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Exempt Geologist Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Exempt Geologist information

See Boston, MA salary details

$39.1K

$83.7K

$135.3K

How much do exempt geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for exempt geologist in Boston, MA is $83,686.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,800.00 and $101,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an exempt geologist?

Exempt geologists are professional geologists whose job duties and salary structure qualify them to be 'exempt' from certain wage and hour laws under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This means they are not eligible for overtime pay and are typically paid on a salary basis. Exempt status is usually determined by their level of responsibility, required education, and independent decision-making authority. Exempt geologists often engage in tasks such as supervising projects, conducting complex geological studies, and preparing technical reports.

What are some typical challenges an exempt geologist might face when working on multiple projects simultaneously?

Exempt Geologists often juggle several projects at once, which can present challenges such as managing competing deadlines, adapting to varying site conditions, and maintaining clear communication with multiple stakeholders. Balancing fieldwork with reporting and analysis requires strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks efficiently. Additionally, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams—such as engineers, environmental scientists, and regulatory agencies—demands effective teamwork and flexibility to adapt to shifting project requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exempt geologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exempt Geologist, you need a solid background in earth sciences, geological mapping, and data analysis, usually supported by a relevant degree and state licensure or certification. Familiarity with GIS software, remote sensing tools, and modeling systems is essential for accurate data interpretation and reporting. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in presenting findings and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure precise geological assessments, regulatory compliance, and informed decision-making on resource management projects.

Can I be an exempt geologist without a degree?

Exempt geologists typically need a bachelor's degree in geology or a related field to qualify for the role, as education is a key requirement for licensing and employment. Without a degree, it is generally not possible to meet the standard qualifications for an exempt geologist position, which often involves professional certification and technical expertise. Experience and additional certifications may supplement education but usually do not replace the need for a formal degree.

What type of exempt geologist makes the most money?

Among exempt geologists, those specializing in petroleum geology or working in the oil and gas industry tend to earn the highest salaries due to the demand for their expertise in exploration and production. Experienced geologists with advanced certifications, such as Professional Geologist (PG) licensure, and skills in seismic interpretation or reservoir modeling often command higher pay. Salary levels also depend on geographic location, industry sector, and years of experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Geologist jobs in Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Geologist jobs in Boston, MA are:

Exempt Geologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exempt Geologist job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,686 per year, or $40.2 per hour.

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

GZA GeoEnvironmental

Norwood, MA • On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc. (GZA) is offering an opportunity for a Project Manager / Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join our Metro Boston Geotechnical team and be part of our transportation, building, energy, and infrastructure practice. We're looking for someone who thrives on technically challenging geotechnical and heavy civil projects. If you're ready to apply your professional knowledge to make a tangible impact on your community, this is your chance. This position will be based in Norwood or Amesbury, MA and involves local and regional travel.
The successful candidate will support projects through proposal, contract, and execution phases, with responsibility for the day-to-day technical delivery of work. Strong academic credentials, geotechnical engineering expertise, analytical ability, communication skills, and a collaborative mindset are essential.
Why GZA:
  • Employee-owned firm with opportunities for company stock ownership.
  • Small firm feel with a larger firm reputation and resources. Nationally recognized for providing underground engineering excellence for foundations, tunnels, dams, buried utilities, marine facilities, highways, railroads, site development and temporary underground structures.
  • Support and encouragement of ongoing professional development and enrichment
  • Mentorship and hands-on training from industry experts, with a clear path toward long-term career growth.
  • Flexible work schedule with hybrid remote work.
  • Candidate is salaried exempt technical professional eligible for annual performance bonus.
  • Generous, company-subsidized benefits package, including paid time off, paid holidays and wellness time, sick time, medical, dental, vision, and 401k retirement plan.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Managing project teams, delegating to office and field staff and executing day-to-day activities of projects.
  • Oversee and execute day-to-day technical project tasks and deliverables in accordance with QA/QC standards
  • Monitor project performance, budgets, and compliance with contractual requirements
  • Preparing proposals and reviewing/writing geotechnical deliverables with Principal guidance and review.
  • Participate in staff training and staff reviews.
  • Support GZA's "One Company" approach by assisting with tasks outside primary responsibilities as needed

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil, Geological, or Geotechnical Engineering and 8+ years of relevant professional work experience (Master's degree with Geotechnical concentration may substitute for up to 2 years).
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) required; Professional Engineer (PE) within state or ability to obtain reciprocity within 12 months preferred.
  • Demonstrated professional knowledge of geotechnical engineering; including advanced soil mechanics, site exploration and characterization, deep foundations, shallow foundations, slope stability, seismic engineering, retaining wall design, earth retention, settlement of compressible soils, ground improvement techniques, and LRFD.
  • Prior experience working on energy, DOT, and design-build projects a plus.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in the execution and successful management of projects to meet scope, schedule and budget.
  • Proficiency with MS Office and practice level knowledge of geotechnical software (e.g., SEEP/W, SLOPE/W, LPILE, GROUP, Settle 3D, WEAP, or similar); proficiency with Autodesk CAD programs is a plus
  • Strong interpersonal skills resulting in exceptional rapport with people. Proven success in initiating, promoting, and maintaining strong interpersonal relationships amongst a team.

The base salary for this position may range between $105,000-135,000. The actual base salary and total compensation will depend on many factors, including location, candidate experience, education, professional licensure, and other qualifications.
Note to Staffing Agencies: GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc. and its subsidiaries do not accept unsolicited resumes from staffing agencies, recruiting firms, or other third parties. All unsolicited resumes will be considered a gift, and GZA will not be obligated to pay a referral fee. GZA explicitly reserves the right to hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. This policy is in place to ensure we respect the relationships with our preferred vendors and avoid any potential misunderstandings
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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