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Entry Level Geological Engineer Jobs in California

C2Earth, Inc.

Staff Geologist / Engineer

Campbell, CA · On-site

$55K - $90K/yr

... Geological Engineering, or Civil Engineering with a geotechnical focus. * 0-3 years of professional ... Competitive entry-level salary and benefits package. Flexibility: A healthy mix of field and office ...

Actalent

Geologist

Ventura, CA · Hybrid

$35 - $41/hr

... Geological Sciences, Engineering Geology, or a related field. 1-2 years of professional geology or ... Experience Level Entry Level Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of ...

Intertek

Entry Level Environmental Technician

Oakland, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Entry Level Environmental Technician - Oakland, California Intertek, a leading provider of quality ... AS or BS Degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Geology, Biology, Chemistry, or some ...

Verdantas

Staff Scientist I

West Sacramento, CA · Hybrid

$50K - $60K/yr

... engineers, geologists, and technical specialists, embedded in a people-focused culture ... This is an entry-level stormwater professional role and is a great fit for someone who is eager to ...

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All JobsGeological Engineer JobsEntry Level Geological Engineer JobsEntry Level Geological Engineer Jobs in California

Entry Level Geological Engineer information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$68.5K

$116.5K

How much do entry level geological engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level geological engineer in California is $68,454.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,800.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are geological engineers in demand?

Geological engineers are in steady demand due to their expertise in natural resource exploration, environmental protection, and infrastructure projects. Employment opportunities are often available in industries such as mining, oil and gas, environmental consulting, and government agencies, especially for those with strong technical skills and relevant certifications.

What does an Entry Level Geological Engineer do?

An Entry Level Geological Engineer assists in studying soil, rock, and groundwater conditions to support construction, mining, and environmental projects. They help conduct field investigations, analyze geological data, and prepare reports under the supervision of senior engineers. Their work ensures projects are designed safely and sustainably based on geological conditions. Responsibilities may also include using software to model geological structures and assessing potential hazards like landslides or earthquakes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Geological Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Geological Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in geological engineering or a related field, strong analytical skills, and foundational knowledge of earth sciences. Familiarity with geological mapping software (such as GIS), CAD tools, and basic field instrumentation is commonly required, and certifications like EIT (Engineer-in-Training) may be an advantage. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective written and verbal communication skills make a candidate stand out. These skills are crucial for accurately collecting and interpreting geological data, reporting findings, and safely collaborating with multidisciplinary teams in field and office settings.

What does a typical workday look like for an Entry Level Geological Engineer?

As an Entry Level Geological Engineer, your days can be a mix of fieldwork and office tasks. Field responsibilities may include collecting soil and rock samples, monitoring site conditions, and supporting senior engineers during site investigations. In the office, you might analyze data, prepare project reports, and use specialized software to interpret findings. You’ll often work alongside other engineers, geologists, and environmental scientists, gaining exposure to current projects and learning industry best practices. This role provides hands-on experience that lays the foundation for future career growth in geological engineering.

How to get into geological engineering?

To become an entry-level geological engineer, obtain a bachelor's degree in geological engineering, geology, or a related field from an accredited program. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in geology and engineering software, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects.

What are some entry level geology jobs?

Entry-level geological engineer positions typically include roles such as field technician, geological assistant, or junior geologist. These jobs often involve site inspections, data collection, and basic analysis, requiring knowledge of geological tools and safety protocols. They provide foundational experience for advancing in the geology field.

What does an entry level geotechnical engineer do?

An entry-level geotechnical engineer assesses soil, rock, and groundwater conditions to determine their impact on construction projects. They perform site investigations, analyze data using engineering software, and assist in designing foundations, retaining walls, and other geotechnical structures under supervision.
What are the most commonly searched types of Geological Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Geological Engineer jobs in California are:
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Geological Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Geological Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Geological Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Geological Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Geological Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Geological Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,454 per year, or $32.9 per hour.
Staff Geologist / Engineer

Staff Geologist / Engineer

C2Earth, Inc.

Campbell, CA • On-site

$55K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Staff Geologist / Engineer

Campbell or Capitola, California


Why C2Earth is more than just a job

Imagine starting your career at a firm that combines technical rigor, real-world impact, and deep respect for place. That's C2Earth. We're a privately held, majority Black-owned small business doing thoughtful, problem-solving engineering geology and geotechnical work throughout the greater San Francisco and Monterey Bay areas.


At C2Earth, you'll inherit a legacy: the reputation of Upp Geotechnology (founded in 1983) plus the innovative spark and commitment brought by our founders, Craig Reid and Chris Hundemer. We're more than "consultants" -- we're advisors, protectors, and enablers. Our work touches everything from safety (schools, hospitals, essential buildings) to beauty (coastal bluffs, parks) to infrastructure that supports thriving communities.


When you join us, you join a team with decades of combined experience, with project files going back to the early 1980s. We've seen it all -- small residential additions, complex slope stabilization, liquefaction hazards, coastal erosion, distressed buildings, and critical infrastructure. Whether it's solving for a retaining wall, a foundation, or a bluff subject to sea level rise, we don't just do the work -- we do it with care, precision, and purpose.


The Role: What You'll Do
  • Support geotechnical and geologic investigations under the guidance of senior staff.
  • Assist with field work, including drilling, test pits, soil and rock logging, sampling, and construction observation.
  • Conduct geologic mapping, monitoring, and site reconnaissance.
  • Perform basic data analysis and prepare figures, tables, and graphics for reports.
  • Draft portions of technical reports, proposals, and correspondence for review.
  • Learn project management fundamentals and client communication while building technical expertise.
Why You'll Love Working Here

Launch Your Career: Hands-on experience across diverse projects with direct mentorship from licensed professionals.

Impact & Variety: Exposure to residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects across Northern California.

Professional Growth: Support for licensure, continuing education, and developing areas of specialization.

Small Enough to Matter, Big Enough to Deliver: Your work will be meaningful, recognized, and impactful from day one.

Culture of Ownership & Respect: As a minority-owned firm, we value integrity, diversity, and community in how we operate.


What We're Looking For
  • A bachelor's degree in Geology, Geological Engineering, or Civil Engineering with a geotechnical focus.
  • 0-3 years of professional experience (internships and field/lab work count).
  • Progress toward California professional certification (GIT, EIT, PG, PE, or CEG/GE) is a plus but not required.
  • Strong observational and problem-solving skills with a willingness to learn.
  • Good writing and communication skills, with attention to detail.
  • A collaborative mindset, enthusiasm for field work, and curiosity about geotechnical and geologic consulting.
Perks & Practical Info

Location: Based in Campbell (San Francisco Bay Area) with a second office in Capitola serving Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay.

Compensation: Competitive entry-level salary and benefits package.

Flexibility: A healthy mix of field and office work to build well-rounded skills.

Growth: Clear career path with mentorship, licensure support, and training opportunities.

Project Diversity: Work on coastal, hillside, urban, and infrastructure sites that will challenge and inspire you.


Join Us & Build Something Solid

If you're ready to kick off your career in geology or engineering and want to learn from some of the best in the business, C2Earth is the place for you. You'll gain the skills, experience, and mentorship to grow into a trusted professional while contributing to projects that make communities safer and stronger.