Soil Science
Positions involving professional work in soil science including surveys, classification, and land use planning.
š°GS-0470 Salary Information
2025 Base Pay (before locality adjustment)
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7 | Step 8 | Step 9 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
| GS-9 | $52,205 | $53,945 | $55,685 | $57,425 | $59,165 | $60,905 | $62,645 | $64,385 | $66,125 | $67,865 |
| GS-11 | $63,163 | $65,268 | $67,373 | $69,478 | $71,583 | $73,688 | $75,793 | $77,898 | $80,003 | $82,108 |
| GS-12 | $75,706 | $78,229 | $80,752 | $83,275 | $85,798 | $88,321 | $90,844 | $93,367 | $95,890 | $98,422 |
| GS-13 | $90,025 | $93,026 | $96,027 | $99,028 | $102,029 | $105,030 | $108,031 | $111,032 | $114,033 | $117,034 |
| GS-14 | $106,382 | $109,928 | $113,474 | $117,020 | $120,566 | $124,112 | $127,658 | $131,204 | $134,750 | $138,296 |
| GS-15 | $125,133 | $129,304 | $133,475 | $137,646 | $141,817 | $145,988 | $150,159 | $154,330 | $158,501 | $162,672 |
Note: These are 2025 base pay rates. Most federal employees receive locality pay adjustments of 15-40%+ depending on location.
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0470
Degree: soil science or a closely related discipline that included 30 semester hours or equivalent in biological, physical, or earth science, with a minimum of 15 semester hours in such subjects as soil genesis, pedology, soil chemistry, soil physics, and soil fertility.
or
ā¢ Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in soil science or a related discipline that included at least 30 semester hours in the biological, physical, or earth sciences. At least 15 of these semester hours must have been in the areas specified in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
šļøTips for Veterans
- āTranslate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- āHighlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- āVeterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- āExperience substitution: Military experience may substitute for education.
šHow to Qualify for GS-0470
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal soil science position
- 1
Review Qualification Requirements
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
- 2
Determine Your Grade Level
Match your years of experience and education to the appropriate GS grade. Generally: GS-5 (entry), GS-7/9 (junior), GS-11/12 (journey), GS-13+ (senior).
- 3
Gather Documentation
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
- 4
Build Your Federal Resume
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
- 5
Apply on USAJOBS
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
šTypical Duties
- ā¢Conduct soil surveys
- ā¢Classify soils
- ā¢Analyze soil samples
- ā¢Develop soil maps
- ā¢Assess land capabilities
- ā¢Provide technical advice
- ā¢Support conservation planning
- ā¢Interpret soil data
- ā¢Prepare reports
- ā¢Coordinate with agencies
šÆKey Competencies
Knowledge of soil properties and classification.
Skill in conducting soil surveys.
Proficiency in soil testing methods.
Ability to interpret soil data for applications.
Proficiency with mapping technologies.
Ability to prepare soil survey reports.
šResume Keywords
š” Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
āFrequently Asked Questions about GS-0470
What is a federal Soil Scientist?
GS-0470 Soil Scientists conduct professional work in soil survey, classification, and land use planning. They map soils, analyze samples, assess land capabilities, and provide technical advice for agriculture, construction, and conservation. They work primarily for NRCS, Forest Service, and BLM.
How much does a federal Soil Scientist make?
GS-0470 positions follow a two-grade interval: GS-5/7/9/11/12+. Entry at GS-5 ($34,454), journeyman at GS-9/11 ($52,205-$82,108), senior scientists at GS-12/13 ($75,706-$117,034). State Soil Scientists and regional leads reach GS-13/14. Add locality pay.
What are the requirements for GS-0470 positions?
A degree in soil science, agronomy, or related field with courses in soil genesis, chemistry, and physics is required. Experience in soil mapping, classification, and laboratory analysis is essential for higher grades. GIS and remote sensing skills are increasingly important.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0470?
Partially. A degree in soil science or related field is necessary, but military experience in construction, engineering surveys, or environmental work provides relevant background. Veterans with agriculture or environmental science degrees who served in related roles are well-positioned.
What is the career progression for Soil Scientists?
Entry at GS-5/7, journeyman at GS-9/11, and senior scientists at GS-12. State Soil Scientists reach GS-13/14. NRCS offers the most soil science positions. Specializing in wetland delineation, construction assessment, or GIS mapping enhances advancement opportunities.
How do I apply for GS-0470 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Soil Scientist' or 'Soil Conservationist.' Primary employers are NRCS, Forest Service, and BLM. Positions are nationwide but concentrated in agricultural and public lands states. Emphasize your soil survey experience and technical skills. Veterans preference applies.
Ready to Apply for GS-0470?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.