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Soil Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Provost & Pritchard

Soil Scientist

Visalia, CA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Soil Science, Environmental Science, Agricultural Engineering, or a related field required. * Strong interest in a career in agriculture, soil science, irrigation, and water ...

Nutrien

Horticulture Consultant

Anaheim, CA · On-site

S. degree in Soil Science, Ornamental Horticulture, or related discipline required; experience may be considered in lieu of education * Ph.D. in Soil Science, Ornamental Horticulture, or related ...

River Partners

Biologist

Sacramento, CA

S or equivalent work experience in ecology, plant biology, soil science, agriculture or natural resource science or related science and Three to five years of appropriate work experience Successful ...

River Partners

Biologist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

S or equivalent work experience in ecology, plant biology, soil science, agriculture or natural resource science or related science and • Three to five years of appropriate work experience • ...

Agri Technovation

Sales Agronomist

Chowchilla, CA

Science-based plant nutrition and soil health is at the root of everything we do. Through our dynamic service offering (precision services, products and the use of our cloud-based data platform that ...

Agri Technovation

Sales Agronomist

Chowchilla, CA · On-site

Science-based plant nutrition and soil health is at the root of everything we do. Through our dynamic service offering (precision services, products and the use of our cloud-based data platform that ...

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All JobsSoil Science JobsSoil Science Jobs in California

Soil Science information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$47.6K

$95.7K

How much do soil science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for soil science in California is $47,552.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,000.00 and $56,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

Are soil scientists in demand?

Soil scientists are in demand due to increasing focus on sustainable agriculture, environmental protection, and land management. Employment opportunities are available in government agencies, research institutions, and consulting firms, often requiring knowledge of GIS tools and soil analysis techniques.

How much do soil scientists get paid?

Soil scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $63,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to over $90,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced certifications and specialized skills can lead to higher compensation, especially in consulting or research roles.

What can I do with soil science?

Soil science professionals analyze soil properties, manage land resources, and support sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. They work in research, environmental consulting, land management, and education, often using tools like GIS and soil testing equipment, and may require certifications or advanced degrees.

What careers involve soil science?

Careers involving soil science include soil scientist, agronomist, environmental consultant, land use planner, and conservation scientist. These roles often require knowledge of soil properties, environmental regulations, and fieldwork skills, and may involve working for government agencies, research institutions, or private companies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Soil Science jobs in California?

The most popular types of Soil Science jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Soil Science jobs in California?

For Soil Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Soil Science jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Soil Science jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Soil Science jobs?

Cities in California with the most Soil Science job openings:

Soil Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Soil Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,552 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Soil Scientist

Provost and Pritchard Consulting Group

Visalia, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Summary

Provost & Pritchard is seeking a Soil Scientist to join our agricultural and environmental consulting team in Visalia, California.


This position offers the opportunity to work on meaningful projects at the intersection of agriculture, water quality, irrigation, nutrient management, salinity, wastewater management, and environmental consulting throughout Central California. Clients include growers, dairies, wineries, food processors, agricultural organizations, nonprofits, and public agencies.


We are looking for someone that wants to support California agriculture and water resources management through practical, effective, and data-driven solutions.


Responsibilities

  • Support agricultural water quality and environmental compliance programs such as the California Irrigated Lands Regulatory Program (ILRP).
  • Support groundwater and surface water quality monitoring programs.
  • Analyze and interpret agricultural, soil, irrigation, nutrient, and environmental data.
  • Prepare technical reports, regulatory deliverables, data summaries, visualizations, and trend analyses.
  • Evaluate and support improved agricultural management practices to protect water quality.
  • Support grower education and outreach efforts.
  • Assist with irrigation, nutrient, salinity, and wastewater management planning.
  • Support wastewater, land application, and beneficial reuse projects.
  • Conduct field sampling and site investigations involving soil, water, wastewater, crops, ponds, wells, and vadose zones.
  • Evaluate soil-water, nutrient, and salt balances using Microsoft Excel and programming tools.
  • Prepareregulatorymonitoring reports andpermittingdocuments, including Reports of Waste Discharge.
  • Assist with field investigations involving soil infiltration and permeability testing.
  • Assist with agronomic field trials, fate and transport projects, and other specialized soil, land use, and agricultural consulting projects.
  • Assist with projects related to agricultural grants, the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), Central Valley Salinity Alternatives for Long-Term Sustainability (CV-SALTS), stormwater management, sediment and erosion control, and TMDL implementation.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Soil Science, Environmental Science, Agricultural Engineering, or a related field required.
  • Strong interest in a career in agriculture, soil science, irrigation, and water quality.
  • Excellent technical writing, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Experience or interest in environmental consulting, regulatory compliance, and project management.
  • Some experience in data analysis and data QAQC.
  • Experienced with Microsoft Office 365, especially Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
  • Strong initiative, attention to detail, and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Soil Science, Environmental Science, Agricultural Engineering, or a related field.
  • Knowledge of California agricultural, environmental, and wastewater regulations, including the Central Valley ILRP, Central Coast Ag Order 4.0, SGMA, CV-SALTS, Winery General Order, and others.
  • Experience with tools such as GIS, R/RStudio, Python, remote sensing, data analysis and visualization, and related AI tools.
  • Familiarity with irrigation, evapotranspiration, nutrient management, salinity management, and/or soil-water balances and hydrologic modeling.
  • Experience in environmental statistics, analytical laboratory methods, and data QA/QC procedures.

Professional Development

Although not required, Provost & Pritchard supports professional development toward credentials such as Certified Professional Soil Scientist (CPSS), Certified Crop Adviser (CCA), Professional Engineer (PE), Professional Geologist (PG), and others.


Why Join Provost & Pritchard

Join a collaborative, employee-owned firm where your work supports California agriculture, water resources, and environmental sustainability. You will have the opportunity to build technical expertise, work on diverse projects, and grow your career with mentorship and support.

Apply