1

Associate Geologist Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Senior Brownfields Specialist

Denver, CO · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

A bachelor's degree in environmental or geological engineering, environmental science, geology, planning, project management, economic development, or design. * A minimum of eight years of relevant ...

Be Seen First

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in civil engineering technology, construction management, geology, or a related technical field. * NICET certification in Construction Materials Testing. * Experience ...

Be Seen First

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in civil engineering technology, construction management, geology, or a related technical field. * NICET certification in Construction Materials Testing. * Experience ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Geologist information

See Colorado salary details

$37.9K

$81K

$130.9K

How much do associate geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate geologist in Colorado is $80,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,900.00 and $97,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Associate Geologist vs Geologist?

AspectAssociate GeologistGeologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in geology or related field; entry-level certification often preferredBachelor's degree in geology; some roles require additional certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data analysis, report writing; often supervised by senior staffFieldwork, laboratory analysis, project planning; more autonomous with experience
Employer & Industry UsageMining, environmental consulting, oil & gas; entry-level or junior rolesMining, environmental, oil & gas, academia; mid-level roles with more responsibilities

The main difference between an Associate Geologist and a Geologist lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Geologists are typically entry-level professionals focusing on field data collection and basic analysis, often working under supervision. Geologists usually have more experience, handle complex projects, and may have additional certifications. Both roles are essential in geology-related industries, but the Geologist position generally involves greater independence and technical expertise.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an associate geologist?

To thrive as an Associate Geologist, you generally need a degree in geology or earth sciences, strong analytical skills, and foundational fieldwork experience. Familiarity with GIS software, geological mapping tools, and data analysis systems is typically required, and certifications such as OSHA HAZWOPER may be advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help distinguish top candidates in this role. These skills ensure accurate data collection and analysis, safe field practices, and clear reporting, all of which are critical for successful geological projects.

What are common challenges faced by associate geologists in the field?

Associate Geologists frequently encounter challenges such as adapting to varying weather conditions, navigating remote or rugged terrain, and ensuring the accuracy of field data collection. They must also manage tight project deadlines while balancing fieldwork with office-based analysis and reporting. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers and environmental scientists, is often essential to successfully complete projects and resolve any unexpected geological issues that arise.

What is an associate geologist?

Associate Geologists are entry- to mid-level professionals who assist senior geologists in studying the Earth's structure, composition, and various geological processes. They often conduct fieldwork, collect samples, perform laboratory analyses, and help interpret data to support environmental studies, resource exploration, or construction projects. Associate Geologists may also prepare reports, maps, and presentations based on their findings, and they typically work under the supervision of more experienced geologists. This role is a common starting point for those building a career in geology or earth sciences.
What are the most commonly searched types of Geologist jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Geologist jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Geologist jobs in Colorado? For Associate Geologist jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Geologist jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Geologist jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Associate Geologist jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Associate Geologist job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Geologist job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,999 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

Geotechnical Engineer (Principal-Level)

Shannon & Wilson Inc

Wheat Ridge, CO

$150K - $200K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description

Shannon & Wilson is an employee-owned consulting firm headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Committed to technical excellence and high-quality service, we provide integrated geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, environmental and natural resource services for clients worldwide. Since 1954, we have delivered comprehensive engineering and environmental solutions for some of the most challenging infrastructure planning, design, permitting and construction conditions.


As employee owners, we are dedicated to improving our communities, preserving the environment and utilizing innovative science practices in our work.


Job Summary


The Principal Geotechnical Engineer serves as a senior technical leader responsible for delivering geotechnical engineering solutions, guiding multidisciplinary teams, advancing technical excellence, and supporting business development. This role provides strategic direction on geotechnical investigations, design methodologies, risk management, and project execution across major infrastructure and development projects.


Responsibilities:

  • Serve as the geotechnical technical authority, providing peer review, quality oversight, and sign-off on geotechnical deliverables. 
  • Manage all phases of technical engineering projects, provide guidance to the engineering teams working on projects, and assure successful achievement of project goals.
  • Lead proposal development to include: project scoping; fee estimating; and review and negotiate of contracts. 
  • Build and maintain client relationships; serve as a trusted adviser on geotechnical issues; resolve client conflicts and concerns. 
  • Oversee quality control, conduct engineering studies and investigations, and prepare and review design reports, progress reports, and project completion reports for company management.
  • Contribute to strategic growth initiatives, market positioning, and technical capability development.
  • Conduct and supervise analyses, studies and calculations (e.g., finite element modeling, seismic response, settlement modeling, slope stability, seepage). 
  • Mentor and develop junior and mid-level geotechnical engineers and may supervise a team of engineers.
  • Lead or support recruitment and talent development for geotechnical teams.
  • Review operational procedures to ensure compliance with applicable policies and performance measures. 
  • Keeps abreast of industry trends and issues.
  • Assist in committee work to support strategic goals of the company.
  • Follow Shannon & Wilson's Quality Assurance policy.
  • Follow and promote Shannon and Wilson's Health and Safety and Loss Prevention policies.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by your supervisor.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's or master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related field (PhD preferred for highly technical roles). 
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license required; GE license preferred where applicable.
  • 20+ years of experience as a Geotechnical Engineer.
  • Demonstrated history leading large, infrastructure projects.
  • Experience with advanced geotechnical modeling software.  
  • Proven experience in leadership, project management, and client management.
  • Strong technical writing and communication abilities. 
  • High proficiency in interpreting geological and geotechnical data. 
  • Strong decision-making and risk-assessment skills. 
  • Ability to work collaboratively across disciplines and lead diverse teams.
  • The willingness and ability to travel to support the needs of other Shannon & Wilson offices.  
  • A valid driver license and insurable driving record. 
  • The ability to travel (drive or fly) to field sites per project needs and job sites locally and out of state.  
  • Frequent sitting, standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying 30+ pounds. 
  • Working in all weather conditions on uneven terrain. 

Level Placement

Typically, depending on an applicant's education, experience, other qualifications they possess, if they are a fit for the company and local office culture, and the current business needs, a Principal-Level Geotechnical Engineer would be placed at a Shannon & Wilson Associate Vice President or Vice President.


The base annual salary for this position will be $150,000 - $200,000.


 Shannon & Wilson is committed to providing a comprehensive total rewards package that includes the following benefits:  

  • Employee stock ownership  
  • Medical, prescription, vision, dental, long-term care and life insurance plans are offered to employees (and their families).  
  • Pre-tax health and daycare FSA  
  • Profit sharing and 401(k) plans with annual safe-harbor contributions  
  • 10 - 20 paid vacation days per year for full-time employees, based on years of experience (prorated for part-time employment) 
  • Sick leave accrues based on state requirements 
  • 9 paid holidays per year + 1 personal holiday  
  • Paid volunteer day  
  • Paid time off for bereavement and jury duty  
  • Two weeks of paid parental leave  
  • Lunch & Live wellness webinars and an Employee Assistance Program 
  • Mentorship Program 
  • Tuition Reimbursement 
  • Free parking  

Shannon & Wilson is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Shannon & Wilson participates in the E-Verify program.

Please note that non-solicited resumes from external recruitment agencies will not be considered as introductions to our business, unless a preapproved agreement is in place and the external recruitment agency has been engaged to work on this specific vacancy.