1

Soil Tester Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Licensed Soil Scientist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$70K - $82K/yr

Strong knowledge of soil properties, soil classification, testing methods, environmental regulations, and field documentation practices. * Ability to read and interpret technical literature ...

Strong knowledge of soil properties, soil classification, testing methods, environmental regulations, and field documentation practices. * Ability to read and interpret technical literature ...

Licensed Soil Scientist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$70K - $82K/yr

Strong knowledge of soil properties, soil classification, testing methods, environmental regulations, and field documentation practices. * Ability to read and interpret technical literature ...

Conduct soil sampling and asphalt testing, including work aligned with VDOT Asphalt 1 and 2 inspection requirements where applicable. * Complete and submit detailed daily reports that accurately ...

Set up, operate, and break down geotechnical experiments (triaxial, direct shear, resilient modulus, erosion testing, permeability, etc.) * Prepare, mix, and fabricate soil specimens using sands ...

Posted today

next page

Showing results 1-20

Soil Tester information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$38

$62

How much do soil tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for soil tester in Virginia is $38.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.20 and $50.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a soil tester?

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.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a soil tester, 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.

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 or related fields. Many positions require training in soil sampling techniques and the use of testing equipment, and some employers prefer candidates with a degree in agriculture, environmental science, or a similar discipline.

What job categories do people searching Soil Tester jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Soil Tester jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Soil Tester job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,107 per year, or $38 per hour.

Licensed Soil Scientist

Timmons Group

Richmond, VA • On-site

$70K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Timmons Group rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Company Description
Job Description
Timmons Group is seeking a knowledgeable and experienced Licensed Soil Scientist for our Environmental Group located in our Richmond, VA office. The Licensed Soil Scientist will support a variety of environmental, land development, and natural resources projects by evaluating site and soil conditions, conducting field investigations, preparing technical documentation, and providing practical recommendations that help project teams and clients meet regulatory, design, and permitting requirements. This individual must be highly motivated, detail-oriented, comfortable working in both field and office settings, and able to collaborate with engineers, planners, environmental scientists, project managers, regulatory agencies, and clients in a dynamic consulting environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Perform field investigations, soil evaluations, soil classification, and site assessments in support of environmental, natural resources, and land development projects.
  • Prepare technically sound reports, field notes, exhibits, and documentation that meet internal quality standards, client expectations, and applicable regulatory requirements.
  • Collaborate with Timmons Group engineers, planners, surveyors, GIS professionals, environmental scientists, and project managers to provide soil-related recommendations throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies as needed regarding soil conditions, environmental constraints, permitting considerations, and compliance requirements.
  • Support preparation of soil management recommendations, environmental assessments, remediation strategies, and permitting-related materials.
  • Conduct fieldwork in a variety of outdoor conditions and terrain, including soil sampling, site reconnaissance, and documentation of existing site conditions.
  • Communicate findings and recommendations clearly to project teams, clients, and stakeholders while supporting timely delivery of high-quality work products.

Skills/Requirements of a successful candidate include but are not limited to:
  • Current registration as a Licensed Soil Scientist, Professional Soil Scientist, or ability to obtain licensure in Virginia preferred.
  • Bachelor's degree in Soil Science, Environmental Science, Geology, Natural Resources, or a closely related field.
  • Minimum of 4 years of experience performing soil evaluations, field investigations, environmental assessments, or related natural resources consulting work preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of soil properties, soil classification, testing methods, environmental regulations, and field documentation practices.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical literature, environmental guidance documents, engineering plans, and regulatory requirements.
  • Strong technical writing, verbal communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary project team while managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
  • Must be willing and able to perform field tasks in various weather conditions and terrain; regional travel may be required.

Compensation: Our best estimate of the salary range for this position is $70,000-$82,000. Offers are based on a range of job-related factors such as internal equity, experience, skills, education, credentials and role complexity.
Qualifications
Additional Information
The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
We are looking for high energy, creative, flexible, patient, self-starters who are willing to work at a dynamic pace. Candidates must share a commitment to our company's Vision, Mission and Shared Values.
Timmons Group is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.
Timmons Group is a full-service engineering and technology firm recognized nationally as a "Best Firm to Work For" by CE News. With 21 offices throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, we provide civil engineering, environmental, economic development, GIS/geospatial technology, landscape architecture, and surveying services to a diverse client base. As one of Engineering News Record's (ENR) Top 500 Design Firms for over 30 years, we are dedicated to being an employer of choice and providing our people with the best resources, technology, and culture to help them thrive in an engaging career development setting. For more information, visit www.timmons.com.
#LI-KH1

What Timmons Group employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom