Soil Laboratory Technician

Position Title

Soil Laboratory Technician / Soil Analyst

Location

Soil Testing Laboratory

Reporting To

Lab In-Charge / Project Manager / Senior Soil Scientist

Key Responsibilities

Sample Handling & Preparation

• Receive, log, label, and register soil samples as per standard protocol
• Air-dry, crush, sieve, and homogenize soil samples for analysis
• Maintain sample traceability and chain-of-custody records

Soil Analysis & Testing

• Perform routine soil tests including:
• Soil pH, EC
• Organic Carbon
• Macro nutrients (N, P, K)
• Secondary nutrients (Ca, Mg, S)
• Micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B)
• Conduct texture analysis and bulk density (if required)
• Follow standard methods (ICAR / NABL / ISO / project SOPs)

Instrument Handling

• Operate and maintain laboratory instruments such as:
• Atomic Absorption Spectrometer
• UV-Vis Spectrophotometer
• pH & EC meters
• Flame photometer
• Spectrophotometer
• Kjeldahl digestion and distillation units
• Weighing balances, ovens, shakers
• Perform routine calibration and basic troubleshooting

Quality Control & Documentation

• Follow QA/QC procedures and maintain lab records
• Prepare test reports and data sheets accurately
• Maintain reagent preparation logs and chemical inventory
• Ensure compliance with safety and laboratory best practices

Lab Maintenance & Safety

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of lab workspace
• Ensure proper chemical storage and waste disposal
• Follow safety guidelines and use PPE during lab work

Coordination & Support

• Coordinate with field teams for sample receipt and clarification
• Support audits, inspections, and project-specific reporting
• Assist senior staff in method validation and new test setups

Qualifications

• B.Sc./M.Sc. in Soil Science / Agriculture / Chemistry / Environmental Science
• Diploma in Laboratory Technology (preferred for technician role)

Experience

• 1–5 years of experience in soil testing laboratory
• Freshers may be considered for junior roles with training

Skills & Competencies

• Knowledge of soil testing methods and standards
• Hands-on experience with lab instruments
• Good documentation and reporting skills
• Attention to detail and data accuracy
• Ability to handle multiple samples under timelines

Preferred (Optional)

• Experience with NABL-accredited labs
• Exposure to GIS / soil mapping projects
• Familiarity with government soil health card programs

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent, Fresher

Pay: From ₹20,000.00 per month

Work Location: In person