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Soil Compaction Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

General Laborer

Fowler, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

... Compact soil and aggregate using walk-behind compactors ("Wackers"), jumping jacks, and plate compactors • Set up, maintain, and remove traffic control devices according to project requirements • ...

Soil compaction testing using sand cone or nuclear density gauge * Proctor, Atterberg limits, sieve analysis , and other soil classification tests (as applicable) * Asphalt density testing and ...

Soil compaction testing using sand cone or nuclear density gauge * Proctor, Atterberg limits, sieve analysis , and other soil classification tests (as applicable) * Asphalt density testing and ...

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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 Jun 28, 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 4 methods of soil compaction?

In soil compaction, four common methods are static compaction, dynamic compaction, vibratory compaction, and kneading or sheepsfoot compaction. These techniques are used by soil compaction specialists to increase soil density and stability, often utilizing equipment like rollers, rammers, or vibratory plates. Proper selection of method depends on soil type and project requirements.

How do I become a soil tester?

To become a soil tester, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by training or education in soil science, agronomy, or environmental science. Gaining experience with soil sampling, testing equipment, and laboratory procedures is important, and some positions may require certification or licensing depending on the region and specific testing responsibilities.

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 is a soil compaction tester called?

A soil compaction tester is commonly called a nuclear density gauge or a sand cone tester. These devices are used by soil compaction specialists to measure soil density and moisture content in the field, often requiring certification to operate safely and accurately.

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.

Are soil scientists in demand?

Soil scientists are in demand due to ongoing needs in environmental assessment, land use planning, and infrastructure development. Employment opportunities are often found in government agencies, consulting firms, and research institutions, with a requirement for relevant degrees and fieldwork experience.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, 84% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,526 per year, or $30.5 per hour.
Construction Inspector (Tampa)

Construction Inspector (Tampa)

Synerfac Technical Staffing

Tampa, FL

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Summary:
A geotechnical construction and engineering company is looking for construction inspectors for private sector development to test and inspect various components of foundations. These include bolding, steel, concrete, soil compaction, earthwork, masonry and other components of foundational construction.
Responsibilities:
* Conduct construction phase testing and inspection of various components (foundations, earthwork, soil compaction, concrete, and reinforcing steel)
* Utilize Nuclear Density Gauge for soil testing
* Utilize Slump Cones for concrete
* Communicate inspection findings and testing results with Project Manager"s and Subcontractor"s
* Transportation of sample materials for laboratory analysis
* Preparation of field data and technical reports
* Travel to various construction sites to perform inspections
Qualifications:
* Prior experience as a Construction Inspector
* ICC Certification in relevant disciplines (Ex: Reinforced Concrete, Structural Masonry, Soils, etc.)
* OR NICET Certification
* FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation) Certifications - Preferred
* Such as:
* CTQP Earthwork Level I & II
* CTQP Concrete Field Technician
* (Any additional FDOT Construction or Materials certifications relevant to geotechnical or transportation projects)
* Valid drivers license required

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About Synerfac Technical Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 1987, Synerfac has served three groups, Our Clients, Our Candidates and Our Staff. We treat all three with equal importance because we recognize the synergy of success when one group succeeds, We all succeed. Synerfac is in the business of providing opportunities and adding value. We strive to create extraordinary experiences. For our clients we provide staffing services that enable them to focus on their core competencies which will add value to their businesses. For our employees we provide permanent and temporary assignments that complement their job skills and experience while providing professional and financial rewards. For our staff –we provide careers that are balanced, uplifting and carry the highest rewards by continually improving our business process. Our goal is to enhance the lives and enterprises of all those we touch to make them better off for having known us.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Cherry Hill, NJ, US

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