings from multiple scientific disciplines. They also manage teams and must communicate complex soil data to stakeholders with varying levels of technical knowledge. Effective project planning, adaptability, and strong collaboration skills are essential to address these challenges and deliver actionable recommendations.

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

To thrive as a Senior Soil Scientist, you need advanced knowledge in soil science, environmental science, and data analysis, typically supported by a relevant master's or doctoral degree. Experience with laboratory analysis tools, GIS mapping software, and soil classification systems, along with professional certifications such as Certified Professional Soil Scientist (CPSS), is often required. Excellent communication, project management, and leadership skills help you mentor junior staff and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate soil assessments, effective land management recommendations, and successful project outcomes.
More about Senior Soil Scientist jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Soil Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Senior Soil Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Soil Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Soil Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Soil Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Soil Scientist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Senior Soil Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,545 per year, or $53.1 per hour.

Lead Mine Reclamation Soil Scientist

WSP

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


WSP rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description


This Opportunity
WSP is seeking a Lead Mine Reclamation Soil Scientist to join our Mine Closure team. The preferred location is in our Albuquerque, New Mexico office, however, other WSP office locations or a remote position may be considered for the right candidate. #GlobalMining
You will lead and contribute to multiple mine reclamation soil science programs in our southwest US service area with an opportunity to contribute to international projects. You will be responsible for delivering consulting services in soil science data collection and analysis, reporting, and permitting in support of internal and external clients. The position focuses on hard-rock mine reclamation projects with opportunities in coal reclamation and habitat restoration.
Your Impact
  • Lead the development of mine closure plans, soil cover designs, and revegetation protocols to close mine facilities working with other physical scientists and engineers
  • Oversee borrow material investigations and soil inventories to identify suitable reclamation materials and determine soil characteristics
  • Direct quantitative seepage, vegetation, and erosion monitoring studies to ensure compliance with state and federal permit requirements
  • Navigate complex regulatory frameworks to secure approvals for mine operations and closure activities
  • Manage a variety of soil science projects on reclaimed mine lands including field logistics, staffing, budgets and scheduling, data collection, and report generation
  • Coordinate with unsaturated flow modelers to develop inputs for and analyze outputs from long-term cover stability and net percolation modeling efforts
  • Develop study designs, quantitative monitoring plans, and implement field programs that may include test pitting, material characterization sampling and chemical analysis, test plot construction and monitoring, vadose zone sensor installations, and reclamation cover design and grading for closure planning
  • Lead multidisciplinary field programs with teams up to 10 soil scientists, geologists, ecologists, engineers, and technicians
  • Provide health and safety leadership in the field and in the office
  • Collect and manage quantitative soil data including data quality assurance, compilation, analysis, and interpretation
  • Nurture client relationships and actively pursue opportunities related to mining and mine closure. Identify, lead, and contribute to proposals and business development activities
  • Work collaboratively with other senior members of the Mine Environment team on mine closure and reclamation projects and pursuits. Establish links with other environmental and engineering business units to support and enhance service delivery
  • Create detailed reclamation plans and specialized technical reports for mine closure projects
  • Effectively interact with clients, local and regional team professionals, and regulatory officials
  • Potential for travel domestically and internationally. Candidates not located in Albuquerque can expect to travel to New Mexico and project sites regularly
  • Guide and mentor junior staff
  • Oversee and work with cross-functional teams in executing project work and collaborate in response to requests for proposals
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs

Who You Are
Required Qualifications
  • Master of Science in Soil Science, Environmental Science, Range Science, Geology, or closely related field. Also accepted are candidates with a Bachelor of Science having specific relevant experience in lieu of an advanced degree
  • 10 to 15 years of progressive experience in environmental consulting with a primary focus in mining and/or land restoration
  • Strong practical experience in soil science, mine waste chemical/hydraulic characterization, soil cover design and laboratory/field testing (USDA, USCS)
  • Demonstrated experience with field protocols to describe and sample soils, laboratory testing protocols (USDA and USCS), and vadose zone and meteorological monitoring sensors
  • Proven ability to manage and mentor junior staff in the field and office
  • Experience navigating local, regional, and federal mining regulations
  • Ability to manage complex programs involving the collection and analysis of large amounts of data
  • Strong commitment to scientific integrity, QA/QC, workplace safety, and ethical conduct.
  • Manage multiple project assignments while maintaining flexibility to meet cost and schedule objectives
  • Excellent technical communication skills, including preparation of high-quality reports; peer-reviewed publications are an asset.
  • Proficiency with GIS-based field data collection and data analysis/visualization tools (e.g., ArcGIS platforms, R, Python, Excel, Power BI).
  • Experience with unsaturated soil atmospheric modeling software (i.e., HYDRUS, SEEP/W, UNSAT-H, etc.)
  • Willingness to travel and perform physically demanding field work for environmental sampling including flexible work schedules as required
  • Highly capable self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment
  • Ability to work independently and provide guidance and leadership to junior team members, with strict adherence to QA/QC
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies
  • Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's Degree is preferred.
  • Certified Professional Soil Scientist (CPSS) certification.
  • 24-Hour MSHA Part 48 Certification
  • 40-Hour OSHA Health & Safety Training (HAZWOPER) (29 CFR 1910.120) preferred.
  • Basic First Aid and Adult CPR training desired.

#LI-MC2
About Us
About WSP
WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.
www.wsp.com
WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.
At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?
WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.
The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.
NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:
WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.

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