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Soil Science Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance shallow boreholes in soil. * Oversee a 2-man drill crew ... scientific expertise to solving our clients' challenges and achieve their goals for project ...

Nutrien

Seasonal Lab Technician, Day Shift

Atlantic, IA · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Prepare soil samples for a wide variety of testing procedures, following outlined methodologies and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). * Operate and maintain scientific equipment/instrumentation.

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

... soil and rock samples; perform routine maintenance and basic repairs on drilling equipment, prepare ... scientific expertise to solving our clients' challenges and achieve their goals for project ...

Nutrien

Seasonal Lab Technician, Night Shift

Atlantic, IA · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Prepare soil samples for a wide variety of testing procedures, following outlined methodologies and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). * Operate and maintain scientific equipment/instrumentation.

Heartland Co-op

Precision Ag Specialist

Clive, IA · On-site

Partner with NRCS and soil and water districts to deliver opportunities and funding to our farmers ... Language Ability: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical ...

Heartland Co-op

Precision Ag Specialist

Clive, IA · On-site

Partner with NRCS and soil and water districts to deliver opportunities and funding to our farmers ... Language Ability: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsSoil Science JobsSoil Science Jobs in Iowa

Soil Science information

See Iowa salary details

$29.1K

$45.3K

$91.1K

How much do soil science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for soil science in Iowa is $45,256.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,200.00 and $53,500.00 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 Iowa?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Soil Science jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Soil Science job openings:

Soil Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Soil Science job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Internship, 68% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,256 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

TERRACON

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Terracon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 119 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 rated business consultants

Job description


Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include auger drilling, mud rotary drilling, air rotary drilling, and diamond bit coring techniques. In-situ testing techniques may include cone penetration testing (CPT), pressure meter testing, and rock dilatometer testing. Work may also include the installation of instrumentation such as piezometers, monitor wells and inclinometers. Work as part of a multiple person team on projects. ETMs will perform daily tasks including survey and locate drilling points; conduct site reconnaissance; load/unload tooling, materials and samples; classify soil and rock samples; perform routine maintenance and basic repairs on drilling equipment, prepare internal (daily field forms) and external (DOT Logs) paperwork.
Responsibilities
  • This is an entry level position. No experience is required.
  • The employee will be expected perform following tasks:
    • Load tooling and materials.
    • Assist in drilling operations and instrumentation and monitoring well installation.
    • Collect soil and rock samples and log field data.
    • Perform routine repairs and maintenance.
    • Perform basic surveying and site reconnaissance.
    • Drive a medium-duty truck and trailer.
    • Learn to inspect and how to maintain equipment.
    • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects.
    • Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
    • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Limited or no experience required
  • A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history

Required Qualifications:
  • Ability to obtain a DOT Medical Card within first 30 days of employment.

About Us
Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.
Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
About the Team
Innovation and hands-on practice come together in our geotechnical consulting services. We provide geotechnical services nationwide for a wide range of projects, drawing on six decades of historical geotechnical data, a fleet of more than 200 drill rigs, 140 accredited laboratories, and thousands of employees to quickly organize or capture site data wherever projects are located. From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration, we deliver precision, value-added subsurface information and engineering and scientific expertise to solving our clients' challenges and achieve their goals for project sustainability, quality, and efficiency.

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