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Soil Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Lab Engineer (Intern) plays a crucial role in advancing ANS's geotechnical engineering ... Diligently process and prepare soil and rock samples for testing upon receipt at the laboratory.

The Lab Engineer (Intern) plays a crucial role in advancing ANS's geotechnical engineering ... Diligently process and prepare soil and rock samples for testing upon receipt at the laboratory.

The Lab Engineer (Intern) plays a crucial role in advancing ANS's geotechnical engineering ... Diligently process and prepare soil and rock samples for testing upon receipt at the laboratory.

The Lab Engineer (Intern) plays a crucial role in advancing ANS's geotechnical engineering ... Diligently process and prepare soil and rock samples for testing upon receipt at the laboratory.

Lab Engineer (Intern)

Alvarado, TX · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

The Lab Engineer (Intern) plays a crucial role in advancing ANS's geotechnical engineering ... Diligently process and prepare soil and rock samples for testing upon receipt at the laboratory.

The Lab Engineer (Intern) plays a crucial role in advancing ANS's geotechnical engineering ... Diligently process and prepare soil and rock samples for testing upon receipt at the laboratory.

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

... lab ... Processing full or filled bins and soil bags, autoclave the waste/ soil bags check the drying oven ...

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Soil Lab information

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$12

$22

$34

How much do soil lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for soil lab in the United States is $22.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced technicians with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often working in laboratory or field environments with tools like soil analyzers.

What is the highest paying lab technician job?

The highest paying lab technician roles are often in specialized fields such as clinical laboratory management, research and development, or environmental testing, with salaries increasing for those with advanced certifications or degrees. Positions in industries like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or environmental consulting tend to offer higher compensation, especially for those with extensive experience or supervisory responsibilities.

What is the difference between Soil Lab vs Soil Technician?

AspectSoil LabSoil Technician
CertificationsOften requires a degree in soil science, environmental science, or related fieldsTypically requires a high school diploma or associate degree, with some certifications in soil sampling or testing
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, analyzing soil samples and dataFieldwork, collecting soil samples from various sites
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, environmental agencies, agricultural companiesConstruction, agriculture, environmental consulting firms

While both Soil Lab and Soil Technician roles involve working with soil, Soil Lab professionals primarily analyze samples in a lab setting and often hold higher educational credentials. Soil Technicians focus on field sampling and data collection, supporting lab analysis. Both roles are essential in soil-related industries but differ in work environment and required qualifications.

How do I become a soil tester?

To become a soil tester, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with knowledge of soil science or related fields. Gaining experience through internships or training in laboratory techniques, and obtaining relevant certifications such as soil testing or environmental analysis, can improve job prospects. Familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety procedures is also important.

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

Professionals in a soil lab often face challenges such as maintaining sample integrity, managing high sample volumes, and ensuring precise calibration of analytical instruments. Attention to detail and strong organizational skills are essential to prevent cross-contamination between samples. Effective communication and collaboration with agronomists, environmental scientists, and field technicians also play a key role in interpreting results and ensuring data accuracy. Regular training and adherence to strict laboratory protocols help address these challenges and support reliable soil analysis.

What does a soil lab do?

A soil lab is responsible for analyzing soil samples to determine their physical, chemical, and biological properties. This analysis helps farmers, gardeners, and environmental professionals understand soil fertility, pH levels, nutrient content, and the presence of contaminants. The results from a soil lab can guide decisions about fertilization, crop selection, and land management to improve plant growth and environmental sustainability. Soil labs use specialized equipment and scientific methods to ensure accurate and reliable results.

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

To thrive as a Soil Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of soil science, laboratory procedures, and data analysis, often supported by a degree in environmental science, agronomy, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instruments such as pH meters, spectrophotometers, and software for data management is essential. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are key soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure accurate soil analysis, reliable data interpretation, and effective collaboration, which are vital for supporting agricultural and environmental decision-making.

Is it hard to become a soil scientist?

Becoming a soil scientist typically requires a bachelor's degree in soil science, geology, environmental science, or a related field, with advanced positions often needing a master's or Ph.D. It also involves developing skills in laboratory analysis, fieldwork, and data interpretation, and obtaining relevant certifications can enhance job prospects.
More about Soil Lab jobs
What cities are hiring for Soil Lab jobs? Cities with the most Soil Lab job openings:
What states have the most Soil Lab jobs? States with the most job openings for Soil Lab jobs include:
Infographic showing various Soil Lab job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,864 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Lab Engineer (Intern)

ANS

South Plainfield, NJ

$18 - $22/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

The Lab Engineer (Intern) plays a crucial role in advancing ANS's geotechnical engineering initiatives by conducting soil testing within our in-house geotechnical lab. This role primarily encompasses sample preparation, the execution of tests following established standards, and routine workstation maintenance. The intern is expected to play a key role in contributing to the success of our geotechnical projects through attention to detail and adherence to industry-established testing protocols.
 
We are looking for a lab intern ideally graduating by Fall 2025 or Spring 2026. This role offers a hands-on experience in a collaborative lab environment. Candidates who express interest in staying in the geotechnical field and are a strong cultural fit may be considered for a full-time offer after graduation. 
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Sample Preparation: Diligently process and prepare soil and rock samples for testing upon receipt at the laboratory.
  • Testing: Perform a variety of geotechnical tests in adherence to established ASTM or AASHTO protocols.
  • Workstation Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance and cleaning procedures including washing reusable laboratory equipment.
  • Data Recording: Maintain comprehensive documentation of test procedures, observations, and results, prioritizing data accuracy and integrity for subsequent analysis.
  • Safety Compliance: Commit to adherence to safety protocols and guidelines, actively fostering a secure work environment and minimizing risks related to laboratory operations.
  • Multi-tasking: Proficient in managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Non-Testing Duties: Other duties as assigned for day-to-day laboratory operations, including but not limited to packaging and shipping field equipment, ordering and restocking lab supplies, and coordinating the disposal of soils
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Education: Applicants should be pursuing a degree in geology, civil engineering, environmental sciences, materials sciences, or a related field.
  • Physical Fitness: Refer to the detailed physical requirements outlined below.
  • In-Person Position: This is an in-person position that requires candidates to be present at the lab for effective contribution. Remote work is not applicable.
  • Attention to Detail: Strong attention to detail is essential to ensuring precision in sample
  • preparation and test procedures.
  • Safety Awareness: Comprehensive understanding and strict adherence to safety protocols are a must.
  • Communication: Effective communication skills are needed to facilitate collaboration with team members and record or report findings.
  • Laboratory Experience: Having prior experience in a laboratory setting, particularly in
  • Geotechnical or material testing is advantageous.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Prolonged periods (6-8 hours) of walking and standing are applicable for this position.
  • Regularly lift, move, push, and pull heavy weights (25 to 50 lbs.) throughout the shift. Should be able to handle such tasks independently or with minimal assistance.
  • Frequent kneeling and squatting
$18 - $22 an hour
INTERNSHIP DURATION
The internship is initially set for a four-month period, with the possibility of periodic (multiple) extensions based on the candidate's performance and overall development.
 
Schedule:
8 hour shift
Choose your own hours
Monday to Friday
Weekends as needed
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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