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Entry Level Geologist Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

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

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

Entry Level Geologist information

See Alabama salary details

$32.6K

$69.8K

$112.8K

How much do entry level geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level geologist in Alabama is $69,819.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,800.00 and $84,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Geologist, you need a solid understanding of geology fundamentals, fieldwork techniques, and data analysis, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in geology or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, mapping tools, and laboratory equipment is commonly required, along with knowledge of environmental regulations. Strong communication, attention to detail, and teamwork skills help you collaborate effectively and accurately interpret findings. These competencies are essential for collecting reliable data, producing quality reports, and contributing to successful geoscience projects.

What does an entry level geologist do?

An entry level geologist assists with fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation to study the Earth’s materials, processes, and history. Typical tasks include collecting rock, soil, and water samples, preparing reports, and using specialized software for geological mapping. They often work under the supervision of senior geologists and may be involved in environmental assessments, resource exploration, or construction projects. This role provides foundational experience and training for advancing in the geosciences field.

How Can I Get a Job as an Entry-Level Geologist?

If you want to get an entry-level job as a geologist, you need to pursue a bachelor's degree in geology or environmental science. You need a strong knowledge of physics, math, and physical science. Many geologists use geographic information systems (GIS) and global positioning systems (GPS) to fulfill their duties, so you must be familiar with these technologies. If you work in a specific industry, such as petroleum, mining, or city planning, you need a basic understanding of the policies, procedures, and regulations associated with the field. Additional qualifications include researching skills and excellent communication abilities.

What is the difference between Entry Level Geologist vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level GeologistGeotechnical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Geology or Earth SciencesBachelor's in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, sampling, lab analysisDesign, analysis, site assessments
Industry UsageMining, environmental consulting, oil & gasConstruction, infrastructure, foundation design

Entry Level Geologists and Geotechnical Engineers often share educational backgrounds and work in related industries. While geologists focus on studying Earth's materials and field sampling, geotechnical engineers apply engineering principles to soil and rock analysis for construction projects. Both roles may involve site investigations, but their specific tasks and career paths differ. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right entry point in the geosciences or engineering fields.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level geologists in their first year, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level geologists often encounter challenges such as adapting to fieldwork conditions, learning new data collection technologies, and interpreting geological data accurately. Balancing time between office analysis and on-site investigations can also be demanding. These challenges can be addressed by actively seeking mentorship from senior geologists, participating in training sessions, and maintaining strong communication within the project team. Being proactive in asking questions and taking notes during site visits helps build confidence and technical skills over time.
What are the most commonly searched types of Geologist jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Geologist jobs in Alabama are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Geologist jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Geologist jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Entry Level Geologist jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Entry Level Geologist job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Geologist job openings in Alabama as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,819 per year, or $33.6 per hour.

Early Career Geotechnical Engineer

WSP

Birmingham, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago


WSP rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 73 rated business consultants


Job description


This Opportunity
WSP is currently initiating a search for an Early Career Geotechnical Engineer for our Birmingham, Alabama office.
Take part in providing local geotechnical engineering assistance for the design, development, and construction of infrastructure projects and systems in the public and private sector. Tasks may include basic assistance with the research, design, analysis, concept development, and construction of roads, buildings, tunnels, dams, canals, levees, bridges, water supply systems, underground storage, and sewage treatment. Generates accurate and concise documentation regarding assigned aspects of the project. Ensures that responsibilities are delivered and adhered to with a level of quality that meets or exceeds acceptable industry standards for design, safety, and functionality.
Your Impact
    • Under general supervision, assist with collecting, compiling, and analyzing data from the physical work site, soil/water/sludge/rock samples, surveys, blueprints, GIS data, subsurface information, maps, geotechnical data, and other matrices for project development, design, and construction.
    • Maintain quality control standards and procedures for accurate and precise measurements.
    • Assist with performing basic professional geotechnical engineering work relating to proposed and existing site conditions, including subsurface investigations, soil foundation engineering, settlement analysis, soil erosion, lateral earth pressures, geological hazards, underground water, and slope stability for commercial, industrial, building, environmental, infrastructure, and transportation projects.
    • Perform routine geotechnical engineering functions and provide entry-level technical assistance on various design requirements, operating strategies to account for the safety and functionality of end-users, systems, and infrastructure.
    • Assist with verifying the characteristics of a site and providing basic technical assistance on various environmental, design, and construction issues involving rock and soil mechanics, and investigating subsurface and geological conditions to design and build foundations, earth structures, and pavement sub-grades.
    • Generate complete, accurate, and concise documentation using electronic systems, drawings, and field/work site notebook/logs.
    • Comply with safety guidelines and site-specific procedures which include but are not limited to, location data, statistical documentation, engineering studies and surveys, and construction.
    • Complete training on assigned tasks.
      Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
    • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.
Who You Are
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Geotechnical Engineering, or closely related discipline.

  • 0 to 1 years of relevant post education experience

  • Excellent research skills with analytical mindset.

  • Familiarity with process and concepts for design/build.

  • Familiarity with relevant remediation, permitting, improvement and construction laws, codes, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.

  • Competent interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to an engineering and non-engineering audience.

  • Proficient self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.

  • Ability to work independently under general supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives.

  • Basic proficiency with technical writing, office automation, software, spreadsheets, technology, and tools.

  • Familiarity with discipline-specific design software (i.e., MicroStation, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, ArcGIS, InRoads, Geopak, GeoSlope, ANSYS, STADD, HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS).

  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.

  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.

  • Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:
    • Engineer in Training Certification.
    • Prior internship related to the degree of study and the specific engineering discipline.
    • A member of and/or actively participate in local professional practice organizations.

About Us
About WSP
WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.
www.wsp.com
WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.
At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?
WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.
The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.
NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:
WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.

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