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Entry Level Geological Engineer Jobs in California

TERRACON

Assistant Geologist

Colton, CA · On-site

Generate subsurface maps and cross-sections and collaborate with engineering and environmental ... Support consistent quality standards on proposal and project delivery. * Entry level geological ...

TERRACON

Assistant Geologist

Carson, CA · On-site

Generate subsurface maps and cross-sections and collaborate with engineering and environmental ... Support consistent quality standards on proposal and project delivery. * Entry level geological ...

TERRACON

Assistant Geologist

Colton, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $34.50/hr

Support consistent quality standards on proposal and project delivery. * Entry level geological ... minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations ...

TERRACON

Assistant Geologist

Gardena, CA · On-site

$26.75 - $37.50/hr

Support consistent quality standards on proposal and project delivery. * Entry level geological ... minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations ...

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 ...

WSP

Early Career Civil/Geotechnical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$88K - $110K/yr

... geological hazards, underground water, and slope stability for commercial, industrial, building ... Perform routine geotechnical engineering functions and provide entry-level technical assistance on ...

WSP

Early Career Civil/Geotechnical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$88K - $110K/yr

... geological hazards, underground water, and slope stability for commercial, industrial, building ... Perform routine geotechnical engineering functions and provide entry-level technical assistance on ...

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 ...

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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 18, 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:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Geological Engineer jobs in California? For Entry Level Geological Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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, 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,454 per year, or $32.9 per hour.
Assistant Geologist

Assistant Geologist

TERRACON

Colton, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Terracon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 117 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 58 rated business consultants

Job description

Evaluate and interpret subsurface field and sampling data including soil and groundwater to develop conclusions concerning the environmental and geologic site conditions. Generate subsurface maps and cross-sections and collaborate with engineering and environmental scientist staff on projects. Oversee field monitoring and testing of soils including boring investigations and soil type classification. Interpret soil, bedrock and groundwater elevation and quality data. Prepare written plans and reports related to site investigations, assessments and remediation activities. Projects may include construction projects focusing on earthwork and structural foundations; well design and sampling; environmental assessments including Phase I/II site assessments; seismic risk assessments. 

Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.

Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
Innovation and hands-on practice come together in our geotechnical consulting services. We provide geotechnical services nationwide for a wide range of projects, drawing on six decades of historical geotechnical data, a fleet of more than 200 drill rigs, 140 accredited laboratories, and thousands of employees to quickly organize or capture site data wherever projects are located.From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration, we deliver precision, value-added subsurface information and engineering and scientific expertise to solving our clients' challenges and achieve their goals for project sustainability, quality, and efficiency.
  • Bachelor's degree in Geology, Hydrogeology or related field.
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history.

Preferred Certification:

  • Certification in field of expertise preferred.
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Understand and practice quality acumen.
  • Support consistent quality standards on proposal and project delivery.
  • Entry level geological professional responsible for gathering data and information to be evaluated by other team members.
  • Performs sampling and testing of water, soil, and other materials.
  • Tabulate and prepare data for written reports.
  • Assist with report preparation by summarizing data and information within reports.
  • Operates field monitoring equipment.
  • Assists with operation and maintenance of remediation and instrumentation systems.
  • Transport material, samples or documents to the laboratory for further testing and analysis.
  • Maintains and calibrates field monitoring equipment.

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