1

Exploration Geologist Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration ... Bachelor's degree in Geology, Hydrogeology or related field and a minimum of 1 year related ...

Field Geologist

Portland, OR · On-site

$57K - $80K/yr

Developing level Geologist/ Hydrogeologist responsible for conducting analyses of component ... From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration ...

Hydrologist / Geologist

John Day, OR · On-site +1

$74K - $97K/yr

Apply geologic principles to methods of prospecting, exploration, development, and mining and their ... Degree: geology, plus 20 additional semester hours in any combination of mathematics, physics ...

If you answered Yes, come "Explore with us" and start your journey as a Senior Geologist in our Portland Oregon office! This position is based out of our Portland, OR office and will work closely ...

$18 - $22.75/hr

Information we will be capturing will include Icelandic culture, history, geography, geology ... We are currently looking for interns with a positive attitude and a desire to explore and learn ...

$18 - $22.75/hr

Information we will be capturing will include Icelandic culture, history, geography, geology ... We are currently looking for interns with a positive attitude and a desire to explore and learn ...

$17 - $21.50/hr

Information we will be capturing will include Icelandic culture, history, geography, geology ... We are currently looking for interns with a positive attitude and a desire to explore and learn ...

GRI is an employee-owned, full-service geotechnical, pavement, geological, and environmental ... Perform and manage field explorations. * Manage and coordinate work with drilling subcontractors.

GRI is an employee-owned, full-service geotechnical, pavement, geological, and environmental ... Perform and manage field explorations.Manage and coordinate work with drilling subcontractors.

... geological and cultural heritage. The area is distinguished by the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and the John Day River, which winds through the surrounding terrain. Visitors may explore the ...

If you answered Yes, come "Explore with us" and start your journey as a Senior Geologist in our Portland Oregon office! This position is based out of our Portland, OR office and will work closely ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Exploration Geologist information

See Oregon salary details

$93.6K

$232.6K

$422.9K

How much do exploration geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for exploration geologist in Oregon is $232,602.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,100.00 and $422,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an exploration geologist?

Exploration geologists are professionals who search for natural resources such as minerals, oil, and gas beneath the Earth’s surface. They use a combination of fieldwork, geological mapping, sampling, and advanced technology to identify areas with resource potential. Their work is essential in determining where companies should invest in drilling or mining. Exploration geologists interpret geological data, assess the economic viability of sites, and often work in remote or challenging environments.

What do exploration geologists do?

An exploration geologist works with, or for, natural resource companies to help them find and procure resources, such as minerals and natural gas. As an exploration geologist, your responsibilities include conducting geologic surveys, collecting and analyzing data using various pieces of scientific equipment. Using that information, you make recommendations regarding resource extraction, like mining, drilling, and fracking. You may also generate reports for government agencies, such as the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). Your job duties vary from one site to the next, depending on the needs of the project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exploration geologist?

To excel as an Exploration Geologist, you need a background in geology or earth sciences, strong fieldwork capabilities, and analytical skills, usually supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with GIS software, geochemical analysis tools, and geological modeling systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you interpret data effectively and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. These skills are essential for accurately identifying mineral resources and supporting successful exploration projects.

What are some typical challenges an exploration geologist faces when working in the field?

Exploration Geologists often encounter challenges such as working in remote or rugged environments, adapting to changing weather conditions, and ensuring personal safety while conducting fieldwork. They must also efficiently manage logistical aspects like transporting equipment and samples, and accurately collect and interpret geological data under time constraints. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and effective communication with stakeholders are essential to overcome these challenges and achieve project goals.
What are the most commonly searched types of Exploration Geologist jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Exploration Geologist jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Exploration Geologist jobs in Oregon? For Exploration Geologist jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Exploration Geologist jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Exploration Geologist jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Exploration Geologist jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Exploration Geologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Exploration Geologist jobs in OR? For Exploration Geologist jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Exploration Geologist job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $232,602 per year, or $111.8 per hour.

Engineering Geologist (Limited Duration) (Rotational Opportunity - State Employees Only)

State of Oregon

Roseburg, OR • On-site

$6.7K - $10K/mo

Full-time

PTO

Posted 13 days ago


State Of Oregon rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 50 rated states


Job description

Initial Posting Date:
07/31/2026
Application Deadline:
08/17/2026
Agency:
Department of Transportation
Salary Range:
$6,717 - $10,414
Position Type:
Employee
Position Title:
Engineering Geologist (Limited Duration) (Rotational Opportunity - State Employees Only)
Job Description:
Professional Geologist 1 - Engineering Geologist
Oregon Department of Transportation
Delivery & Operations Division - Engineering & Technical Services Branch
Geotechnical Engineering, Engineering Geology & HazMat Section / Mountain Project Delivery Unit
Roseburg
The role:
If you're looking for a position that will develop and challenge your geology skills, then look no further! Join our Roseburg office as an engineering geologist! In this on-site role, you will play an essential role in monitoring the geologic hazards that impact roadway safety. You will also become part of a team of professionals dedicated to keeping our roadway systems operational and safe for the traveling public.
In this position, you will work in person on transportation projects throughout the Klamath mountain geologic province, western cascades and the Oregon coast range. With a vital transportation corridor (U.S. 101), a major north-south connector (Interstate 5), separating the region, ancient landforms and heavy rainfall, there's no shortage of exciting geology work in this position! Apply today!
We provide a safe and reliable multimodal transportation system that connects people and helps Oregon's communities and economy thrive. We encourage people from all backgrounds and abilities to apply for our positions.
This is a limited duration appointment that is expected to end on or before September 30, 2027Limited duration appointments are benefits eligible and have a designated maximum length of service. The limited duration appointment has the potential to become permanent.
We may also fill this position as a rotational assignment open to current State of Oregon employees. Rotation candidates are required to meet the position's minimum qualifications. Rotational assignments do not have the potential to become permanent without a separate competitive recruitment process. You must have your manager's approval before applying for this assignment.
Our first application screening is scheduled for 8 a.m. on Monday, August 17, 2026. We encourage interested applicants not to delay in applying.
Before applying, visit our applicant information website to learn more about our process. If you are a current State of Oregon employee, you must apply through your employee Workday profile
A day in the life:
  • Assist in planning, directing, scheduling and creating designs for major projects.
  • Write, review and professionally seal comprehensive final engineering geology reports.
  • Develop plans, specifications and estimates for transportation projects involving bridges, high seismic risk zones, landslide stabilization, rock fall, embankments, cut slopes and material source development.
  • Partner with the geotechnical engineer to develop an appropriate subsurface exploration program.
  • Develop, oversee, interpret and report on geologic investigations and hazards for transportation projects.
  • Develop project schedules, scopes of work, budgets, and contract documents for exploration, remediation and hazardous material disposal services.
  • Act as a representative on large, multidisciplinary project delivery teams for complex projects.
  • Respond to emergency geologic hazards and help with investigations, analysis, modelling and quarry management.
  • Provide recommendations for unstable rock cuts and steep slopes and implement strategies.
  • Evaluate geologic data with computer models to determine the depth and rate of landslide movement.
  • Work is performed at least 50% of the time in the field with frequent travel required - overnight travel and lodging will be required at times, occasionally for extended periods.
  • Geologic hazard emergency response may require overtime, weekend and evening work with little or no advance notification.
  • Duties involve exposure to traffic and construction hazards and working in all weather conditions and remote locations.
  • Lift and carry weight up to 40 pounds on uneven ground when working at drilling operations and when sampling material sources.
  • To request a copy of the position description, which includes all duties and working conditions, please email ODOTRecruitment@odot.oregon.gov

What's in it for you:
  • Work/life balance, 11 paid holidays a year, flexible work schedules, paid leave and so much more. Learn more about working at the Oregon Department of Transportation and the benefits we offer.
  • Comprehensive and equitable base salary offer within the listed range. Through an equal pay assessment, we will determine the salary offer using the information you provide in your submitted application materials. Please ensure your application materials are detailed, accurate and reflect your skills, experience (paid and unpaid) and education as they relate to the position when applying.
  • The salary range listed is the non-PERS monthly salary range. If you are already a participating PERS member or once you become PERS eligible, the salary range will increase by 6%.
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness opportunity!

Want to know about new job postings? Subscribe to receive weekly email notifications!
Minimum qualifications:
A Certified Engineering Geologist (CEG) license from the Oregon State Board of Geologist Examiners.
Note: If registered in another state the successful applicant will be required to obtain professional registration in Oregon within one year of hire. It is the applicant's responsibility to contact the Oregon State Board of Geologist Examiners for information to become licensed in Oregon.
Special qualifications:
Driving is an essential function of this position. You must have a valid U.S. driver license and an acceptable driving record. We will conduct pre-employment driving records checks on our final candidate(s). Your license does not have to be issued in Oregon to be considered.
What we'd like to see:
If you have these attributes, let us know in your application materials! It's how we will choose whom to move forward! You do not need to have all these qualities to be eligible for this position. We may also use transferable skills, experience and education to help us decide who will move forward.
  • Experience communicating with a variety of people verbally and in writing.
  • Experience evaluating and compiling data and writing reports.
  • Experience in landslide mitigation.
  • Experience performing transportation related geology work.

How to apply:
  • Complete the following required steps:
    • Fill out the application or attach a resume. Please contact the recruiter under the 'Need help?' section if you have any questions about how to fill out the experience fields or to attach a document. Your submitted experience fields or attached resume must include dates (MM/YYYY) for each employer.
    • Complete questionnaire. Answer the checkbox-style questions before submitting your application.
  • After you submit your application, please respond to the public records request authorization and gender identity questionnaire. This screen will come after you submit and will complete the process. If you are a current State of Oregon employee, the tasks will come to your Workday inbox.
  • If you are a veteran or Oregon National Guard servicemember, you may receive preference. The task to upload your documents will be available after you submit your application. For privacy reasons, please do not attach your military service document(s) to your application or combine it with any other required document attachments.

Need help?
  • For questions, call 971-273-8687 or email ODOTRecruitmentEM@odot.oregon.gov.

Additional information:
  • Rotation Details: Applies only to rotation candidates (current State of Oregon employees applying for this as a rotational assignment).
    • This opportunity is scheduled to last until September 30, 2027, but could change based on business needs.
    • Rotational candidates must meet the position's minimum qualifications to be considered. The successful candidate may be eligible for work out of class compensation within this classification's salary range.
    • You must have your manager's approval before applying for this opportunity. You may submit their written approval with your application materials or, if selected for interview, bring it to your interview.
    • You must be a current permanent State of Oregon employee in good standing (temporary and limited duration employees are not eligible) to apply.
    • The successful candidate will remain eligible for cost-of-living increases and regular salary adjustments, as applicable, and will remain in their permanent classification, salary range and representation.
    • Relocation will not be paid. Employee will return to their permanent position upon completion of this assignment. However, the assignment can be terminated at any time without prejudice by the sending manager, receiving manager and/or employee.
  • This recruitment will remain open until filled. Our first application screening is scheduled for 8 a.m. on Monday, August 17, 2026, but we may close the announcement at any time after this date when we have received an adequate number of applications. We cannot guarantee that we will consider applications received after this screening date. We encourage interested applicants not to delay in applying.
  • We do not offer visa sponsorship. If you are hired, you will be required to fill out the US Department of Homeland Security's I-9 form confirming you are able to work in the US. We are not an E-Verify participating employer, and we are unable to proceed if E-Verify participation is required [e.g., STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) Extension].
  • The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an education institution during the application process.
  • We may use this recruitment to fill multiple or future vacancies.
  • We will conduct name-based criminal background checks on final candidates, not including current ODOT employees. All applicants may be subject to additional pre-employment check(s) such as driver license, LEDS (Law Enforcement Data System), and/or education verification as required for the position.
  • You will be represented by the Association of Engineering Employees of Oregon (AEE).

ODOT is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation or any other class protected by state or federal laws in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring, and employment practices. Applicants with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation during the application process. For questions, concerns, or complaints regarding EEO/AA/ADA, contact 1-877-336-6368 (1-877-EEO-ODOT). This information can be made available in an alternative format by contacting ODOT Recruitment at 503-986-3700. Oregon Relay Service can be reached by calling 7-1-1.
#LI-ODOT
#LI-POST
#LI-Onsite
Geologist, Geology, Project Delivery, Government Jobs

What State Of Oregon employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


State of Oregon logo

About State of Oregon

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Not a traditional company, the State of Oregon is a governmental entity that serves the citizens of Oregon, United States. Based in the capital city of Salem, its industry spans a wide range of public services from health care, education, and transportation, to natural resources, housing, and public safety. Founded with the admission of Oregon to the Union in 1859, it operates on the judicious use of finite resources to enhance the quality of life for present and future generation. Its primary mission is to serve the public through their core values of integrity, accountability, excellence, and equity.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Salem, OR, US

Year founded

1859

Social media