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Soil Compaction Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Soil Technician

Roswell, GA

$34K - $37K/yr

Verify soil compaction for building pads, roadways, retaining walls, utilities, and structural fill areas. * Observe proof rolls and earthwork operations to confirm compliance with project ...

Soil Technician

Roswell, GA

$34K - $37K/yr

Verify soil compaction for building pads, roadways, retaining walls, utilities, and structural fill areas. * Observe proof rolls and earthwork operations to confirm compliance with project ...

Operate a nuclear density gauge to perform soil compaction testing on active construction sites. * Conduct soil testing and soil sampling in the field and prepare samples for analysis. * Perform ...

Operate a nuclear density gauge to perform soil compaction testing on active construction sites. * Conduct soil testing and soil sampling in the field and prepare samples for analysis. * Perform ...

SEASONAL EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Pierre, SD · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Duties include work on construction projects including equipment operations, back filling, loading dump trucks, soil compaction and assistance with water main installation. Qualifications Must be 18 ...

SEASONAL EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Pierre, SD · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Duties include work on construction projects including equipment operations, back filling, loading dump trucks, soil compaction and assistance with water main installation. Qualifications Must be 18 ...

This role involves managing a team of equipment operators and laborers, directing daily tasks, and maintaining quality control throughout the excavation, grading, and soil compaction processes. The ...

Perform field testing and inspection of soil compaction to verify compliance with project specifications and standards. * Conduct field inspection and testing of asphalt placement and compaction to ...

New

Perform field testing and inspection of soil compaction to verify compliance with project specifications and standards. * Conduct field inspection and testing of asphalt placement and compaction to ...

New

Hand Labor (56879)

Franklin, TX · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

... soil compaction. - Experience in site preparation and cleaning, including debris removal. Required Skills and Abilities: - Ability to lift heavy objects (50+ lbs regularly) and perform physically ...

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Soil Compaction information

See salary details

$11K

$63.5K

$69.5K

How much do soil compaction jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for soil compaction in the United States is $63,526.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel in Soil Compaction roles, you need practical experience with soil compaction techniques, an understanding of soil types, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy machinery such as rollers, compactors, and soil testing equipment, as well as OSHA safety certifications, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this field. These abilities are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and accurate compaction results on construction sites, directly affecting the quality and stability of projects.

What does a Soil Compaction job involve?

A Soil Compaction job involves using specialized equipment to compress soil, increasing its density and stability for construction projects. Workers operate rollers, tampers, and compactors to reduce air gaps in the soil, preventing future settling or shifting. This process is essential for building strong foundations, roads, and other infrastructure. Soil compaction specialists must understand soil types, moisture levels, and compaction techniques to ensure proper ground preparation.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in soil compaction?

In a soil compaction role, your typical day involves preparing and operating machinery like rollers and compactors to achieve specified soil densities at construction sites. You will regularly assess soil conditions, perform compaction tests, and document results to meet engineering standards. Collaboration with site supervisors, engineers, and other construction professionals is required to coordinate tasks and maintain project schedules. Attention to equipment maintenance and adherence to safety protocols are also important parts of the job. This hands-on work environment offers the opportunity to be directly involved in building stable foundations for various structures.

What is the work of soil compaction?

Soil compaction work involves using equipment like rollers or rammers to increase soil density, which improves stability and load-bearing capacity for construction projects. Soil compaction specialists assess soil conditions and operate machinery to ensure proper compaction levels, often requiring knowledge of geotechnical principles and safety protocols.

Are soil scientists in demand?

Soil scientists are in demand due to ongoing needs in environmental assessment, land use planning, and infrastructure development. They often work for government agencies, consulting firms, or research institutions, and certifications in soil science or related fields can enhance job prospects.

How much does a soil testing technician make?

A soil testing technician typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. The role often requires knowledge of soil analysis tools and laboratory procedures, with some positions offering overtime or fieldwork opportunities.

How long does it take to become a soil technician?

Becoming a soil technician typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or a short certification program that can last from a few days to several weeks. Some positions may prefer or require post-secondary education in environmental science, geology, or related fields, which can take one to two years. Certification in soil testing or equipment operation can enhance job prospects but is not always mandatory.
More about Soil Compaction jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Soil Compaction jobs? The most popular types of Soil Compaction jobs are:
Infographic showing various Soil Compaction job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,526 per year, or $30.5 per hour.
Soil Technician

Soil Technician

Actalent

Roswell, GA

$34K - $37K/yr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Construction Materials Testing Technician II/III – Soil Technician

Job Description

This role focuses on field-based construction materials testing, quality assurance inspections, and construction observation on commercial, roadway, utility, and site development projects. The technician performs soil compaction testing, concrete testing, and construction inspections, with significant time spent on active construction sites. The position offers strong training support, paid initial certifications, and clear opportunities to advance from core technician duties into higher-level responsibilities and certifications.

Responsibilities

  • Perform field density testing using nuclear gauge equipment to verify soil compaction.
  • Verify soil compaction for building pads, roadways, retaining walls, utilities, and structural fill areas.
  • Observe proof rolls and earthwork operations to confirm compliance with project requirements.
  • Collect soil samples for laboratory testing and ensure proper handling and documentation.
  • Document moisture content, lift thickness, and compaction results for each test location.
  • Verify contractor compliance with project specifications and geotechnical recommendations.
  • Perform concrete field testing in accordance with applicable standards and procedures.
  • Conduct slump, air content, temperature, and unit weight testing on fresh concrete.
  • Cast, label, and transport concrete cylinders for laboratory curing and strength testing.
  • Monitor concrete placement activities to ensure proper methods and quality are maintained.
  • Document concrete test results and detailed field observations in a timely manner.
  • Perform inspections of masonry, asphalt, geosynthetics, and general site construction activities.
  • Observe contractor operations for compliance with project plans, specifications, and quality standards.
  • Identify construction deficiencies and communicate findings clearly to project managers and clients.
  • Verify that materials and installation methods meet required quality and project standards.
  • Complete daily field reports using company software and maintain accurate testing records.
  • Maintain organized inspection logs, test data, and supporting documentation.
  • Upload photographs and other supporting documentation to project files as required.
  • Communicate project status, test results, and any issues to office personnel and project teams.
  • Report non-conforming construction activities when observed and assist in documenting corrective actions.
  • Drive to multiple job sites throughout Georgia, primarily within the Atlanta area.
  • Check in with contractors on site, review plans, and verify the scope of testing and inspection activities.
  • Work under the direction of a tenured person on-site who assigns and delegates daily tasks.
  • Monitor earthwork, backfill operations, soils work, and random concrete pours as assigned.
  • Perform hands-on soils work, including proof rolls, moisture content testing, and soil density testing using drive rings and related equipment.
  • Adapt to changing daily assignments, working independently or as part of a crew depending on job needs.

Essential Skills

  • At least 4+ years of Construction Materials Testing (CMT) soils experience, including soil compaction and soil density testing.
  • Demonstrated experience with soil testing, soil sampling, soil compaction, and soil density verification.
  • Experience performing concrete testing, including slump, air content, temperature, and unit weight testing.
  • Experience with construction materials testing for concrete, soils, asphalt, and related materials.
  • Ability to perform field density testing using nuclear gauge equipment and interpret results accurately.
  • Ability to verify contractor compliance with project specifications and geotechnical recommendations.
  • Strong field documentation skills, including report writing, maintaining inspection logs, and using company software for daily reports.
  • Willingness and ability to work a flexible schedule, including early mornings, nights, weekends, and extended hours as needed.
  • Dependability and reliability in meeting schedules, responding to changing job demands, and supporting construction timelines.
  • Comfort working outdoors in varying weather conditions on active construction sites.
  • Valid certifications or strong capability to obtain the following: ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I, Nuclear Gauge Safety Certification, and relevant ICC Special Inspector Certifications.
  • Commitment to safe work practices, including the use of nuclear gauges and adherence to safety protocols.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I certification.
  • Nuclear Gauge Safety Certification for safe operation of nuclear density gauges.
  • NICET certification in relevant construction materials testing disciplines.
  • ICC Soils Special Inspector Certification and other ICC Special Inspector Certifications.
  • GSWCC Level 1A Fundamentals certification.
  • OSHA 10-Hour Construction certification.
  • OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER certification.
  • RTT certifications related to construction testing and inspection.
  • Experience with asphalt testing and inspection.
  • Experience with geosynthetics and masonry inspection is beneficial.
  • Strong report writing skills and familiarity with construction materials testing documentation requirements.
  • Experience using nuclear gauges, drive rings, and related soil testing equipment.
  • Ability to travel and stay overnight for certain projects, including potential work on projects in the Caribbean and Virgin Islands.
  • Interest in professional growth, including obtaining additional certifications and expanding into higher-level inspection roles.
  • Willingness to take advantage of company-supported training resources, including paid first-round certifications, study support, and cross-training with tenured technicians.

Work Environment

This is a primarily field-based role working on active construction sites in and around Atlanta, with travel throughout Georgia and occasional overnight stays for specific projects. Typical workweeks range from approximately 45 to 55 hours, often Monday through Friday with some Saturdays or Sundays, depending on construction schedules and weather-related make-up days. Shifts vary significantly and may include early morning or nighttime concrete pours; technicians may work schedules such as 3:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., midnight to 10:00 a.m., or more traditional daytime hours such as 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Flexibility is essential, as there is no fixed “typical” day, and work may shift between day and night over the course of a week. The role involves working outdoors in all seasons and varying weather conditions, driving to multiple job sites, and performing hands-on testing and inspection tasks on soils, concrete, asphalt, and other construction materials. A tenured person on-site typically oversees operations and delegates tasks, but technicians are expected to work both independently and as part of crews depending on project needs. The company provides a supportive, smaller-firm environment with a strong emphasis on training, mentorship, and certification support. Employees receive resources to excel, including paid first-round certifications, study assistance, and cross-training from tenured technicians. There is potential access to a company truck and fuel card, with the ability to drive the truck between home and job sites as an earned privilege. The organization invests in employee development and encourages upward mobility, helping technicians move beyond basic concrete or soils work into more advanced roles and certifications, including opportunities on projects in the Caribbean and Virgin Islands. Dress and personal protective equipment are typical of construction field work, with appropriate safety gear required on active job sites.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Roswell, GA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $30.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Roswell,GA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 27, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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