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Soil Analysis Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Overton, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $21.75/hr

Conducts soil analysis for microbiome, DNA extraction, designs and runs qPCR assays and bioinformatic skills to analyze microbiome sequence data. * Assists with supervision of graduate students and ...

Research Assistant

Overton, TX

$15.75 - $21.75/hr

Conducts soil analysis for microbiome, DNA extraction, designs and runs qPCR assays and bioinformatic skills to analyze microbiome sequence data. * Assists with supervision of graduate students and ...

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical journals, financial reports ... Knowledge of soil conservation practices and techniques, including Best Management Practices.

NY · On-site

$89K/yr

Degree: soil conservation or related agricultural or natural resource discipline such as agronomy ... Analyzing workloads, developing and implementing annual work or business plans, and establishing ...

NY · On-site

$89K/yr

Degree: soil conservation or related agricultural or natural resource discipline such as agronomy ... Analyzing workloads, developing and implementing annual work or business plans, and establishing ...

NY · On-site

$89K/yr

Degree: soil conservation or related agricultural or natural resource discipline such as agronomy ... Analyzing workloads, developing and implementing annual work or business plans, and establishing ...

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Soil Analysis information

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$36K

$43.7K

$70K

How much do soil analysis jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for soil analysis in the United States is $43,669.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $38,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in soil analysis, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in soil analysis often encounter challenges such as sample contamination, variability in soil composition, and the need for precise calibration of laboratory equipment. Addressing these issues requires strict adherence to standardized sampling protocols, regular equipment maintenance, and ongoing training in laboratory best practices. Collaboration with agronomists, environmental scientists, and field technicians also helps ensure accurate interpretation of results and effective communication of findings to stakeholders.

What is the difference between Soil Analysis vs Soil Technician?

AspectSoil AnalysisSoil Technician
CertificationsLaboratory certifications, environmental or soil science degreesEnvironmental or soil science certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, field sampling sites, research facilitiesField sites, construction sites, agricultural fields
Job FocusAnalyzing soil samples, interpreting data, reporting resultsCollecting soil samples, preparing sites, assisting in analysis
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, environmental agencies, labsConstruction companies, farms, environmental firms

While both roles involve working with soil, Soil Analysis primarily focuses on laboratory testing and data interpretation, whereas Soil Technicians are more involved in field sampling and sample preparation. Both roles are essential in soil-related projects but differ in their daily tasks and work environments.

What does a soil analyst do?

A soil analyst examines soil samples to determine their composition, nutrient levels, and contamination status. They use laboratory equipment and testing methods to provide data that guides agricultural, environmental, or construction decisions. The role often requires knowledge of soil science, sampling techniques, and reporting results accurately.

What is soil analysis and why is it important?

Soil analysis is the process of testing soil samples to determine their composition, nutrient levels, pH, and other characteristics. This information helps farmers, gardeners, and environmental scientists understand the fertility and health of the soil, which is essential for successful crop production and land management. By identifying nutrient deficiencies or toxicities, soil analysis guides effective fertilization and soil amendment strategies, leading to better yields and sustainable land use. It also helps in monitoring soil contamination and maintaining environmental quality.

How much do soil samplers make?

Soil samplers typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and whether they work for government agencies or private companies. Salaries can also vary based on certifications, field conditions, and the complexity of sampling tasks.

How much does a soil testing technician make?

A soil testing technician typically earns between $35,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. The role often requires knowledge of laboratory equipment and soil analysis techniques, with some positions offering overtime or fieldwork opportunities.

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

To thrive as a Soil Analyst, you need a background in soil science, chemistry, or environmental science, often supported by a relevant degree. Experience using laboratory equipment, soil sampling tools, and analytical software such as GIS and LIMS is typically required. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure accurate soil assessments, effective data interpretation, and clear reporting to support agricultural and environmental decision-making.

How to become a soil analyst?

To become a soil analyst, typically a bachelor's degree in soil science, environmental science, geology, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and developing skills in laboratory analysis and data interpretation are important; certifications such as the Soil Science Society of America Certified Professional Soil Scientist can enhance job prospects.
More about Soil Analysis jobs
What cities are hiring for Soil Analysis jobs? Cities with the most Soil Analysis job openings:
What states have the most Soil Analysis jobs? States with the most job openings for Soil Analysis jobs include:
Infographic showing various Soil Analysis job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,669 per year, or $21 per hour.

Soil Conservationist

FSA, NRCS, RMA, FPAC Careers

Brandon, MS • On-site

$74K/yr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

This position is located in the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), state, area, or field office within a designated state.
The incumbent assists the Conservation District(s) within the managerial unit, consisting of at least one county or district, in the development of a comprehensive natural resources conservation program; and performs professional duties to achieve an integrated system of sound land use and conservation treatment..Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. If education is required or being used to qualify, you must submit a copy of your transcripts.
Basic Requirement: GS-0457:
Degree: Successful completion of a Soil conservation or related agricultural or natural resource discipline such as agronomy, soil science, forestry, agricultural education, or agricultural engineering. The study must have included 30 semester hours in a natural resource or agricultural field, including at least 12 semester hours in a combination of soils and crops or plant science. Of the 12 semester hours, a minimum of 3 semester hours must have been in soils and 3 semester hours in crops or plant science.
OR
Combination of education and experience: at least 30 semester hours in one or more of the disciplines as shown in A above, including at least 12 semester hours in a combination of soils and crops or plant science, plus appropriate experience or additional education. Of the 12 semester hours, a minimum of 3 semester hours must have been in soils and 3 semester hours in crops or plant science.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement, you must also possess experience and/or directly related education listed below.
Specialized Experience Requirement
GS-11: To qualify for the GS-11 level, you must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 level or higher in Federal service, or comparable experience not gained through Federal service. The experience requires the knowledge of the principles and theories of soil and water conservation and related sciences such as biology, agronomy, and forestry, in identifying conservation related problems. Examples include:
  • Providing technical guidance and assistance to groups and individuals on topics such as soil interpretations, erosion control measures, pest and invasive species control, water quality improvements, livestock management, wildlife habitat, and forest management.
  • Preparing conservation or resource management plans and providing financial or implementation assistance.
  • Communicating and sharing general information and explaining issues related to natural resource conservation, problems, and solutions to landowners, residents, and land managers.
OR
Education at the GS-11 grade level: Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree in a field which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work of the position, such as: soil conservation or related agricultural or natural resource discipline such as agronomy, soil science, forestry, agricultural education, or agricultural engineering.
OR
Combination of Education and Experience: A combination of education and experience as listed above. A combination of graduate-level education and experience, as described above, may be used to qualify for this position. This combination must have equipped you with the necessary knowledge and/or experience to successfully perform the duties of this position. Combinations of experience and education must total at least 100% as outlined in OPM Qualifications policy.
For GS-12: To qualify for the GS-12, you must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level in the Federal service, or comparable experience not gained through federal service. The experience requires the knowledge of the principles and theories of soil and water conservation and related sciences such as biology, agronomy, and forestry, in identifying conservation related problems. Examples include:
  • Analyzing workloads, developing and implementing annual work or business plans, and establishing goals within the constraints of funding and staff availability.
  • Directing technical guidance and assistance to groups and individuals on topics such as soil interpretations, erosion control measures, pest and invasive species control, water quality improvements, livestock management, wildlife habitat, and forest management.
  • Preparing complex conservation or resource management plans and providing financial or implementation assistance.
  • Communicating and sharing technical information and explaining issues related to natural resource conservation, problems, and solutions to landowners, residents, and land managers.
  • Implementing and/or managing natural resources programs and practices which involve exercising initiative and resourcefulness.

NOTE: There is no education substitution for specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Time-in-Grade Requirement: If you are a current federal employee in the General Schedule (GS) pay plan and applying for a promotion opportunity, you must meet time-in-grade (TIG) requirements of 52 weeks of service at the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression for the position being filled. You must meet this requirement by the closing date of this announcement.
Education:College Transcript: If qualifying based on education, you must submit a copy of your college transcript with course number and department (i.e., Bio 101, Math 210, etc.), course title, number of credit hours, and grade earned. If a relevant course is not clearly qualifying (e.g., special topic, seminar, research, thesis, obscure or misleading course title, etc.), please submit an official course syllabi and/or detailed course description from the university/college to ensure proper evaluation.
Your education must have been successfully obtained from an accredited school, college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to be credited toward qualifications. You may verify accreditation by visiting the U.S. Department of Education Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs website. We will verify your education accordingly.
Foreign Education: You must submit verification that education completed in a foreign institution, was recognized by an accreditation body accepted by the U.S. Department of Education. You must include a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript. There are private organizations that specialize in this evaluation and a fee is normally associated with this service. For a list of private organizations that evaluate education, visit the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) website. Your transcripts must be in English or include an English translation.
You may submit an unofficial copy of your transcript at the initial phase of the application process. However, if selected, you will be required to submit official transcripts prior to entering on duty. Please refer to the "How to Apply" section for instructions on submitting transcripts.Employment Type: OTHER