Soil Scientist / Soil Surveyor / Soil Consultant

Job Title: Soil Scientist / Soil Surveyor / Soil Consultant
Operational Resource Group: SPE-CAS
Location: Cambridge (preferred) other locations in England may be considered
Start Date: Immediate
Contract Type: Open (duration dependent on skills and performance)

We are seeking a qualified and motivated Soil Scientist / Soil Surveyor / Soil Consultant to join our Environmental and Natural Capital (ENC) division under the SPE-CAS operational resource group. The successful candidate will support field-based soil investigations across England, with initial work focused on approximately 8 weeks of field surveying, and the potential for up to 12 weeks of additional work near Grantham later in the year.

If the candidate is engaged primarily for fieldwork, the position will be full-time during active survey periods. Opportunities for follow-up work and extended engagement may be discussed based on skills, availability, and project requirements.

• Conduct detailed field surveys to assess soil physical characteristics and properties.

• Apply hand texturing and soil profiling techniques to classify and describe soils accurately.

• Perform Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) and Soil Resource Surveys in accordance with current standards and best practice.

• Record, analyse, and interpret soil data to inform soil management and land-use decisions.

• Prepare technical reports and contribute to soil management plans for clients.

• Ensure fieldwork and reporting comply with health, safety, and environmental requirements.

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on environmental and agricultural projects.

• Degree in Soil Science, Environmental Science, Geography, Agriculture, or related discipline.

• Proven experience in field soil survey work (not limited to sampling).

• Strong understanding of soil physical properties and hand texturing methods.

• Experience conducting Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) and Soil Resource Surveys.

• Competent in recording soil profiles, mapping, and field data collection.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience writing clear, structured reports.

• Ability to work independently and manage workload efficiently.

• Proficiency in GIS mapping and data interpretation.

• Experience in soil management planning or agricultural consultancy.

• Knowledge of UK soil classification systems and environmental regulations.

• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel for fieldwork.

• Estimated 8 weeks of fieldwork, with potential extension up to 12 weeks near Grantham.

• Full-time commitment required during active survey weeks.

• Further utilisation for reporting and follow-up tasks may be discussed.

• Competitive daily or hourly rate, commensurate with experience.

• Opportunity for long-term or permanent employment based on performance.

• Supportive and collaborative team environment.

• Professional development and progression opportunities within the ENC division.