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Exploration Geologist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Hydrogeologist

Ashland, VA · On-site

$73K - $105K/yr

... groundwater exploration, water supply planning, and water conservation and management planning ... Bachelor's or advanced degree in Geology or related geosciences field. * Minimum of 5 years of ...

$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 ...

Hydrogeologist

Ashland, VA · On-site

$64K - $81K/yr

... groundwater exploration, water supply planning, and water conservation and management planning ... Bachelor's or advanced degree in Geology or related geosciences field. * Minimum of 5 years of ...

Hydrogeologist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$67K - $86K/yr

... groundwater exploration, water supply planning, and water conservation and management planning ... Bachelor's or advanced degree in Geology or related geosciences field. * Minimum of 5 years of ...

Water/Wastewater Leader

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$76K - $104K/yr

We are committed to exploring new capabilities, emerging technologies and opportunities that will help create future growth. We are engineers, architects, planners, scientists, geologists and ...

Water/Wastewater Leader

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$74K - $102K/yr

We are committed to exploring new capabilities, emerging technologies and opportunities that will help create future growth. We are engineers, architects, planners, scientists, geologists and ...

Showing results 21-40

Exploration Geologist information

See Virginia salary details

$87.7K

$218.1K

$396.6K

How much do exploration geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 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 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Exploration Geologist jobs in Virginia are:
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:
Infographic showing various Exploration Geologist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $218,112 per year, or $104.9 per hour.

Geotechnical Senior Project Engineer

ECS Ltd

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description


Responsibilities

ECS Limited is seeking an experienced Geotechnical Senior Project Engineer to manage key client projects in our Charlottesville office. In this role, you will lead project execution, provide technical oversight, ensure quality control, and mentor junior staff.

Responsibilities:

  • Oversee full lifecycle of geotechnical engineering projects.
  • Develop project scopes, budgets, schedules, and plans.
  • Perform geotechnical analysis and engineering calculations.
  • Supervise field exploration programs and interpret geotechnical data from boring layouts, utility clearances, and laboratory tests.
  • Perform technical review of engineering designs, drawings, plans, and specifications.
  • Provide coaching and guidance to junior engineers and project managers.
  • Assist with business development efforts through community involvement and client engagement.
  • Promote company values, positive culture, and high employee engagement.
#LI-JG1
Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • 5+ years of experience in geotechnical engineering.
  • Strong technical aptitude and knowledge of geotechnical principles.
  • Excellent project management and communication skills.
  • Experience leading and developing engineering teams.
  • Knowledge of industry standards and safety regulations.
  • Business development experience.

Required Education & Certifications:

  • BS in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, Geology, or similar.
  • Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) required.

Preferred Education & Certifications:

  • MS in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, Geology, or similar.

Military Qualifications

  • The following US Military ranks will qualify for this position IF they also meet the education and licenses requirements from the above section titled "Required Qualifications":
    • E-7

The expected pay range for this role and location is $75k - $95k/year. The final agreed-upon compensation will be determined based on specific location and other individual qualifications.


About Us

ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and facilities consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,000 employees in 100+ offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) and #50 in Zweig Group’s Hot Firm List (May 2025). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, click here.

Qualifications:

ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and facilities consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,000 employees in 100+ offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) and #50 in Zweig Group’s Hot Firm List (May 2025). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, click here.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME