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Soil Testing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Tech

Soil Analyst

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

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 ...

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Soil Testing information

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$35.7K

$43.3K

$69.4K

How much do soil testing jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for soil testing in Virginia is $43,295.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,200.00 and $37,700.00 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.

How much money does a soil scientist make?

A soil scientist's average salary in the United States ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Professionals in this field often work for government agencies, environmental consulting firms, or research institutions and may require specialized certifications or advanced degrees.

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

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 Virginia? For Soil Testing jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Soil Testing jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Soil Testing jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Soil Testing jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Soil Testing job openings:
Soil Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Soil Testing job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,295 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Soil Analyst

Soil Analyst

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 25 days ago

Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

195th of 546 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Soil Analyst

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536715
Work type: Staff
Senior management: Agriculture & Life Sciences
Department: School of Plant & Environmental Sci
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Agriculture / Life Science

Job Description

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 educate farmers, agribusiness personnel and homeowners about the efficient, economical and environmental use of our fertilizer and soil resources. Responsible for sample preparation by unpacking, setting up, drying, grinding and sieving samples. Perform chemical extraction of soil samples for nutrient analysis. Operate ICPAES instrument for elemental analysis on soil sample extracts. Monitor analytical quality of ICP data, upload data files. Assist ICP Spectroscopist with research solution samples as directed by the Lab Manager.Follow University funds handling protocol and lab procedures to receive payments for lab work, write receipts; log and tally checks and cash for daily direct bank deposit, verifying total amount. Independently organize and carry out the invoicing to external clients. Itemize dollar amounts to be billed to companies for soil tests performed on credit, Process corrections using A/R adjustment forms; process Interdepartmental Service Requests. Perform repetitive tasks in a timely manner with accuracy. Department is unable to support work visas.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or equivalent training and experience; Demonstrated knowledge and work experience with general laboratory equipment, computers, reagents, procedures and analytical techniques; Ability to perform rapid, accurate, reproducible work with occasional interruptions while following complex instructions; Experience providing excellent customer service; Data entry experience entering information quickly and accurately; Experience in independently performing basic troubleshooting steps to identify and solve fundamental issues; Ability to repeatedly lift & carry up to 30 lbs over short distances & above head level, climb stairs several times per day, work in environments using appropriate protective gear for high levels of soil dust and noise, strong acids & odors, and adjacent to radio frequency electrical generators.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in the sciences; Experience with soil pH, atomic spectroscopy (especially ICP-AES); Experience with data entry, funds handling and with MS Windows, Word, and Excel

Pay Band

4

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

40,000-55,000

Hours per week

40

Review Date

07/03/2026

Additional Information

Must be able to repeatedly lift & carry up to 30 lbs. over short distances & above head level, and to climb a flight of stairs several times per day, and to work in environments of high soil dust, high noise, with strong acids & odors, and adjacent to radio frequency electrical generators. Work schedule M-F, 7:30-4:00 with 1/2 hour for lunch

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Courtney McCombs at cdundas@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: June 15, 2026
Applications close:

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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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