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Assistant Geologist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Geotechnical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

... skills to assist with the growth and success of the office. We offer a friendly, professional ... Masters Degree in Civil, Geotechnical, or Geological Engineering is a plus. * Professional Engineer ...

This role will assist in managing project activities from initial planning through field execution ... Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Geology, Environmental Science, or a related field. * E.I.T ...

This role will assist in managing project activities from initial planning through field execution ... Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Geology, Environmental Science, or a related field. * E.I.T ...

This role will assist in managing project activities from initial planning through field execution ... Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Geology, Environmental Science, or a related field. * E.I.T ...

Helpdesk Technician

Irvine, CA · On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

... geologists, hydrogeologists, ecologists, chemists, oceanographers, and data scientists with ... Set up and configure hardware and software for new hires and assist with IT onboarding * Maintain ...

Helpdesk Technician

Irvine, CA · On-site

$60K - $73K/yr

... geologists, hydrogeologists, ecologists, chemists, oceanographers, and data scientists with ... Set up and configure hardware and software for new hires and assist with IT onboarding * Maintain ...

Field Technician

Irvine, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

... engineers, geologists, and technical specialists, embedded in a people-focused culture ... * Assist with data collection, interpretation, and basic reporting * Support quality control and ...

... engineers, geologists, and technical specialists, embedded in a people-focused culture ... * Assist with data collection, interpretation, and basic reporting * Support quality control and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Assistant Geologist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$37.6K

$80.4K

$129.9K

How much do assistant geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant geologist in Riverside, CA is $80,363.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,400.00 and $97,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Geologist jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Geologist jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Geologist jobs in Riverside, CA? For Assistant Geologist jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Geologist jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Geologist jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Assistant Geologist jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Assistant Geologist job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Geologist job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,363 per year, or $38.6 per hour.
Sr Environmental Planner/Technical Specialist

Sr Environmental Planner/Technical Specialist

HNTB

Santa Ana, CA

$72K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


HNTB rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

What We're Looking For

At HNTB, you can create a career that is meaningful to you while building communities that matter to all of us. For more than a century, we have been delivering solutions for some of the largest, most complex infrastructure projects across the country. With our historic growth, it is an exciting time to join our team of employee-owners.
This opportunity entails being responsible for applying diversified knowledge and advanced scientific principles, theories, concepts and techniques of geology, hydrology, chemistry or other related sciences to assist or lead all phases of a project including planning, investigation, and recommendations.
This opportunity entails being responsible for applying diversified knowledge and advanced scientific principles, theories, concepts and techniques of geology, hydrology, chemistry or other related sciences to assist or lead all phases of a project including planning, investigation, and recommendations. Responsibilities include preparing environmental technical studies to comply with CEQA and NEPA, and must have experience preparing technical studies in at least one of the following fields of expertise: air quality/GHG, noise/vibration, hazardous waste/materials studies (e.g. ISA Phase 1), cultural, archeology, and historic resources. The candidate is responsible for providing environmental support from concept development through project completion including researching, gathering, and analyzing data, preparing project materials, and applying CEQA and NEPA environmental laws, regulations and policies to ensure compliance on behalf of the client. This position collaborates and communicates with clients and the community, creating and delivering presentations and reports. May function as task lead and provide technical guidance and mentorship to earlier career staff. Candidate must be open to learn other functions of environmental planning.

What You'll Do:

  • Under minimal direction, leads the collection and analyzing of data obtained for projects.
  • Determines or develops best methodology and technical approaches for conducting analysis in field work; sets up test equipment as necessary to obtain scientific data.
  • Examines and evaluates present and future potential environmental science effects relating to the planning, design, and construction of proposed projects.
  • Serves as task lead or principal author in the preparation of reports, on environmental science effects of projects.
  • Provides technical scientific support on environmental issues to project managers during the planning, design or construction of projects.
  • Performs review of work to ensure the design or construction are in compliance with design criteria and scientific specifications and determines the need for additional investigations, studies, or alternate plans or designs if necessary.
  • Prioritizes and participates the marketing and proposal preparation of potential opportunities or projects.
  • Leads the preparation of applications and supporting documents for local, state, and federal environmental permits as well as other regulatory compliance laws and regulations.
  • Organizes and participates in public meetings. Attends various meetings with clients, other engineering firms, and staff and may lead discussion on environmental science issues.
  • Mentors junior staff, provides recruiting recommendations and performance feedback.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

What You'll Need:

  • Bachelor's degree in Geology, Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Archeology, Anthropology, or related field and 8 years relevant experience, or
  • Master's Degree in Geology, Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Archeology, Anthropology, or related field and 7 years of relevant experience

What You'll Bring:

  • Expertise in at least one environmental technical field: air quality/GHG, noise/vibration, hazardous waste/materials studies (e.g. ISA Phase 1), cultural, archeology, and historic resources.
  • Experience in developing standalone environmental technical studies in support of CEQA and NEPA.
  • Operates Microsoft Project and client-specific programs with proficiency and remains current on updates.
  • Provides technical oversight and guidance in the development of new ideas, data, and methodologies and how to apply it to techniques more broadly.
  • Develops the standards of practice for the team by presenting new methods and approaches to scientific and environmental analysis for application to the project.
  • Leads marketing and proposal efforts (i.e., may serve as pursuit champion or oversee production and review of proposals).
  • Review monitoring protocols to ensure compliance with design criteria, scientific specifications, and regulatory approvals/permits.
  • Serves as senior reviewer of technical reports in their entirety, providing guidance to less experienced staff.
  • Serves as a recognized expert in established analytical methods with extensive experience in their application.

What We Prefer:

  • 5-10 years+ experience in preparing environmental technical studies in support of CEQA and NEPA.
  • Expertise in various environmental resource analysis
  • Experience in preparing proposals and marketing

Additional Information

Click here for benefits information: HNTB Total Rewards

Click here to learn more about Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.#AR #EnvironmentalPlanning

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Locations:

Ontario, CA, San Diego, CA, Santa Ana, CA (Irvine)

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The approximate pay range for Los Angeles Metro Area and Orange County, CA is $110,390.23 - $172,661.65. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation will be dependent on factors, including but not limited to, the individual's qualifications, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities as well as physical work location within the state.

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The approximate pay range for San Diego, Sacramento and Inland Empire, CA is $105,590.66 - $165,154.61. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation will be dependent on factors, including but not limited to, the individual's qualifications, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities as well as physical work location within the state.

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The approximate nation wide pay range for this position is $95,991.51 - $187,675.71. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation will be dependent on factors, including but not limited to, the individual's qualifications, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities as well as physical work location within the state.

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NOTICE TO THIRD-PARTY AGENCIES:

HNTB does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or agencies. Any staffing/employment agency, person or entity that submits an unsolicited resume to this site does so with the understanding that the applicant's resume will become the property of HNTB. HNTB will have the right to hire that applicant at its discretion and without any fee owed to the submitting staffing/employment agency, person or entity. Staffing/employment agencies who have fee agreements with HNTB must submit applicants to the designated HNTB recruiter to be eligible for placement fees.


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About HNTB

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HNTB, you can create a career that is meaningful to you while building communities that matter to all of us. For more than a century, we have been delivering solutions for some of the largest, most complex infrastructure projects across the country. With our historic growth, it is an exciting time to join our team of employee-owners.

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1914