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Associate Geologist Jobs in San Ramon, CA (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

$58.07 - $67.26/hr

The classification is distinguished from the next higher level of Associate Civil Engineer in that ... Geologists. The type of supervision given to Assistant Engineers varies with the experience of the ...

... engineers, geologists, and technical specialists, embedded in a people-focused culture ... Associate degree or relevant experience in project management or construction projects * 7+ years ...

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Associate Geologist information

See San Ramon, CA salary details

$40.2K

$86.1K

$139.1K

How much do associate geologist jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate geologist in San Ramon, CA is $86,083.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,600.00 and $103,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 some common challenges faced by Associate Geologists when working 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 are Associate Geologists?

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Geologist jobs in San Ramon, CA? The most popular types of Geologist jobs in San Ramon, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Geologist jobs in San Ramon, CA? For Associate Geologist jobs in San Ramon, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near San Ramon, CA are hiring for Associate Geologist jobs? Cities near San Ramon, CA with the most Associate Geologist job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Geologist job openings in San Ramon, CA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,083 per year, or $41.4 per hour.
Project Hydrogeologist

Project Hydrogeologist

Montgomery & Associates

Oakland, CA

$8K - $9.50K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Project Hydrogeologist
Montgomery & Associates (M&A) is seeking a full-time hydrogeologist or groundwater hydrologist to join our California Team. The position includes mid-level responsibilities and requires the ability to manage and provide technical support to multiple tasks and/or projects simultaneously. The person in this position will interact with M&A team leaders, project staff, project managers, administrative personnel, clients, and regulators.
Our company of highly respected water resource professionals, headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, has been in business since 1984 and is growing, with recent expansions in the western United States and South America. In California, our team comprises 24 professional staff across 4 offices: Oakland, Sacramento, Monterey, and Pasadena.
This position will support groundwater resource planning and environmental projects throughout California, with a strong emphasis on Northern California and the Central Valley. The role offers an exciting opportunity to work with a dedicated team of water resource scientists and engineers and interact with industry leaders.
The position is available in our Sacramento or Oakland location. We currently require staff to work at least 50% in the office to promote collaboration, mentoring, and interacting on project work.
Work duties will include:
Managing and technically contributing to tasks and projects that focus on quantitative hydrogeology and groundwater resource management, including:
  • Supporting projects planning and implementation of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA)
  • Supporting groundwater remediation activities associated with complex environmental sites, including monitoring program coordination, data evaluation, and reporting
  • Interpretation of lithologic, hydrologic testing, depth-specific water quality, and borehole geophysical data
  • Designing and interpreting results of predictive modeling runs and supporting model updates
  • Evaluating and filling hydrogeologic data gaps
  • Developing hydrogeologic conceptual models
  • Developing water budgets
  • Designing and managing field investigations
  • Interacting with field teams to implement monitoring programs
  • Evaluating data and preparing technical reports
  • Preparing technical proposals and work plans for future work
  • Overseeing work completed by junior staff
  • Assisting project managers with administrative duties on projects
Education and Professional Credentials
  • Graduate degree in hydrology, geology, civil engineering, or environmental engineering OR
  • Professional registration (P.G. or P.E.)
(Both preferred, but at least one required)
Required Qualifications
  • Understanding of groundwater principles
  • Clear understanding of how to apply hydrogeologic principles to characterize and assess groundwater systems
  • Five to 10 years of experience in environmental and water resource consulting
  • Task or project management experience
  • Understanding of SGMA regulatory requirements
  • Strong organizational, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills, and ability to meet deadlines
  • Proficiency with standard analytical approaches and tools
  • Demonstrated technical writing skills and ability to present technical information in group/meeting settings to peers and clients
  • Team-oriented and experienced with delegating work to staff and reviewing staff deliverables
  • Interest in engaging in professional organizations, including presenting at conferences
Preferred Qualifications
  • Working knowledge of geographic information systems (ArcGIS), Survey123, and SQL and Access databases
  • Professional experience working with groundwater models and stratigraphic modeling software
  • Experience working on SGMA implementation projects for local Groundwater Sustainability Agencies
  • Professional experience with groundwater sampling, remedial investigations, and remediation technologies
Your benefits at Montgomery & Associates will include:
  • Competitive benefits and salary in an expanding team-oriented company
  • Dynamic work environment with safety and technical training provided by the company
  • Interesting and collaborative multidisciplinary projects
  • On the job mentoring by senior professionals
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account; HRA
  • Long- and short-term disability
  • Life/AD&D insurance
  • Vacation, holiday, personal, and sick leave
  • Employer matching 401k retirement plan
Monthly Base Pay Range: $8,000 - $9,500
Estimated Annualized Compensation Including Bonuses: $108,000 - $128,000
Compensation for qualified extra hours could further increase the estimate above.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer
M&A values diversity and inclusivity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, religious creed, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other classification protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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