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Soil Testing Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lewis Services

Field Superintendent

Chicago, IL · On-site

Carmel Stabilization Group is a leader in soil stabilization and ground improvement services ... testing Safety & Compliance * Enforce all safety policies and OSHA regulations on job sites

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All JobsSoil Testing JobsSoil Testing Jobs in Chicago, IL

Soil Testing information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$37.1K

$45K

$72.2K

How much do soil testing jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for soil testing in Chicago, IL is $45,020.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,700.00 and $39,200.00 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 Chicago, IL? For Soil Testing jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Soil Testing jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Soil Testing jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Soil Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Soil Testing job openings in Chicago, IL 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 $45,020 per year, or $21.6 per hour.
GEOTECHNICAL FIELD ENGINEER SUPERVISOR - (CIVIL ENGINEER IV)

GEOTECHNICAL FIELD ENGINEER SUPERVISOR - (CIVIL ENGINEER IV)

State of Illinois

Schaumburg, IL • On-site

$6.2K - $9.7K/mo

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

State Of Illinois rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 50 rated states

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 57316 IPR#26-01444
Opening Date: 07/06/2026
Closing Date: 07/20/2026
Agency: Department of Transportation
Position Title: Civil Engineer IV
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary: $6,281 Monthly; Full Range: $6,281 - $9,792 Monthly
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time 
County: Cook
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code: NR916 Pro Tech Teamsters

 

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

Successful applicants for this position will be eligible to apply for participation in the Illinois Department of Transportation's Higher Education Student Loan Repayment Assistance for Engineers Pilot Program which provides an annual after-tax bonus of $15,000 per year, for not more than 4 years, for up to 50 engineers employed by the Department.

 

 

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

This position is accountable for planning, directing, and supervising geotechnical activities for subgrades, embankments, structural foundations, topsoil, and stabilized soil materials. This position also requires performing geotechnical field inspections. Additional duties include monitoring consultant activities, design plan reviews and sampling of materials to be tested in the district Materials Laboratory. 

Essential Functions
  • Minimizes construction delays through proper scheduling of soil testing and inspection.
  • Ensures appropriate solutions to embankment, subgrade, topsoil, and foundation problems to reduce possibility of soils failures.
  • Ensures effectiveness of the in-house testing and inspection program through proper assignments to subordinate staff.
  • Provides subordinate staff the training and instruction necessary to perform their tasks properly and safely.
  • Performs duties in compliance with departmental safety rules.  Performs all duties in a manner conducive to the fair and equitable treatment of all employees.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Current registration as a Licensed Professional Engineer in the state of Illinois OR current registration as a Licensed Structural Engineer in the state of Illinois.
  • Four years of experience in civil engineering.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge in soil mechanics and foundation engineering, including four years of supervisory responsibility of which three years should be in highway engineering functions.
  • Six years of experience in subgrade and embankment construction.
  • Strong communication skills and leadership ability.
  • Successful completion of Specific Task Training Program (STTP) S-33 Geotechnical Field Testing and Inspection Course.
  • Successful completion of STTP S-15 Earth Excavation and Embankment Course.
Conditions of Employment
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Overtime.
  • Districtwide travel and occasional night and weekend work.
  • Successful completion of a background screening.
  • Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during state employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (OEIG) or may be subject to a fine.
  • The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

About the Agency

The Illinois Department of Transportation is seeking to hire a Geotechnical Field Engineer Supervisor. 

The IDOT team works diligently to provide safe, cost-effective transportation for Illinois in ways that enhance quality of life, promote economic prosperity and protect our environment. We are problem solvers and leaders, constantly searching for innovations and improvements in support of our commitment to providing the best multimodal transportation system for Illinois. Our team fosters a culture of inclusivity. We value diversity and hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards as we work together for a common purpose. Team members frequently collaborate with colleagues and others outside the department to best meet customer needs. 

The department offers extensive training and career advancement opportunities. Employees also receive a robust benefit package including:

  • Monday-Friday work schedule
  • Flexible work schedules in several program areas (flexible time, hybrid scheduling)
  • Health, Life, Vision, and Dental Insurance
  • Pension Plan
  • (12) Weeks paid Maternity/Paternity Leave
  • Deferred Compensation Program and other pre-tax benefit programs (Medical/Daycare)
  • Employees earn (12) paid Sick Days annually
  • New Employees earn (10) paid Vacation Days their first year of service and can earn up to (25) paid Vacation Days annually
  • Employees earn (3) paid Personal Days annually
  • (13-14) paid holidays annually (based on start date)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program and/or mental health resources

We invite qualified applicants to apply to become part of our team. We are confident that you will take pride in serving Illinois and its residents and visitors.

Work Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:15 PM Monday - Friday (45-minute lunch)
Work Location: 201 Center Ct, Schaumburg, Illinois, 60196

Work Office: Office of Highways and Intermodal Project Implementation, Region 1/District 1/Bureau of Materials 

Agency Contact: DOT.CONTACTHR@ILLINOIS.GOV

Posting Group: Transportation; Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this

position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during State

employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior

to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector

General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor ("OEIG") or may be subject to a fine.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the "Apply" button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.

If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so. 

State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees - a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 

Non-State employees should log in on the using the "View Profile" link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.

If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:

State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid

Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com - click "Application Procedures" in the footer of every page of the website.

Seasonal and temporary workers should use a personal e-mail address when applying for jobs.

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your "junk mail", "spam", or "other" folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

Pay

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Hours and flexibility

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Get the full story on Breakroom

State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

Social media

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