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Exploration Geologist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Field Geophysicist

Ashburn, VA

... exploration, planning, design, locating, and/or evaluation of a wide variety of sites to increase accuracy and manage project risk. Requirements: * Bachelor's degree in Geology or Geophysics. * In ...

TERRACON

Field Geophysicist

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$62K - $87K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Geology or Geophysics. * In lieu of a Bachelor's degree, 8 years of utility ... the exploration, planning, design, locating, and/or evaluation of a wide variety of sites to ...

ECS Ltd

Geotechnical Senior Project Manager

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Supervise field exploration programs and interpret geotechnical data from boring layouts, utility ... Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or Professional Geologist (PG) required; if not currently ...

ECS Ltd

Geotechnical Senior Project Engineer

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$70K - $105K/yr

Supervise field exploration programs and interpret geotechnical data from boring layouts, utility ... MS in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, Geology, or similar. The expected pay range for ...

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All JobsExploration Geologist JobsExploration Geologist Jobs in Virginia

Exploration Geologist information

See Virginia salary details

$87.7K

$218.1K

$396.6K

How much do exploration geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for exploration geologist in Virginia is $218,112.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,700.00 and $396,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are exploration geologists?

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.

How much do exploration geologists make?

Exploration geologists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry sector. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those working in remote or resource-rich areas can earn higher wages, often supplemented by bonuses and benefits.

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

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.

Are exploration geologists in demand?

Exploration geologists are in steady demand in the mining, oil, and gas industries, especially as companies seek new resource deposits. Employment opportunities depend on commodity prices, technological skills, and regional exploration activity, with fieldwork and data analysis being key components of the role.

What is the highest paid geologist?

The highest paid exploration geologists typically work in the oil and gas industry or for large mining companies, with senior roles or those in high-demand regions earning salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. Factors such as experience, specialization, and geographic location influence compensation levels for geologists in these fields.

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 does an exploration geologist do?

An exploration geologist searches for mineral, oil, or gas deposits by studying rock formations, collecting samples, and analyzing geological data. They often work in the field, using tools like GIS software and geological maps, and may need relevant certifications and safety training. Their goal is to identify promising locations for resource extraction and support the development of mining or drilling projects.
More about Exploration Geologist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Exploration Geologist jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Exploration Geologist jobs in Virginia are:
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What job categories do people searching Exploration Geologist jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Exploration Geologist jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Exploration Geologist jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Exploration Geologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Exploration Geologist jobs in VA? For Exploration Geologist jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Exploration Geologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exploration Geologist job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $218,112 per year, or $104.9 per hour.

Project Engineering Geologist

Quanta Infrastructure Solutions Group, LLC

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

About Us
QISG leverages Quanta's comprehensive resources to deliver collaborative solutions for our partners' energy infrastructure needs. We use in-house talent, expertise and resources to plan, design, engineer, manage, conduct maintenance on and construct projects.
Our turnkey service capabilities provide our customers with efficiency, consistency, attention to detail and safe execution. The QISG team brings together Engineering, Safety, Quality, Material Procurement, QA/QC, Right-of-Way Acquisition, Scheduling, Environmental Planning, Permitting, Title and Land Management expertise that ensure outstanding results for our clients.
About this Role
A Project Engineering Geologist within Quanta Infrastructure Solutions Group, LLC (QISG) is involved in a variety of geotechnical engineering projects with a focus on data collection and interpretation in support of various geo-structural design needs, emphasizing design-build delivery methods for electrical transmission and distribution projects. The Project Engineering Geologist interfaces with a multi-disciplinary engineering team consisting of civil, geotechnical, structural, and various construction management personnel. This role is primarily an office-based position with a primary focus on executing pre-construction geotechnical investigations, geologic hazard assessments, supporting foundation engineering design, and construction-phase monitoring services. Periodic fieldwork is expected. The Project Engineering Geologist will be expected to apply advanced geologic principles to solve complex problems. A successful candidate is able to utilize geologic judgement, field observations, and digital technologies such as LiDAR and GIS to assess and quantify geologic conditions and construction risk. They may also take on the role of task/field manager on more complex projects or in a lead capacity supervising professional staff. The position may also coordinate and oversee work performed by outside design consultants in the preparation and delivery of design projects.
What You'll Do
  • Geo-hazard risk analyses on long, linear corridor-type projects; take responsible charge of geologic surface mapping, rock/soil subsurface exploration programs, and geological risk analysis associated with foundation design and construction.
  • Execute assignments requiring application of standard techniques, procedures, and criteria to carry out geological engineering, hydro-geological, and geophysical engineering tasks to support foundation and retaining structure design.
  • Review and geological evaluation of available project geotechnical data and search for publicly available data related to project.
  • Provide concise technical summaries of field and laboratory data and develop complete written reports suitable for certification by a registered professional.
  • Geologic profile development specifically tailored to multiple foundation support solutions.
  • Interface closely with project-level and senior leadership personnel within the company, including geotechnical and civil engineering, GIS, and construction management teams.
  • Manage field subcontractor activities, such as geotechnical drilling and sampling, including performing occasional site visits to project sites located throughout North America.
  • Assist in training staff less experienced staff, with a focus on encouraging technological advancement and standards of consistency alike.
  • Participation in sector focused professional organizations, and attendance and presentations at industry events.
  • Work under supervision of an Engineering Director/Senior Project Geotechnical Engineer or Geologist in a professional office setting.
  • Adheres to internal standards, policies, and procedures
  • Performs special projects and completes other job-related duties as assigned

What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Geology, Engineering Geology, Geotechnical Engineering, Geophysics or related field.
  • Master's degree or continuing education in the field of geotechnical engineering preferred, engineering geology, geophysics, hydro geology or geographic information systems is ideal.
  • Professional Geologist (PG) and/or Specialty (ChG, EG) licensure with an interest to obtain licensure in multiple states.
  • Minimum four (4) years of experience in the geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, hydrogeology, mining or geophysics field.
  • Familiarity with use and application of systems such as the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS), International Society of Rock Mechanics (ISRM) rock quality scale, and other published geotechnical standard of practice.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams.
  • Familiarity with use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and associated software for collection and analysis of large geological and geotechnical data sets.

What You'll Get
QISG Benefits Highlights
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage - Multiple Medical, dental & vision plans with 100% preventive care
  • 24/7 telehealth (Teladoc)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Company-funded HSA and pre-tax savings options
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • No-cost Short- and Long-term Disability
  • Employer-paid basic Life & AD&D Insurance
  • Paid Time off (PTO) and 10 Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental leave
  • Education Reimbursement and Professional Development
  • Employee discount program and optional insurance offerings:
    • Identity Theft Protection
    • Accident Insurance
    • Voluntary Life (spouse and child)
    • Critical Illness
    • Hospital Indemnity
    • Pet Insurance

Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company's Human Resources department.

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