1

Assistant Geologist Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Geotechnical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$140K - $203K/yr

Support evaluation of ground condition deviations relative to baselines and assist with technical input to change management and claims support. * Coordinate geological inputs with geotechnical ...

Geotechnical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$140K - $203K/yr

Support evaluation of ground condition deviations relative to baselines and assist with technical input to change management and claims support. * Coordinate geological inputs with geotechnical ...

Provide coaching and guidance to junior engineers and project managers. * Assist with business ... Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or Professional Geologist (PG) required; if not currently ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Assistant Geologist information

See Washington salary details

$40.8K

$87.2K

$141K

How much do assistant geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant geologist in Washington is $87,244.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,400.00 and $105,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry-level geologist do?

An entry-level geologist assists with fieldwork, collecting samples and data, and supports analysis of geological formations. They often use tools like maps, GPS devices, and software to document findings and may perform laboratory tests under supervision to gain experience in interpreting geological data.

What are Assistant Geologists?

Assistant Geologists are entry-level professionals who support geologists in studying the Earth’s structure, composition, and processes. Their duties typically include collecting and analyzing soil, rock, and water samples, conducting field surveys, and assisting with geological mapping. They work under the supervision of senior geologists in industries such as environmental consulting, mining, oil and gas, and government agencies. This role provides valuable hands-on experience and is often a stepping stone to more advanced geoscience positions.

What are the typical responsibilities of an Assistant Geologist in a fieldwork setting?

As an Assistant Geologist, you will often support senior geologists during field investigations, which may include collecting soil and rock samples, conducting site surveys, and recording geologic observations. You may also assist in geophysical or geochemical testing and help with mapping and data analysis back in the office. Fieldwork can be physically demanding and often requires travel to remote locations, but it provides valuable hands-on experience and exposure to a variety of geological projects. Team collaboration is common, as you’ll frequently work with environmental scientists, engineers, and drilling crews to ensure data accuracy and project success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Geologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Geologist, you need a solid background in geology or earth sciences, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and foundational fieldwork experience. Familiarity with GIS software, mapping tools, and data analysis platforms is important, and certifications like OSHA HAZWOPER may be required for field safety. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collecting and reporting accurate geological data. These skills ensure reliable data collection, adherence to safety standards, and successful collaboration on geological projects.

What is the difference between Assistant Geologist vs Geoscientist?

AspectAssistant GeologistGeoscientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in geology or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in geology, geoscience, or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, lab analysis, data collectionResearch, data analysis, fieldwork, report writing
Employer & Industry UsageMining, environmental consulting, oil & gasResearch institutions, government agencies, energy companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Assistant Geologists typically perform fieldwork and basic data collection under supervision, while Geoscientists often engage in research, complex data analysis, and report writing. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but Geoscientists usually hold advanced degrees and work in broader research or policy settings. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in geology-related fields.

What is the role of a geological assistant?

A geological assistant supports geologists by collecting and analyzing rock, soil, and mineral samples, preparing reports, and maintaining field equipment. They often assist with fieldwork, data entry, and laboratory tasks, requiring knowledge of geological tools and safety procedures.

Is there a high demand for geologists?

The demand for geologists, including assistant geologists, is generally steady due to ongoing needs in natural resource exploration, environmental assessment, and hazard analysis. Employment opportunities tend to be influenced by the mining, oil and gas, and environmental sectors, with a requirement for strong fieldwork skills and relevant certifications. Overall, job prospects are favorable for those with specialized knowledge and experience in geology.

Is a BA in geology worth it?

A BA in geology can be valuable for an assistant geologist role, providing foundational knowledge of earth sciences and fieldwork skills. However, many employers prefer or require a bachelor's degree in geology or a related field, and additional certifications or technical skills can enhance job prospects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Geologist jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Geologist jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Geologist jobs in Washington? For Assistant Geologist jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Geologist jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Geologist jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Assistant Geologist jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Assistant Geologist job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Geologist job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,244 per year, or $41.9 per hour.
Environment Geologist - 2 years min. experience

Environment Geologist - 2 years min. experience

AECOM

Germantown, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


AECOM rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 80 rated construction


Job description

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world's most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

AECOM is actively seeking an experienced geologist for employment in the Washington, D.C region to provide technical and management support for a variety of environmental projects (i.e., Remedial Investigations and Site Assessments) primarily within the Federal sector. Under the direction of Project Managers and senior technical staff, the candidate will perform the following as part of a multi-disciplinary project team:

Some of the responsibilities they may perform are:   

  • Manage tasks as part of larger projects.
  • Assist in planning and leading complex field investigation programs involving drilling, borehole logging, well installation, groundwater monitoring, and subsequent remedial activities.
  • Provide technical direction and safety oversight to a team of multi-disciplinary AECOM scientists on large field investigations.
  • Provide technical direction and safety oversight of drilling subcontractors while logging soil/rock cores and directing monitoring well construction.
  • Apply standard field practices and techniques using basic field equipment to collect samples of soil, groundwater, surface water, sediment; prepare samples for shipping, and complete chain-of-custody or similar paperwork.
  • Write technical planning documents and reports with the support of more junior staff.
  • Assist project manager with proposal writing and cost estimating.
  • Work with procurement staff to hire subcontractors and manage implementation of their services.
  • Assist with preparing permits and access agreements with public agencies and other stakeholders.
  • Interact with federal and private clients. Develop client relationships through technical work. Attend site visits and planning meetings.
  • Assist with planning and implementation of remedial actions.

The ideal candidate comes with similar industry experience that has given them the ability to work independently, with discipline, to steer critical tasks towards the overall project objectives. The candidate must be equally able to work in a collaborative team-environment, effectively lead junior staff and foster team building through respect, inclusion, and mentorship. They will display a high level of organization and communication, and demonstrate a strong desire to learn from more senior staff. Flexibility to work on a wide variety of projects, communicate clearly, a positive attitude, and commitment to workplace health and safety are imperative. For the right candidate, this position holds significant growth potential into leadership and management positions.

    Qualifications

    Minimum Requirements

    • Bachelor's degree in Geology or related science
    • 2+ years of post-graduation relevant experience in environmental consulting (i.e., Remedial Investigations and Site Assessments) for Federal, State, or private clients. e or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education.
    • Must have a valid US driver's license. 
    • Due to the nature of the work, US citizenship is required.  Sponsorship will not be available.  
    • Qualified candidates must be comfortable with nationwide travel. Field work will be required, including oversight of AECOM staff and subcontractors.

    Preferred Qualifications

    • More than 4 years experience with Remedial/Site investigation, remediation planning, or design.
    • Experience working on projects focusing on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
    • Desire and ability to travel periodically for week(s)-long regional project assignments and occasional meetings.
    • Anticipated division of job-related tasks is about a 50/50 percent split between field and office work.
    • Safety-focused individual with experience in implementation of safety plans; leading safety kick-off calls, daily "tailgate" safety briefings, and comfortable performing subcontractor safety oversight.
    • Ability to work outside year-round completing field investigations while performing physically demanding work in various climates across the US.
    • Excellent skills in written and spoken communication (including polished client presentation skills), organization, time management, and an individual who thrives in a team-oriented environment.
    • Experience using Microsoft Office (Excel, Access, Word, PowerPoint) and preparing technical reports.
    • Field experience overseeing industry-standard drilling and monitoring well installation methods. Experience logging soils using the USCS.
    • Experience with CERCLA RI/FS, RCRA, and RD/RA projects with commercial or DoD clients.
    • Experience performing environmental investigations at DoD facilities.
    • Certificates - OSHA 40hr HAZWOPER Training and current refresher certificates.
    Additional Information

    At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

    About AECOM 

    AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

    AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients' complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle - from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

    What makes AECOM a great place to work 

    You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you'll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you've always envisioned. Here, you'll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community-where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

    As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. 


    What AECOM employees say

    Pay

    Benefits

    Hours and flexibility

    Workplace

    Get the full story on Breakroom