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Soil Science Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Agricultural Science Tutor

Columbia, MO · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of soil science, plant biology, animal science, agricultural economics, sustainable farming practices, pest management, genetic modification, food science, and environmental ...

TERRACON

Assistant Scientist

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

... and soil. Identify, evaluate and recommend risk and remediation strategies/designs to ensure ... Bachelor's degree, in Environmental Science or related science field and will consider non-degred ...

TERRACON

Assistant Scientist

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

... and soil. Identify, evaluate and recommend risk and remediation strategies/designs to ensure ... Bachelor's degree, in Environmental Science or related science field and will consider non-degred ...

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Soil Science information

See Missouri salary details

$29.1K

$45.2K

$91K

How much do soil science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for soil science in Missouri is $45,196.00, 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 Missouri?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Missouri are hiring for Soil Science jobs?

Cities in Missouri with the most Soil Science job openings:

Soil Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Soil Science job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 10% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,196 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Soil Health Research Specialist

Jefferson City, MO • On-site

LINCOLN UNIVERSITY
See more jobs at LINCOLN UNIVERSITYexternal

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Summary: 

The Soil Health Research Specialist role is a full-time (benefit eligible), grant-funded research specialist position (with the possibility of renewal up to 3-years based on performance and funding availability) to assist the PI (principal investigator) in coordinating and facilitating activities related to several grant-funded projects within the LU's Soil Health Research Lab. Other duties include (but are not limited to) supervision, training, and mentoring of hourly undergraduate students in research, lab, and fieldwork protocols; contribute to data collection and entry from various ongoing experiments and help with preparing data tablets, graphs, and statistical analysis and interpretation into peer-reviewed publications.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Coordinate and facilitate activities related to several grant-funded research projects.
  • Train and mentor hourly undergraduate students in research, lab, and fieldwork protocols.
  • Contribute to data collection and entry from various ongoing experiments and help with preparing data tables.
  • Other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Duties, Responsibilities, Knowledge, Skills, and 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.
  • Proficiency in multivariate statistical techniques such as Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), as well as others including SAS and R, with demonstrated skill in using 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.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • At least a Master's degree in Agronomy/Soil Science, or a closely related field.
  • Must have a valid driver's license or the ability to obtain a driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Professional experience in soil health research with a notable skill to transform scientific data into peer-reviewed publications.
  • Self-starter who completes projects and works to meet job objectives with minimum supervision.
  • Knowledge and ability to operate farm machinery (tractors, flail, mowers, etc.)

Physical Demands:

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


Lincoln University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and institutional needs. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process should contact the Office of Human Resources at 573-681-5018.

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