Soil Scientist

Company Description

We are Olsson, a team-based, purpose-driven engineering and design firm. Our solutions improve communities and our people make it possible.

Our most meaningful asset is our people, and we are dedicated to providing an environment where they can continue to learn, grow, and thrive. Our entrepreneurial spirit is what has allowed us — and will continue to allow us — to grow. The result? Inspired people, amazing designs, and projects with purpose.

Job Description

Olsson's Utility Environmental Sciences team, where innovation meets sustainability in the energy sector. Our diverse team, comprising experts in various environmental sciences, focuses on providing environmentally sound and economically viable solutions. We excel in navigating complex regulatory landscapes, ensuring compliance with major environmental acts and policies. Our work spans environmental engineering, planning, and permitting, delivering win-win solutions for clients, communities, and the environment.

As a Soil Scientist within Olsson's Utility Environmental Sciences team, you will apply specialized knowledge of soil science to address environmental challenges in both natural and disturbed landscapes. This role involves evaluating existing soils for their physical, chemical, biological, and topographical conditions to contribute to landscape restoration and land use determinations.

Key responsibilities include

Conducting detailed field surveys to assess soil condition, including texture, structure, and plant growth potential, which will inform restoration and improvement methods.Collecting soil samples for comprehensive chemical, physical, and biological testing and analyzing field data to understand the interrelationships between soil conditions.Designing soil specifications for landscape architecture projects and overseeing soil restoration efforts at project sites.Participating in biological studies and natural resource surveys, managing small to medium-sized projects, and coordinating with clients and team members.Developing site conceptual models for contaminated site remediation, interpreting laboratory data, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.Writing technical documentation and reports to a high standard.

We have one current opening and will consider candidates interested in being located out of our Omaha, Lincoln, Des Moines, or Kansas City office locations.

Qualifications

You are passionate about

Working collaboratively with others.Having ownership in the work you do.Using your talents to positively affect communities.

You bring to the team

Strong communication skills.Ability to contribute and work well with a team.Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills.Bachelor’s degree in Soil Science, Geology, or Environmental Science, with substantial coursework in soil science.4+ years of experience or advanced degree in environmental sciences.Strong background in field surveys, soil sample analysis, and landscape development.Demonstrated technical writing skills; samples may be requested.Proficiency in using field sampling equipment, GPS, ArcGIS software, and Munsell charts.Knowledge of soil chemistry processes, soil drainage, compaction, and conditions optimal for plant growth.

Additional Information

Olsson is a nationally recognized, employee-owned firm specializing in planning and design, engineering, field services, environmental, and technology. Founded in 1956 on the very mindset that drives us today, we’re here to improve communities by making them more sustainable, better connected, and more efficient. Simply put, we work to leave the world better than we found it.

As an Olsson employee, you’ll receive our traditional benefits package (health care, vision, dental, paid time off, etc.), plus you’ll:

Become an owner in the company after your first year through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).Engage in work that has a positive impact in communities.Receive an excellent 401(k) match.Participate in a wellness program promoting balanced lifestyles.Benefit from a bonus system that rewards performance.Have the possibility for flexible work arrangements.

Olsson is an EEO employer. We encourage qualified minority, female, veteran and disabled candidates to apply and be considered for open positions. We do not discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee because of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender, disability, age, or military status.