ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Soil Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

$102K/yr

... soil science and related areas) -Clear understanding of how to collect of samples or data, refine testing methods, use of equipment or instruments to perform testing for scientific studies ...

US Department of the Navy

$102K/yr

... soil science and related areas) -Clear understanding of how to collect of samples or data, refine testing methods, use of equipment or instruments to perform testing for scientific studies ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

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 money do soil scientists make?

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 roles or those with specialized skills in GIS or laboratory analysis may offer higher compensation.

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, environmental remediation, or government agencies, often using tools like GIS and soil testing equipment. Certification and fieldwork are common components of the career.

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 in research, consulting, or government agencies.

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% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,552 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Rangeland Management Specialist

Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service

Sierraville, CA • On-site

$56K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

This announcement is being advertised as a Forest Service National Hiring effort to fill multiple vacancies. Positions may be filled at one or more of the duty locations included in this announcement. Final determination of the duty location will be made at the time of the job offer.
? For additional information about the duties of this position, please contact Joshua Voorhis at joshua.voorhis@usda.gov.
Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.
Basic Requirement:
GS-0454 Series
  1. Degree: range management; or a related discipline that included at least 42 semester hours in a combination of the plant, animal, and soil sciences, and natural resources management, as follows:
    • Range Management -- At least 18 semester hours of course work in range management, including courses in such areas as basic principles of range management, range plants, range ecology, range inventories and studies, range improvements, and ranch or rangeland planning.
    • Directly Related Plant, Animal, and Soil Sciences -- At least 15 semester hours of directly related courses in the plant, animal, and soil sciences, including at least one course in each of these three scientific areas, i.e., plant, animal, and soil sciences. Courses in such areas as plant taxonomy, plant physiology, plant ecology, animal nutrition, livestock production, and soil morphology or soil classification are acceptable.
    • Related Resource Management Studies -- At least 9 semester hours of course work in related resource management subjects, including courses in such areas as wildlife management, watershed management, natural resource or agricultural economics, forestry, agronomy, forages, and outdoor recreation management.
OR
  1. Combination of education and experience: at least 42 semester hours of course work in the combination of plant, animal, and soil sciences and natural resources management shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

In addition to meeting the basic requirement, you must also possess experience and/or directly related education in the amounts listed below.
Specialized Experience Requirement:For the GS-07 level: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-05 grade level;
OR
One full year of graduate level education in a related field of study.
OR
Appropriate combination of specialized experience and graduate level education.
OR
Superior Academic Achievement (to determine if you are eligible, go to: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-policies/. The education was obtained in an accredited college or university and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work.
Qualifying specialized experience is defined as one or more of the following:
  • Collected basic data from on-the-ground observations to determine rangeland activity suitability, ecological health, ecological status, trend and grazing capacity of the rangeland resource;
  • Gathered basic information for rangeland vegetation programs and monitored strategies and activity permits for compliance and on-the-ground results; and/or
  • Assisted with rangeland improvement projects and maintenance.
For the GS-09 level: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 grade level;
OR
A master's or equivalent graduate degree or 2 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree or LL.B. or J.D., if related;
OR
An appropriate combination of specialized experience and education (only graduate education in excess of 18 semester hours may be used to qualify applicants for this grade level). The education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work.
Qualifying specialized experience is defined as one or more of the following:
  • Assisted senior specialists in performing scientific and technical analysis and/or providing technical advice concerning rangeland management topics and/or issues;
  • Assisted in performing recurring, well-defined, and moderately difficult range improvement projects such as preparing allotment management plans, locating, designing, and placing fences, signs, cattle guards, determining stocking and rotation plans and similar projects; and/or
  • Assisted in preparing segments of conventional range use plans under multiple-use sustained yield concepts or developing simple activity plans.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:See above for education that may be qualifying for the specific grade level.Employment Type: OTHER

Apply