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Soil Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GAI Consultants

SPC Soil Scientist

Canonsburg, PA

Certification by the Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) (e.g., Certified Professional Soil Scientist - CPSS) required to sign and seal official site evaluations. * Bachelor's degree in Soil ...

GAI Consultants

SPC Soil Scientist

Homestead, PA

Certification by the Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) (e.g., Certified Professional Soil Scientist - CPSS) required to sign and seal official site evaluations. * Bachelor's degree in Soil ...

GAI Consultants

SPC Soil Scientist

Homestead, PA · On-site

Certification by the Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) (e.g., Certified Professional Soil Scientist - CPSS) required to sign and seal official site evaluations. * Bachelor's degree in Soil ...

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$31K

$48.2K

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How much do soil science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for soil science in the United States is $48,183.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $57,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Soil Scientist, you need a solid background in soil chemistry, biology, and environmental science, usually supported by a degree in soil science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, GIS mapping software, and soil sampling equipment is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication skills help Soil Scientists interpret data and collaborate with stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate research, effective land management, and informed decision-making in agriculture or environmental conservation.

What does a soil scientist do?

A soil scientist studies soil properties, composition, and health to understand its suitability for agriculture, construction, and environmental management. They analyze soil samples, use laboratory tools, and often work outdoors to assess soil quality and recommend sustainable practices.

What is the difference between Soil Science vs Agronomist?

AspectSoil ScienceAgronomist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Soil Science, certifications in soil analysisBachelor's or Master's in Agronomy, certifications in crop management
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, field sampling, research facilitiesFarms, research stations, consulting settings
Industry UsageResearch institutions, environmental agencies, soil testing labsFarming operations, agricultural companies, consulting firms

Soil Science focuses on understanding soil properties, classification, and health, often involving research and laboratory work. Agronomists apply this knowledge to improve crop production and advise farmers. While both roles require similar credentials and may work in related environments, Soil Scientists tend to focus more on soil analysis and conservation, whereas Agronomists emphasize crop management and sustainable farming practices.

How much does a soil scientist get paid?

The average salary for a soil scientist is around $60,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while experienced professionals or those with advanced certifications can earn higher salaries. Soil scientists often work in environmental consulting, research, or government agencies, utilizing skills in field sampling and laboratory analysis.

What careers involve soil science?

Careers involving soil science include soil scientist, agronomist, environmental consultant, land use planner, and conservation scientist. These roles typically require knowledge of soil properties, environmental regulations, and often involve fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation.

What can I do with soil science?

Soil science professionals analyze soil properties, fertility, and health to support agriculture, environmental management, and land use planning. They may work in research, consulting, government agencies, or environmental organizations, often using tools like GIS and soil testing equipment. Certification and knowledge of ecology and chemistry can enhance career opportunities.

What are some common challenges soil scientists face when conducting fieldwork, and how can they prepare for them?

Soil scientists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to sampling sites during fieldwork. Preparation is key—this includes reviewing site conditions in advance, ensuring proper equipment is packed, and developing contingency plans for weather disruptions. Collaborating with local landowners or agencies can also help overcome access issues, while thorough pre-field planning minimizes risks and ensures data collection is efficient and accurate.

What is soil science?

Soil science is the study of soil as a natural resource, including its formation, classification, mapping, physical and chemical properties, and its role in supporting plant growth. Soil scientists analyze how soils interact with living organisms, water, and the atmosphere to better understand agricultural productivity, environmental quality, and land management. This field is crucial for sustainable farming, environmental conservation, and land use planning.
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Soil Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Soil Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,183 per year, or $23.2 per hour.
Postdoc Researcher - Soil Science/Soil Health

Postdoc Researcher - Soil Science/Soil Health

LINCOLN UNIVERSITY

Jefferson City, MO • On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

The postdoctoral researcher is a full-time (and benefit eligible), grant-funded position renewed annually for up to 3-years based on job performance and funding availability. The postdoctoral researcher will be responsible for transforming a large dataset generated from multiple climate-smart research projects coordinated by the Soil Health and Nutrient Management Program into peer-reviewed scientific publications. Additional duties will include (but are not limited to) facilitating activities related to ongoing research projects within the Soil Health and Nutrient Management Programs, supervision, training, and mentoring of undergraduate students in research, lab, and fieldwork protocols.

Essential Job Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Contribute to data collection from various ongoing lab, greenhouse, and/or field experiments and conduct statistical analysis and interpretation of legacy soil and forage data into peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts.
  • Train and supervise both graduate and undergraduate students in research, lab, and fieldwork protocols.
  • Active participation and delivery of technology transfer efforts such as presentations at professional society conferences, farmer-focused field days and workshops are expected.
  • In-state travel for data collection from collaborator farmer field sites is required.
  • Other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

  • Familiarity with the current state of soil health science and related analytical tools including the ability to learn emerging tools such as multi-omics.
  • Must have excellent organizational and communication skills.
  • Must be proficient in multivariate statistical techniques such as Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), as well as others including SAS and R, with demonstrated experience in utilizing them for preparation of scientific manuscripts.
  • Ability to work in a team-oriented environment with a diverse group is required.
  • Ability and desire to conduct lab, greenhouse and fieldwork in all weather conditions.

Qualifications:

  • PhD degree in Agronomy/Soil Science, or other closely related fields is required.
  • Must have a valid driver's license or the ability to obtain a driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Direct professional experiences in soil health research with a notable skill to transform scientific data into peer-reviewed publications.
  • Self-motivated to complete projects and to work to meet job objectives with minimum supervision.
  • Knowledge and ability to operate farm machinery (tractors, flail mowers, etc.)

Physical Demands:

  • Works in an office, lab, field, and greenhouse environments for long hours.
  • Ability to move items up to 25 lbs.

This job description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required for the job and is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice, in accordance with the needs of Lincoln University. Since no job description can detail all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time in the performance of a job, duties and responsibilities that may be inherent in a job, reasonably required for its performance, or required due to the changing nature of the job shall also be considered part of the jobholder's responsibility