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Soil Science Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Agricultural Science Tutor

OR · 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 ...

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

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

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Showing results 1-20

Soil Science information

See Oregon salary details

$32.8K

$50.9K

$102.6K

How much do soil science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for soil science in Oregon is $50,943.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,600.00 and $60,300.00 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 Oregon?

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

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

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

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Soil Science jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Soil Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Soil Science job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,943 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Supervisory Research Agronomist/Agricultural Economist/Soil Scientist/Microbiologist

Work With Us : USDA ARS

Pendleton, OR • On-site

$125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

The incumbent will serve as a Supervisory Research Agronomist, Agricultural Economist, Soil Scientist or Microbiologist Leader for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Soil and Water Conservation Research Unit in Pendleton, OR.
As Research Leader of the Management Unit, incumbent is the responsible for developing advanced technologies, improved techniques, and optimized equipment for crop production and soil and water conservation in the Columbia Plateau and related land resource areas.

Qualifications:Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below.
Basic Requirements - Economist Series- 0110:
A. Degree: economics, that included at least 21 semester hours in economics and 3 semester hours in statistics, accounting, or calculus.
OR
B. Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in economics, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Basic Requirements - Microbiologist Series - 0403:
1. Degree: microbiology; or biology, chemistry, or basic medical science that included at least 20 semester hours in microbiology and other subjects related to the study of microorganisms, and 20 semester hours in the physical and mathematical sciences combining course work in organic chemistry or biochemistry, physics, and college algebra, or their equivalent.
OR
2. Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in microbiology, biology, chemistry, or basic medical science that included courses as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Basic Requirements - Soil Scientist Series - 0470:
1. Degree: soil science or a closely related discipline that included 30 semester hours or equivalent in biological, physical, or earth science, with a minimum of 15 semester hours in such subjects as soil genesis, pedology, soil chemistry, soil physics, and soil fertility.
OR
2. Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in soil science or a related discipline that included at least 30 semester hours in the biological, physical, or earth sciences. At least 15 of these semester hours must have been in the areas specified in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Basic Requirements - Agronomy Series - 0471:
1. Degree: agronomy; or related discipline of science that included at least 30 semester hours of course work in the basic plant sciences, including at least 15 semester hours in agronomic subjects, such as those dealing with plant breeding, crop production, and soil and crop management.
OR
2. Combination of education and experience: at least 30 semester hours in the basic plant sciences, including a minimum of 15 semester hours in agronomic subjects, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Graduate Education: Agronomy, or one of the related disciplines or fields of science, such as plant physiology, soils, or genetics, where the curriculum or pattern of training placed major emphasis on field crops or agronomy. Graduate study in related fields, such as botany, plant pathology, and biochemistry may also be qualifying, provided it placed a sufficient amount of emphasis on agronomy.
Examples of advanced degrees appropriate to this position include: agronomy, agricultural economics, natural resource economics, biology, soil science, microbiology, plant physiology, geology, meteorology, botany or the management of soils, water, crops or natural resources.
In addition to meeting the basic requirements described above, applicants must also meet additional qualification requirements as stated below.
GS-14: Applicants must demonstrate at least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-13 grade level in the Federal service. Specialized experience is experience directly related to the position to be filled. The specialized experience requirements for the GS-14 level of this position includes: Independently identifying and conducting basic and applied research for crop production systems and soil science.
GS-15: Applicants must demonstrate at least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-14 grade level in the Federal service. Specialized experience is experience directly related to the position to be filled. The specialized experience requirements for the GS-15 level of this position includes: developing advanced technologies, improved techniques, and optimized equipment for crop production and soil and water conservation and overseeing research projects.
This is an interdisciplinary position and may be filled in any of the job series/position titles listed. In addition to the specialized experience requirements, applicants must submit proof that they meet the educational requirements for at least one of the series described in the announcement. Applicants may only be appointed to job series/position titles for which they meet all experience and educational requirements.
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 and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

To further support your qualifications, it is strongly recommended that you submit a one-page abstract of your MS thesis and/or Ph.D. dissertation. Failure to do so could result in loss of your consideration/referral. Also, please submit a list of names, addresses, and phone numbers of persons familiar with your stature, contributions, recognition; any honors or awards received; memberships in professional or honor societies; invitations to make presentations at scientific/technical meetings; scientific society office and committee assignments; presentations (other than invitation); and publications.

Applicants must be available to report for duty at the time a selection is made. Selections are typically made within 30 days of the closing date of the announcement.

Education:See educational requirements above.
Employment Type: OTHER