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Soil Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Perform testing of concrete and asphalt samples to support construction materials quality control. * Record, analyze, and interpret test results accurately to assess soil density and material ...

Perform testing of concrete and asphalt samples to support construction materials quality control. * Record, analyze, and interpret test results accurately to assess soil density and material ...

Evaluate soil hydraulic conductivity and perform percolation testing as required by project scope. * Communicate field investigation plans and instructions clearly to internal staff and ...

Evaluate soil hydraulic conductivity and perform percolation testing as required by project scope. * Communicate field investigation plans and instructions clearly to internal staff and ...

Evaluate soil hydraulic conductivity and perform percolation testing as required by project scope. * Communicate field investigation plans and instructions clearly to internal staff and ...

Soil Technician

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Soil Technician A local geotechnical firm is seeking a Soil Technician to work on construction ... Responsibilities also include testing concrete and asphalt samples. This position is ideal for ...

Agriculture / Life Science Performs daily analytical and clerical tasks of the Soil Testing Laboratory that annually receives over 50,000 samples. The laboratory's test results are used to help ...

Zoning Administrator

Ladysmith, WI · On-site

$31.59 - $33.39/hr

Maintain certified soil tester credential. Prepare training for local plumbers related to POWTS changes and updates. Interpretation and enforcement of zoning codes and regulations, scheduling ...

Laborer/Drill Rig Helper

Oxford, CT · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Soil Testing Inc Has an Excellent Benefits Package, Including: * Medical. * Dental. * 401k with sharing match. * Paid holidays and vacations. * Uniform. * Plus. Soiltesting Inc. is An EOE.

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Soil Tester information

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$10

$38

$62

How much do soil tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for soil tester in the United States is $38.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $50.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kinds of environments do Soil Testers typically work in, and what can I expect from the daily work routine?

Soil Testers commonly split their time between fieldwork—where they collect soil samples in various outdoor settings such as farms, construction sites, or undeveloped land—and laboratory work, where they analyze those samples for nutrient content, contaminants, and other properties. Daily tasks often involve operating specialized equipment, recording data, and preparing detailed reports. You may frequently work both independently and with other environmental professionals, project managers, or agricultural staff, depending on the assignment. Expect varied workdays and occasional travel or time outdoors, making this a dynamic and engaging role for those who enjoy both lab science and field activities.

How much do soil samplers make?

Soil testers typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and certification level. Salaries can vary based on whether they work for government agencies, private companies, or as independent contractors, often requiring knowledge of sampling tools and testing procedures.

What is a Soil Tester job?

A Soil Tester analyzes soil samples to determine their composition, moisture content, and suitability for construction, agriculture, or environmental projects. They collect samples from various sites, perform tests in the field and lab, and document results to ensure compliance with industry standards. This information helps engineers, farmers, and environmental scientists make informed decisions about land use and foundation stability. Soil Testers often work for construction companies, government agencies, or environmental firms.

How do I become a soil tester?

To become a soil tester, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with knowledge of soil science, chemistry, or environmental science. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and obtaining relevant certifications, such as soil testing or environmental testing certifications, can improve job prospects. Familiarity with laboratory equipment and field sampling techniques is also beneficial.

How much money can you make as a soil scientist?

Soil scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $70,000, with experienced professionals or those in supervisory roles earning over $80,000. Salaries vary based on education, certifications, location, and industry sector, such as environmental consulting or government agencies.

How much does a soil testing technician make?

The average salary for a soil testing technician ranges from $35,000 to $55,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level technicians may earn less, while those with specialized skills or advanced certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries often increase with experience and additional responsibilities in environmental or agricultural settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Soil Tester position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Soil Tester, you need a background in environmental science, agriculture, or a related field, with strong analytical and attention-to-detail skills. Proficiency in using soil sampling equipment, laboratory analysis tools, and familiarity with basic industry certifications such as OSHA safety training are often required. Effective communication, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate data collection and interpretation, compliance with safety standards, and clear reporting for environmental and agricultural projects.

More about Soil Tester jobs
What cities are hiring for Soil Tester jobs? Cities with the most Soil Tester job openings:
What states have the most Soil Tester jobs? States with the most job openings for Soil Tester jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Soil Tester jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Soil Tester jobs are:
Infographic showing various Soil Tester job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,791 per year, or $38.4 per hour.
Soil Technician

Soil Technician

Actalent

Kirkland, WA

$24 - $30/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Soil Technician
Job Description

The Soil Technician supports construction projects in the Seattle area by performing field and laboratory testing of soils, concrete, and asphalt. This role focuses on operating a nuclear density gauge to verify soil compaction, preparing and testing construction materials, and documenting findings in clear, detailed reports. It is an excellent opportunity for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, applying knowledge of engineering, geology, or construction in a hands-on environment.

Responsibilities

  • Operate a nuclear density gauge to perform soil compaction testing on active construction sites.
  • Conduct soil testing and soil sampling in the field and prepare samples for analysis.
  • Perform testing of concrete and asphalt samples to support construction materials quality control.
  • Record, analyze, and interpret test results accurately to assess soil density and material performance.
  • Prepare clear, concise, and thorough written reports documenting field observations, test procedures, and results.
  • Follow established procedures and safety protocols when using a nuclear density gauge and other testing equipment.
  • Travel daily to construction sites in the Seattle area to perform field work as assigned.
  • Coordinate daily activities by meeting at the office in the morning, organizing equipment and vehicles, and returning at the end of the workday.
  • Support geotechnical and environmental field investigations by collecting, labeling, and handling soil and material samples properly.
  • Communicate effectively with project team members to ensure testing meets project specifications and schedules.
Essential Skills
  • Minimum of 1 year of geotechnical or environmental field experience.
  • Background in engineering, construction, geology, or a related field.
  • Ability to operate, or willingness to learn to operate, a nuclear density gauge for soil compaction testing.
  • Strong understanding of soil testing, soil sampling, and soil density analysis.
  • Experience with construction materials testing, including soils, concrete, and asphalt.
  • Proficiency in writing clear, accurate, and detailed technical reports.
  • Ability to work safely and effectively in field environments on active construction sites.
  • Nuclear Density Gauge certification completed prior to starting in the role.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
  • Education in engineering, geology, construction management, environmental science, or a closely related discipline.
  • Prior experience with nuclear density gauges in geotechnical or construction settings.
  • Familiarity with geotechnical and environmental field practices, including sampling and data collection.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow standardized testing procedures.
  • Effective communication skills for coordinating with project teams and documenting field activities.
  • Interest in developing a career in geotechnical, environmental, or construction materials testing.
Work Environment

The role is primarily field-based, supporting construction projects throughout the Seattle area. The workday typically begins at the office in Kirkland at 7:00 AM, where the team meets, prepares vehicles, and loads testing equipment before heading into the field. The day generally ends around 4:00 or 5:00 PM with the return of vehicles and equipment to the office. The Soil Technician works outdoors on active construction sites, performing hands-on testing of soils, concrete, and asphalt using a nuclear density gauge and other construction materials testing tools. The environment involves varied weather conditions, physical activity, and regular travel between the office and project locations. The organization offers a collaborative, small-firm setting that provides a broad range of environmental and geotechnical services, including geology, geophysics, groundwater, geotechnical engineering, and environmental assessments, creating opportunities for learning and professional growth.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Kirkland, WA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $24.00 - $30.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Kirkland,WA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 15, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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