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Soil Testing Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

ERM

Environmental Inspectors (Field Based)

Nevada, IA

$33.89 - $46.84/hr

Conducting environmental sampling (hydrostatic test water, soil, etc.). * Overseeing and verifying ... Evaluating restoration activities and conducting compaction testing as required. * Compliance with ...

Ryan Companies

Field Site Specialist

Des Moines, IA

... testing agency. * Conduct proactive assessments of site conditions, soil stability, and erosion patterns, recommending adjustments to work methods as needed. * Manage and support stormwater ...

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All JobsSoil Testing JobsSoil Testing Jobs in Iowa

Soil Testing information

See Iowa salary details

$33.8K

$41K

$65.7K

How much do soil testing jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for soil testing in Iowa is $41,017.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,200.00 and $35,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Soil Testing vs Soil Laboratory Technician?

AspectSoil TestingSoil Laboratory Technician
CertificationsOften requires soil testing certifications or related environmental certificationsRequires laboratory technician certifications, such as OSHA or specific lab certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, outdoor testing sites, construction sitesLaboratory setting, analyzing soil samples in a controlled environment
Job FocusCollecting soil samples, performing tests on-site or in labs, interpreting resultsPreparing, analyzing, and testing soil samples in a lab, ensuring accuracy and quality control
Employer & IndustryConstruction, agriculture, environmental consultingEnvironmental labs, research institutions, agricultural testing labs

While both roles involve working with soil samples, Soil Testing typically emphasizes fieldwork and on-site testing, whereas Soil Laboratory Technicians focus on laboratory analysis and sample preparation. Both roles require relevant certifications and are essential in environmental and agricultural industries.

What are some common challenges faced by soil testing technicians, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Soil testing technicians often work outdoors in varying weather conditions, which can make field sampling physically demanding. Additionally, ensuring the accuracy of samples and avoiding contamination is critical, requiring attention to detail and adherence to strict protocols. Time management is important, as technicians may need to coordinate with agronomists, engineers, or farmers to meet project deadlines. Building strong communication skills and staying updated on the latest testing methods can help overcome these challenges and improve job performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Soil Testing Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Soil Testing Technician, you typically need a background in soil science, environmental science, or a related field, along with strong analytical and laboratory skills. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, soil sampling techniques, and data management software—plus certifications like OSHA HAZWOPER—are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication skills help you interpret results and convey findings to clients or team members. These skills ensure accurate testing, regulatory compliance, and informed decision-making in agricultural, environmental, or construction projects.

What is soil testing and why is it important?

Soil testing is the process of analyzing soil samples to determine their nutrient content, composition, and other characteristics such as pH and contamination levels. This information is essential for farmers, gardeners, and landscapers to make informed decisions about fertilization, crop selection, and soil management. By understanding the soil's condition, users can optimize plant growth, improve yields, and prevent environmental issues caused by over-fertilization or improper land use.

How much do soil samplers make?

Soil samplers typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and whether they work for government agencies or private firms. Salaries can also vary based on certifications, equipment knowledge, and the complexity of sampling tasks.

How do I become a soil tester?

To become a soil tester, you typically 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 those in soil analysis or environmental testing, can improve job prospects. Familiarity with laboratory equipment and field sampling techniques is also beneficial.

What are people who test soil called?

People who test soil are called soil testers or soil analysts. They often work as soil scientists, agronomists, or environmental technicians, using tools like soil probes and laboratory equipment to assess soil quality and composition. Certification or training in soil analysis may be required depending on the job setting.

How much does a soil testing technician make?

A soil testing technician typically earns between $35,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They often work in laboratories or field environments, using specialized testing equipment to analyze soil samples. Salaries can vary based on industry demand and level of expertise.
What are popular job titles related to Soil Testing jobs in Iowa? For Soil Testing jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Soil Testing jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Soil Testing jobs in Iowa are:
Soil Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Soil Testing job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,017 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Crop Specialist - AgVantage FS - Ackley, IA

Legacy Farmers Cooperative

Cumming, IA • On-site

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

AgVantage FS is headquartered in Waverly, Iowa with branches in Northern and Eastern Iowa. AgVantage FS has about 400 employees (including seasonal workers) and approximately 23,000 customers. The cooperative does business in agronomy, energy, precision agronomy, and agri-finance. AgVantage FS is part of the GROWMARK System, an agricultural cooperative serving more than 100,000 customers across North America and Ontario, Canada.

PURPOSE AND SUMMARY STATEMENT

 

Assumes responsibility for developing customers through effective marketing of the following products and services: crops inputs, such as fertilizer, crop protection pesticides, seed products, service income, technical services, and ag-finance program to maximize profitable sales.

 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

 

Implements marketing plans and develops sales strategies that generate profitable sales in the assigned territory.

Utilizes target marketing and professional sales techniques, including the FS sales interview road map, cropping programs, emphasis of appropriate features and benefits, and contact management system when calling on patrons and prospects.

Develops territory and competitive analysis to maintain a current knowledge of the marketplace and the competition.

Provides value-added agronomic products, services, and recommendations to patrons and prospects.  Schedules product delivery and application to patron locations.  Conducts regular patron meetings on product and technical information. 

Provides customer service by using soil testing, crop scouting and other programs, follows up on customer complaints, and seeks a reasonable "win/win" resolution.

Ensures the credit worthiness of customers, quotes prices and credit terms, and prepares sales contracts for orders obtained.  Promotes the use of credit programs as a sales tool and helps provide the required information to establish credit.

 

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS

Responsible for maintaining the assigned vehicle according to company standards, adheres to the uniform policy, and maintains the appropriate professional image.

Ensures field signs are displayed on all customers' fields to promote FS products

Responsible for completing and updating profile information sheets on all key accounts and targeted prospects.

Collects for sales of all assigned products according to company credit policy.

Attains and maintains technical and sales skills to certification standards.

Performs all other duties as assigned.

 

REQUIREMENTS

Normally requires a minimum of an Associate's Degree in agriculture, marketing, or business, or the equivalent thereof, and 2 years or more of related work experience to demonstrate knowledge of production agriculture.

Ability to obtain and maintain the appropriate driver's license and satisfactory driving record for the type of vehicle that will be required to operate in order to perform all the duties assigned prior to employment. Daily independent travel within the trade area with occasional over-night stays.

Must be able to obtain and maintain applicable professional certifications associated with the agronomy industry. (i.e. CCA, CCS, CPAg, Commercial Applicator w/applicable categories)

Ability and willingness to work extended hours during peak seasons.

Occasionally exposed or required to: 

  • Extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, wet, etc.)
  • Noisy conditions
  • Working conditions may include dust, fumes, chemicals, and electrical hazards with appropriate safety measures
  • May be required to work at varying heights
  • Lift 51-75 lbs.
We are an equal opportunity/Disabled/Protected Veteran Employer. All individuals, regardless of demographic or other background, are encouraged to apply. Further, as a federal, state, and local contractor, we comply with government regulations and executive orders as applicable, including affirmative action responsibilities for qualified individuals with disability and protected veterans.
Employment is contingent on, among other things, receipt of an acceptable and job-related background check, drug test, motor vehicle report, and/or reference check, as applicable and permissible by law.

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