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Certified Professional Geologist Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Senior Project Engineer

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

$90K - $117K/yr

... Geological Engineering, or a related field * 15+ years of relevant professional experience ... S. * Experience with landfill construction QA/QC and certification, landfill gas management ...

Senior Project Engineer

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

$90K - $117K/yr

... Geological Engineering, or a related field * 15+ years of relevant professional experience ... S. * Experience with landfill construction QA/QC and certification, landfill gas management ...

Senior Project Engineer

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

$90K - $117K/yr

... Geological Engineering, or a related field * 15+ years of relevant professional experience ... S. * Experience with landfill construction QA/QC and certification, landfill gas management ...

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Showing results 1-20

Certified Professional Geologist information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$33.9K

$72.5K

$117.1K

How much do certified professional geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for certified professional geologist in Rio Rancho, NM is $72,455.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,700.00 and $87,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Certified Professional Geologist vs Geoscientist?

CriteriaCertified Professional GeologistGeoscientist
CredentialsRequires state licensure, degree in geology, and work experienceTypically requires a degree in geosciences; licensure not mandatory
Work EnvironmentConsulting, regulatory, and environmental firms; field and office workResearch, academia, industry; primarily office and lab work
Industry UsageLicensed for legal and regulatory responsibilitiesResearch and analysis roles in various sectors

The main difference is that Certified Professional Geologists are licensed professionals authorized to provide legal and regulatory services in geology, while Geoscientists generally work in research or industry without licensure requirements. Certification emphasizes legal authority and client trust, whereas geoscientists focus on scientific research and analysis.

What is a certified professional geologist?

A Certified Professional Geologist (CPG) is a licensed geologist who has met specific education, experience, and ethical requirements set by a state licensing board. They often work in fields such as environmental consulting, resource exploration, and geotechnical engineering, using skills like fieldwork, data analysis, and reporting. Certification demonstrates expertise and adherence to professional standards in geology practice.

How does a Certified Professional Geologist typically collaborate with engineers and project managers during site investigations?

Certified Professional Geologists play a key role in multidisciplinary teams, working closely with engineers and project managers to assess geological conditions and mitigate potential risks during site investigations. They often provide critical data, such as soil and rock analysis, groundwater assessments, and hazard evaluations, which inform project planning and design. Effective communication and regular meetings are essential, as geologists must translate complex geological findings into actionable recommendations for engineering and construction teams. This collaborative environment not only ensures project safety and compliance but also offers geologists valuable opportunities to expand their expertise and advance their careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Certified Professional Geologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Certified Professional Geologist, you need a solid background in geology, geoscience principles, and a relevant degree, along with state certification or licensure. Familiarity with GIS software, geospatial data analysis tools, and field sampling equipment is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help geologists excel in research and client interactions. These skills and qualifications are critical to ensure accurate geological assessments, regulatory compliance, and effective project management.

What is the highest paying geologist job?

The highest paying geologist roles are often in exploration geology, petroleum geology, or senior management positions such as chief geologist or geological consultant, especially in the oil and gas industry. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in subsurface analysis and resource estimation, with salaries significantly higher than entry-level positions.

Is there a high demand for geologists?

The demand for Certified Professional Geologists is generally steady, especially in sectors such as environmental consulting, natural resource exploration, and hazard assessment. Employment opportunities depend on industry activity, regulatory requirements, and geographic location, with skills in GIS, data analysis, and fieldwork being valuable assets.

What type of geologist gets paid the most?

Among geologists, petroleum geologists typically earn the highest salaries due to their work in the oil and gas industry, which often offers higher compensation for specialized skills and fieldwork. Other high-paying roles include geotechnical and engineering geologists working on large infrastructure projects or environmental consulting, especially with advanced certifications and experience.
What are popular job titles related to Certified Professional Geologist jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Certified Professional Geologist jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Certified Professional Geologist jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Certified Professional Geologist jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Certified Professional Geologist jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Certified Professional Geologist job openings:
Geologist / Geologist-In-Training

Geologist / Geologist-In-Training

Parkhill

Rio Rancho, NM โ€ข Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Overview

The Geologist / Geologist-in-Training (PG/GIT) in the Solid Waste & Environmental Sector supports and leads geological, hydrogeological, environmental compliance, permitting, and monitoring efforts associated with municipal solid waste facilities, environmental infrastructure, and related environmental projects. This role works collaboratively with engineers, environmental scientists, regulatory agencies, and clients to develop practical solutions that support environmental protection and regulatory compliance. This is a full-time position paid bi-weekly on a salary basis.

Life at Parkhillย At Parkhill, Building Community is the reason we exist. We invest in extraordinary people who love investing in their communities. We are more than planners, architects, and engineers - we are neighbors who choose to live and work in the communities we serve.ย 

Increase your impact with our team of passionate collaborators. Whether you are a recent graduate with untapped potential or a professional with proven experience, we invite you to discover a career path designed for you.ย 

Parkhill is one of the largest architectural and engineering firms in the Southwest with14offices located throughout Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma.ย 

Responsibilities
  • Support and lead geological and hydrogeological investigations associated with municipal solid waste and environmental projects.
  • Develop and maintain groundwater monitoring programs.
  • Perform groundwater, soil, surface water, landfill gas, and environmental sampling activities.
  • Evaluate hydrogeologic conditions and prepare technical analyses and reports.
  • Prepare and support environmental permit applications, permit modifications, and regulatory submittals.
  • Coordinate with regulatory agencies including TCEQ, NMED, ODEQ, EPA, and similar organizations.
  • Assist with landfill siting, expansion, closure, post-closure, and corrective action projects.
  • Interpret geological, geotechnical, hydrogeological, and environmental data.
  • Prepare groundwater monitoring reports, environmental compliance reports, and technical memoranda.
  • Coordinate field investigations including drilling, monitoring well installation, sampling, and contractor oversight.
  • Participate in client meetings, regulatory meetings, and project presentations.
  • Support proposal preparation, project planning, business development activities, and project pursuits.
  • Travel periodically throughout Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and surrounding regions.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Geology, Hydrogeology, Environmental Geology, Geological Engineering, Earth Sciences, or a closely related field.

Geologist-in-Training (GIT), Professional Geologist (PG), or ability to obtain applicable certification/licensure.

Strong technical writing, communication, and organizational skills.

Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Valid driver's license and ability to travel.

Benefits and Perks

We offer a comprehensive benefits program that supports the whole person. Our benefits include:ย 

  • Life Balance: hybrid/flexible work schedules, flexible work environment, generous PTO, paid holidays.ย ย 
  • Investing in Your Future Growth: specialized training, continuing education, professional licensing, intern development programs, University of Parkhill.ย ย 
  • Competitive Benefits: Multiple health plan options, FSA for dependent care, HSA contributions, employer 401k contribution, employer-paid basic life, short/long term disability coverage, performance bonuses.ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย 
  • Well-Being: mental health care, culture committees, wellness program, charitable giving match.ย ย 
Employment Type: FULL_TIME