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Development Geologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Essel

Geologist

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

As a Project Geologist, you will play a key role in conducting geological and environmental ... Development and oversight of remedial/removal actions * Field sampling and procedures

Essel

Geologist

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

As a Project Geologist, you will play a key role in conducting geological and environmental ... Development and oversight of remedial/removal actions * Field sampling and procedures

Essel

Geologist

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

As a Project Geologist, you will play a key role in conducting geological and environmental ... Development and oversight of remedial/removal actions * Field sampling and procedures

Terra AI

Senior Geologist

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$185K - $250K/yr

... development. As global demand for copper, lithium, nickel, rare earth elements, geothermal energy ... The company's platform integrates geological, geophysical, and drilling data into intelligent ...

Essel

Geologist

Fairfield, CA · On-site

Analyze geological data and prepare detailed technical reports. * Evaluate potential environmental ... Contribute to business development efforts, including proposal preparation. * Supervise personnel ...

Essel

Geologist

Fairfield, CA · On-site

Analyze geological data and prepare detailed technical reports. * Evaluate potential environmental ... Contribute to business development efforts, including proposal preparation. * Supervise personnel ...

Terra AI

Senior Geologist

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$185K - $250K/yr

... development. As global demand for copper, lithium, nickel, rare earth elements, geothermal energy ... The company's platform integrates geological, geophysical, and drilling data into intelligent ...

Essel

Geologist

Fairfield, CA · On-site

Analyze geological data and prepare detailed technical reports. * Evaluate potential environmental ... Contribute to business development efforts, including proposal preparation. * Supervise personnel ...

NV5

Geologist

Ventura, CA · Hybrid

$35 - $41/hr

As our Geologist, you will spend 80%-90% of your time in the field and 10%-20% in the office ... development/advancement opportunities. NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all ...

NV5

Geologist

Ventura, CA · On-site

$35 - $41/hr

As our Geologist, you will spend 80%-90% of your time in the field and 10%-20% in the office ... development/advancement opportunities. NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all ...

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All JobsDevelopment Geologist JobsDevelopment Geologist Jobs in California

Development Geologist information

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

To thrive as a Development Geologist, you generally need a degree in geology or earth sciences, with expertise in sedimentology, stratigraphy, and reservoir characterization. Familiarity with geological modeling software (such as Petrel), seismic interpretation tools, and experience with well log analysis are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills are crucial in this role. These skills are vital for accurately evaluating subsurface formations, optimizing hydrocarbon extraction, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to maximize resource development.

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 expertise in exploration and production. Experienced geologists with advanced degrees, certifications, and skills in seismic interpretation or reservoir modeling tend to command higher pay, especially in the energy sector.

What is the highest paying geologist job?

The highest paying geology-related roles are often senior or specialized positions such as petroleum geologists, exploration managers, or geoscience directors, especially in the oil and gas industry. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and often involve working in remote or challenging environments, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually in some cases.

How does a Development Geologist typically collaborate with engineers and other subsurface professionals on oil and gas projects?

Development Geologists work closely with reservoir engineers, drilling engineers, and geophysicists to optimize field development plans. They interpret geological data to create detailed reservoir models, which guide drilling locations and production strategies. Regular cross-disciplinary meetings and data-sharing are common, ensuring that geological insights are integrated with engineering constraints to maximize resource recovery. This collaborative environment helps align project goals and troubleshoot challenges as they arise.

What is the difference between Development Geologist vs Exploration Geologist?

AspectDevelopment GeologistExploration Geologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, often with industry certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, often with certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-site at oil and gas fields, working with drilling and production teamsFieldwork in remote areas, conducting surveys and sampling
Industry UsageFocuses on developing known reservoirs and optimizing productionFocuses on discovering new reserves and exploration activities

Development Geologists primarily work on mature fields to enhance extraction, while Exploration Geologists seek new reserves. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications but differ in their focus and work environment.

What does a development geologist do?

A development geologist analyzes subsurface rock formations to identify and evaluate hydrocarbon reservoirs, supporting the development of oil and gas fields. They interpret geological data, create maps, and collaborate with engineers to optimize drilling and production processes, often using tools like seismic imaging and geological modeling software.

Is there a high demand for geologists?

Development geologists are in moderate demand, especially in the oil and gas, mineral exploration, and environmental sectors. Employment opportunities depend on industry activity, commodity prices, and technological advancements, with skills in GIS, data analysis, and fieldwork being valuable. Overall, demand can fluctuate based on market conditions and energy policies.
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What cities in California are hiring for Development Geologist jobs? Cities in California with the most Development Geologist job openings:
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Development Geologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Development Geologist job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.
Geologist

Geologist

Essel

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Essel, a leading environmental services company dedicated to providing innovative solutions for our clients is currently seeking a talented and motivated Geologist:

As a Project Geologist, you will play a key role in conducting geological and environmental assessments, performing field investigations, and analyzing data to support our projects. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists to evaluate and mitigate potential environmental risks and impacts.

Position: Project Geologist (Full-time)
Location: Tustin, CA

Primary Responsibilities:

    • Analyzing geological data and preparing technical reports
    • Evaluating potential environmental risks and impacts
    • Developing and implementing remediation plans
    • Project and task management
    • Preparation of technical reports
    • Development and oversight of remedial/removal actions
    • Field sampling and procedures
    • Implementation of soil and groundwater investigations
    • Oversight of munitions response projects
    • Business development and proposal preparation
    • Personnel supervision and staff development/mentoring
    • Delegating tasks and developing "win themes"
    • Building an area of expertise and internal reputation as a technical resource
    • Comprehensive understanding of project management, including scheduling and cost controls
    • Managing client expectations and maintaining communication with clients and regulatory agencies
    • Reporting project status to the program manager
    • Conducting field investigations and collecting geological samples
    • Assisting with environmental assessments and compliance
    • Collaborating with clients, regulators, and other stakeholders
    • Using specialized software and equipment for data analysis and mapping

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

      • Minimum of 3 years of experience in environmental and engineering consulting, remedial actions, and munitions response projects
      • Bachelor's degree from a 4-year college or university
      • 40-hour OSHA certification and current 8-Hour HAZWOPER Refresher
      • Proficiency in MS Office Suite Products
      • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
      • Ability to interact effectively with clients, regulatory agencies, field operations, technical staff, and subcontractors
      • Capability to write project work plans, health and safety plans, traffic control plans, erosion control plans, etc.
      • Ability to travel up to 25 to 50 percent of the time to project sites, as needed

Preferred Qualifications:

      • Bachelor's degree in Geology, Earth Science, Environmental Science, or related field
      • M.S./P.G. or other professional certifications
      • Demonstrated experience managing and executing environmental/remediation construction
      • Previous involvement in preparing or contributing to project proposals

Benefits

Key Benefits:

    • Competitive compensation
    • Comprehensive health and wellness benefits
    • Discounted fitness membership
    • On-the-job training
    • Educational assistance
    • Opportunities for career advancement

Apply