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Exploitation Geologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nalley Consulting

Geologist - Mid

Reston, VA · On-site

Geologist LCAT: Mid Location: Reston, Virginia This position is contingent upon award. Required ... Dive deep into geologic science analysis to uncover fault exploitation opportunities * Advance ...

Nalley Consulting

Geologist - Mid

Reston, VA · On-site

Geologist LCAT: Mid Location: Reston, Virginia This position is contingent upon award. Required ... Dive deep into geologic science analysis to uncover fault exploitation opportunities * Advance ...

Nalley Consulting

Geologist - Sr

Reston, VA · On-site

Geologist LCAT: Senior Location: Reston, Virginia This position is contingent upon award. Required ... Dive deep into geologic science analysis to uncover fault exploitation opportunities * Advance ...

Nalley Consulting

Geologist - Sr

Reston, VA · On-site

Geologist LCAT: Senior Location: Reston, Virginia This position is contingent upon award. Required ... Dive deep into geologic science analysis to uncover fault exploitation opportunities * Advance ...

Radiance Technologies

Perform algorithm development for complex data exploitation processes Required Skills and Qualifications: * Bachelor's Degree (or higher) in a STEM field (Physics, Chemistry, Geology, Remote Sensing ...

Hilcorp

26-002.E - Reservoir Engineer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Identify, prioritize, present, and monitor oil and gas development and exploitation projects ... Work in an integrated team with geologists and operations engineers to mature rate and reserve add ...

Hilcorp

26-087.E - Reservoir Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Identify, prioritize, present, and monitor oil and gas development and exploitation projects ... Work in an integrated team with geologists and operations engineers to mature rate and reserve add ...

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Exploitation Geologist information

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$36K

$77K

$124.5K

How much do exploitation geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for exploitation geologist in the United States is $77,030.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $93,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are exploitation geologists?

Exploitation geologists are professionals who specialize in evaluating and developing mineral or energy resources, such as oil, gas, or minerals. They analyze geological data to identify the most efficient and cost-effective ways to extract resources from the earth. Their work often includes creating detailed geological models, planning drilling or mining operations, and ensuring that extraction methods are environmentally responsible. Exploitation geologists collaborate closely with engineers, project managers, and other specialists to maximize resource recovery while minimizing costs and environmental impact.

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

To thrive as an Exploitation Geologist, you need a solid background in geology, mineral resource estimation, and mining engineering, usually backed by a degree in geology or a related field. Proficiency with geological modeling software (such as Surpac, Leapfrog, or Micromine) and knowledge of mining industry standards or certifications (like AusIMM or SME) are typical requirements. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in interpreting data and working with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for accurately evaluating mineral resources, optimizing extraction methods, and ensuring both operational efficiency and safety in mining projects.

How does an Exploitation Geologist typically collaborate with mining engineers and other team members during resource development projects?

Exploitation Geologists work closely with mining engineers, metallurgists, and planning teams to ensure that geological data is accurately integrated into mine design and extraction strategies. They are responsible for interpreting geological models, providing input on ore body distribution, and advising on optimal extraction methods to maximize resource recovery while minimizing costs and environmental impact. Regular communication and joint planning sessions are common, allowing the team to adapt to new findings and operational challenges throughout the project lifecycle.

What is the salary for exploration geologists?

Exploration geologists typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry sector. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in resource-rich regions.

Are exploration geologists in demand?

Exploration geologists are in steady demand due to ongoing need for mineral and energy resource discovery, especially in mining, oil, and gas industries. Employment opportunities depend on commodity prices, technological advancements, and environmental regulations, with skills in GIS, sampling, and data analysis being valuable. Job prospects are generally favorable for those with field experience and relevant certifications.

What is the difference between Exploitation Geologist vs Exploration Geologist?

AspectExploitation GeologistExploration Geologist
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Geology or related field; often requires field experienceBachelor's or Master's in Geology; focus on fieldwork and mineral deposits
Work EnvironmentActive mining sites, underground or open-pit operationsProspecting areas, remote field locations, survey sites
Industry UsageMining companies, resource extraction firmsExploration companies, mineral prospecting firms
Job FocusDeveloping and managing existing mineral deposits for extractionIdentifying new mineral deposits and prospects

Exploitation Geologists focus on developing and managing existing mineral resources, working directly at mining sites. Exploration Geologists, on the other hand, concentrate on discovering new deposits through field surveys and sampling. Both roles require geology credentials and field experience but differ in their primary objectives and work environments.

What is the highest paying geologist job?

The highest paying geology-related roles are often in exploration geology, petroleum geology, or geotechnical engineering, especially for senior or specialized positions in the oil and gas industry. These roles typically require advanced technical skills, industry certifications, and extensive experience, with salaries significantly higher than entry-level positions.

What does an exploration geologist do?

An exploration geologist searches for mineral and hydrocarbon deposits by analyzing geological data, conducting field surveys, and using tools like GIS and geophysical equipment. They interpret rock formations, assess resource potential, and often work in remote environments, requiring strong analytical skills and knowledge of geology and mapping techniques.
More about Exploitation Geologist jobs
What job categories do people searching Exploitation Geologist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Exploitation Geologist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Exploitation Geologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,030 per year, or $37 per hour.

Geologist - Mid

Nalley Consulting

Reston, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Position: Geologist
LCAT: Mid
Location: Reston, Virginia
This position is contingent upon award.
Required clearance: TS/SCI with willingness to take CI poly. Candidates with current CI poly taken within the past seven years will be prioritized.
Required experience: At least 5 years
Required education: Bachelor's degree in Geoscience, Geophysics, Hydrogeology, and 5+ years of experience
Description
Nalley Consulting has an outstanding opportunity for a Geologist to support on-going research and development efforts and develop new business in technologies for functional characterization of WMD facilities and their associated design.
Join us as a Geologist and become a key player in characterizing large-scale and small-scale industrial, commercial, and institutional projects. If you thrive on tackling complex challenges and driving innovation in reverse engineering structural processes, this is the opportunity you've been waiting for.
The successful candidate will:
    • Characterize the structure of WMD facilities, some of which are clandestine
    • Conduct reverse engineering
    • Design and calculate precise load calculations, system sizing, and performance predictions
    • Create and refine detailed technical drawings and schematics
    • Spearhead projects from vision to reality, delivering on time and within budget
    • Collaborate seamlessly with project managers, architects, and contractors
    • Present compelling project reports and updates to stakeholders
    • Dive deep into geologic science analysis to uncover fault exploitation opportunities
    • Advance reverse engineering capabilities
    • Foster a collaborative, innovative, and continuous learning environment
    • Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies
Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Geology or similar
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively within or lead a team of peers, as well as excellent interpersonal and communications skills
  • Ability to communicate highly technical analyses at a level comprehensible to laymen and senior-level government representatives
  • Ability to clearly express in writing technical analysis results
  • Practical experience in geology
  • Research and Development of new tools and methodologies to understand and reverse engineer processes and support systems at remote WMD-related facilities
Other desired skills:
  • Demonstrated ability writing ICD 203 and ICD 206-compliant finished intelligence production
  • 7 years of experience in solving DoD engineering/science problems
  • Military or defense-related experience and an understanding of operational planning and functional defeat of hard targets and underground facilities
  • Experience conducting analyses of hard and deeply buried underground facilities and the surrounding geology under applied loads, environmental conditions, and weapons effects.
  • Experience examining seismic, electrical, or electromagnetics data to characterize underground facilities and hard and deeply buried targets.

ABOUT NALLEY CONSULTING
Nalley Consulting is a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business working with prime partners to staff Department of Defense and Intelligence Community positions. Created by a U.S. Navy intelligence veteran, Nalley Consulting has grown to include multiple IDIQ vehicles in several states.
Nalley Consulting fringe benefits include:
  • Excellent medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • PTO
  • 11 paid federal holidays
  • Tuition assistance
  • Paid military-reserve leave
  • Paid parental leave for birth or adoption
  • 401k matching up to 5 percent of the base salary
  • Flex time
  • Company-paid short-term disability, long-term disability, and life insurance.

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