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Soil Testing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Timmons Group

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 ...

Timmons Group, Inc.

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 ...

Timmons Group

Licensed Soil Scientist

Richmond, VA · On-site

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

Actalent

Field Technician

Sterling, VA

$20 - $22/hr

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 ...

Actalent

Field Technician

Winchester, VA

$20 - $22/hr

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 ...

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All JobsSoil Testing JobsSoil Testing Jobs in Virginia

Soil Testing information

See Virginia salary details

$35.7K

$43.3K

$69.4K

How much do soil testing jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 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.

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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,295 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Licensed Soil Scientist

Timmons Group

Richmond, VA • On-site

$70K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Timmons Group rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 441 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.
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