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Soil Testing Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Thompson Engineering

Senior CMT Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$89K - $123K/yr

Soil testing and earthwork evaluation * Concrete testing and quality assurance * Asphalt testing and pavement evaluations * Structural steel inspections * Masonry inspections * Deep foundation ...

Thompson Engineering

Senior CMT Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$89K - $123K/yr

Soil testing and earthwork evaluationConcrete testing and quality assuranceAsphalt testing and pavement evaluationsStructural steel inspectionsMasonry inspectionsDeep foundation testing and ...

Thompson Engineering

Senior CMT Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$105 - $145/hr

Soil testing and earthwork evaluation * Concrete testing and quality assurance * Asphalt testing and pavement evaluations * Structural steel inspections * Masonry inspections * Deep foundation ...

Thompson Engineering

Senior CMT Engineer

Knoxville, TN

$89K - $123K/yr

Soil testing and earthwork evaluation * Concrete testing and quality assurance * Asphalt testing and pavement evaluations * Structural steel inspections * Masonry inspections * Deep foundation ...

Thompson Engineering

Senior CMT Engineer

Knoxville, TN

$89K - $123K/yr

Soil testing and earthwork evaluation * Concrete testing and quality assurance * Asphalt testing and pavement evaluations * Structural steel inspections * Masonry inspections * Deep foundation ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsSoil Testing JobsSoil Testing Jobs in Tennessee

Soil Testing information

See Tennessee salary details

$32.7K

$39.6K

$63.5K

How much do soil testing jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for soil testing in Tennessee is $39,635.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $34,500.00 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 do you 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 on-the-job training is common, and some positions may require certification or specialized training in soil analysis or laboratory techniques.
What are popular job titles related to Soil Testing jobs in Tennessee? For Soil Testing jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Soil Testing jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Soil Testing jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Soil Testing jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Soil Testing job openings:
Soil Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Soil Testing job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,635 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Senior CMT Engineer

Thompson Engineering

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$89K - $123K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Position Overview
-------------------------------------------------------
Thompson Engineering is seeking a Senior Engineer - Construction Materials Testing (CMT) to join our Construction Materials Testing and Inspection Team as a seller-doer. This position is ideal for an experienced Professional Engineer who combines technical expertise in construction materials testing, special inspections, and quality assurance with a proven ability to develop client relationships, generate new business, and lead project execution.
The Senior CMT Engineer will be responsible for growing Thompson Engineering's Construction Materials Testing practice by cultivating relationships with contractors, developers, architects, engineers, and public agencies while providing technical leadership for complex projects. This role will oversee engineering evaluations, testing programs, quality assurance services, project management, and staff development while ensuring exceptional client service and the successful delivery of projects throughout the Southeast.
Key Responsibilities
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  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with contractors, developers, architects, engineers, municipalities, and government agencies to identify and secure new business opportunities.
  • Lead business development initiatives including client meetings, networking, proposal preparation, presentations, contract negotiations, and strategic planning.
  • Identify opportunities to expand existing client relationships through Thompson Engineering's multidisciplinary services.
  • Manage Construction Materials Testing and Special Inspection projects from proposal through project closeout, ensuring quality, profitability, schedule, and client satisfaction.
  • Provide engineering oversight for construction materials testing programs including:
    • Soil testing and earthwork evaluation
    • Concrete testing and quality assurance
    • Asphalt testing and pavement evaluations
    • Structural steel inspections
    • Masonry inspections
    • Deep foundation testing and observation
    • Special inspections in accordance with applicable building codes
  • Review laboratory and field testing data and provide engineering interpretations and recommendations.
  • Prepare engineering reports, technical memorandums, specifications, proposals, and construction recommendations.
  • Serve as Engineer of Record when required and provide engineering judgment regarding material acceptance and construction compliance.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentoring to engineers, project managers, inspectors, technicians, and laboratory personnel.
  • Monitor project budgets, schedules, staffing, and resource allocation to ensure successful project execution.
  • Ensure compliance with ASTM, AASHTO, ACI, ICC, DOT, and other applicable industry standards and specifications.
  • Collaborate with geotechnical, structural, civil, environmental, and transportation engineering teams to provide integrated project solutions.
  • Support strategic growth initiatives by expanding Thompson Engineering's CMT services throughout existing and emerging markets.
  • Maintain a high standard of quality assurance, safety, and client service across all assigned projects.

Education
-------------------------------------------------------
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or other applicable engineering program

Experience
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  • Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in Construction Materials Testing, Special Inspections, and Quality Assurance.
  • Demonstrated success in business development, client relationship management, and project management.
  • Experience serving energy, commercial, industrial, transportation, municipal, and infrastructure markets preferred.

Licensure
-------------------------------------------------------
  • Current Professional Engineer (PE) license required.

Proficient in
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  • Construction Materials Testing and Quality Assurance
  • Geotechnical and construction engineering principles
  • ASTM, AASHTO, ACI, ICC, and DOT testing standards
  • Construction observation and special inspections
  • Laboratory and field testing procedures
  • Proposal development and project budgeting
  • Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Construction project management software preferred

Preferred certifications include one or more of the following
-------------------------------------------------------
  • ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician - Grade I
  • ICC Special Inspector certifications
  • NICET certifications
  • Other applicable construction materials testing certifications

Physical Requirements
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  • Ability to visit active construction sites and industrial facilities.
  • Ability to walk over uneven terrain and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to sit and operate a computer for extended periods.
  • Ability to work flexible schedules, including occasional overtime.

About Thompson Engineering
Founded in 1953, Thompson Engineering provides quality assurance and professional services for construction projects supporting industrial, infrastructure, and community development. Our services include drilling, materials testing, construction inspection, chemistry laboratory services, engineering design, environmental assessments, surveying, geotechnical studies, and construction management.
Today, Thompson Engineering is recognized for leadership on projects that define skylines, coastlines, and transportation networks across the Southeast. From project planning and design through construction and completion, we deliver innovative solutions to complex infrastructure and building challenges for industrial, commercial, transportation, federal, and municipal clients.
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Pre-employment drug screen and motor vehicle record checks are required.

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