Senior Soil Scientist - Land Reclamation and Management

Placements24; Queenstown (MD); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development allowance

Job summary

Placements24 is representing a prominent environmental consulting firm seeking a Senior Soil Scientist to lead land reclamation, soil remediation, and sustainable land management projects. This remote-first role allows for flexible work arrangements with occasional site visits.

You will conduct soil surveys, develop remediation plans, oversee implementation, and mentor junior staff. A PhD or MS in a related field with 8+ years of experience and GIS soil modeling expertise is required.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Soil Science, Environmental Science, Agronomy, or related field.
• 8+ years of professional experience in soil science, with focus on land reclamation, remediation, or soil conservation.
• In-depth knowledge of soil physics, chemistry, biology and interactions.
• Experience in designing and implementing soil remediation projects.
• Proficiency in soil sampling techniques, lab analysis interpretation, and field assessment methods.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, with report writing and client presentation experience.
• Proficiency in GIS and other relevant modeling software.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive soil surveys, sampling, and analysis to characterize soil properties and identify contamination.
• Develop soil remediation and reclamation plans for degraded or contaminated sites.
• Oversee implementation of soil management strategies including amendments and erosion control.
• Assess impact of agriculture, mining, and industry on soil health.
• Provide expert advice on soil conservation and nutrient management.

Skills

Soil physics

Soil chemistry

Soil biology

Analytical thinking

Project management

Technical writing

Remote work capability

Communication skills

Education

PhD or Master's in Soil Science / Environmental Science / Agronomy

Tools

GIS

Soil modeling software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent environmental consulting firm, is seeking a Senior Soil Scientist to lead projects focused on land reclamation, soil remediation, and sustainable land management. This role requires extensive expertise in soil physics, chemistry, and biology, with a strong emphasis on practical application in diverse environments. You will be responsible for conducting detailed site assessments, developing remediation strategies, and overseeing the implementation of soil health improvement plans. The position is primarily remote, allowing for flexibility while requiring occasional site visits. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of soil processes and a proven ability to address complex environmental challenges related to land degradation and rehabilitation.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive soil surveys, sampling, and analysis to characterize soil properties and identify contamination.
• Develop detailed soil remediation and reclamation plans for degraded or contaminated sites.
• Oversee the implementation of soil management strategies, including amendments, fertilization, and erosion control.
• Assess the impact of agricultural practices, mining, and industrial activities on soil health.
• Provide expert advice on soil conservation, nutrient management, and water quality protection.
• Utilize advanced soil modeling and GIS tools for spatial analysis and site characterization.
• Prepare technical reports, proposals, and scientific publications.
• Liaise with clients, regulatory agencies, and project stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of the latest research and technologies in soil science and environmental management.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to the technical development of the team.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Soil Science, Environmental Science, Agronomy, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in soil science, with a focus on land reclamation, remediation, or soil conservation.
• In-depth knowledge of soil physics, chemistry, biology, and their interactions.
• Proven experience in designing and implementing soil remediation projects.
• Proficiency in soil sampling techniques, laboratory analysis interpretation, and field assessment methods.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience in report writing and client presentation.
• Proficiency in GIS and other relevant modeling software.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a remote setting.
• Willingness to undertake occasional travel to project sites across Eastern Cape and beyond.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with expertise and experience, along with performance-based bonuses.
• This remote-first role provides significant flexibility in managing your work schedule.
• You will have the opportunity to lead impactful environmental projects and contribute to sustainable land management practices.
• Benefits include comprehensive health insurance, a retirement savings plan, and a professional development allowance for courses and conferences.
• Join an innovative environmental consultancy committed to making a positive difference in land stewardship.
• Occasional travel expenses for site visits are fully covered.