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Exploration Geologist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Assistant Geologist

Colton, CA

From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration ... Bachelor's degree in Geology, Hydrogeology or related field. * Valid driver's license with ...

TERRACON

Assistant Geologist

Colton, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $34.50/hr

Bachelor's degree in Geology, Hydrogeology or related field. * Valid driver's license with ... From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration ...

AECOM

Geology Engineering Practice Leader

Orange, CA · On-site

... exploration and managing support staff required to execute investigations. * Drive and support ... California Professional Geologist (PG). * Valid US driver's License required. Preferred ...

AECOM

Geology Engineering Practice Leader

Orange, CA · On-site

... exploration and managing support staff required to execute investigations. * Drive and support ... California Professional Geologist (PG). * Valid US driver's License required. Preferred ...

AECOM

Geology Engineering Practice Leader

Orange, CA · On-site

... exploration and managing support staff required to execute investigations. * Drive and support ... California Professional Geologist (PG). * Valid US driver's License required. Preferred ...

Woolpert

Hydrographic Survey Specialist

Irvine, CA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in surveying, Geomatics, environmental science, ocean engineering, geology ... Explore a wide range of learning and growth opportunities within and across industries. * Health ...

Tetra Tech

Geoscience Drafter

Diamond Bar, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Under direct supervision from a Senior Geologist, Engineer, or Project Manager, the selected ... Explore our open positions at Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture ...

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Geoscience Drafter

Diamond Bar, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Under direct supervision from a Senior Geologist, Engineer, or Project Manager, the selected ... Explore our open positions at Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture ...

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Soils Technician

Diamond Bar, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

... Geological and Geotechnical Engineering group. Our clients include local, state, and federal ... Explore our open positions at Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture ...

Tetra Tech

Soils Technician

Diamond Bar, CA

$25 - $35/hr

... Geological and Geotechnical Engineering group. Our clients include local, state, and federal ... Explore our open positions at Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture ...

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All JobsExploration Geologist JobsExploration Geologist Jobs in Riverside, CA

Exploration Geologist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$92.3K

$229.5K

$417.3K

How much do exploration geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for exploration geologist in Riverside, CA is $229,518.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,800.00 and $417,300.00 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 popular job titles related to Exploration Geologist jobs in Riverside, CA? For Exploration Geologist jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Exploration Geologist jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Exploration Geologist jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Exploration Geologist jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Exploration Geologist job openings:
Exploration Geologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exploration Geologist job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $229,518 per year, or $110.3 per hour.

Staff Geologist-Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Certerra-RMA Group

Rancho Cucamonga, CA • On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Certerra is a growing national provider of testing, inspection, and certification services that support innovation in new product development, quality assurance, for project delivery, and engineered solutions for asset management. We are passionate about contributing to the sustainable development of the communities we serve. We are a national firm with a global reach serving national and international clients from 30+ offices located in 10 states and are ranked on ENR’s Top 500 list alongside the nation’s top firms. With a 60-year history, Certerra has a passion for high-end services, constant innovation, and investment in the development of world-class laboratory facilities, and interactive management technologies. Each member of our staff is committed to service, innovation, and the success of our clients.

Duties:

  • Assist in performing geological and geotechnical field investigations including exploratory drilling, trenching, CPTs, and other types of geologic and geotechnical field exploration.
  • Directing field personnel and subcontractors in the performance of field explorations.
  • Reviewing laboratory testing of soil samples and interpreting results, both geotechnical and environmental.
  • Writing geological investigations reports, grading reports, compaction reports, and environmental testing.

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in Geology

Certification/Licenses:

  • GIT or on track for GIT test

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. This Company is dedicated to both the letter and the spirit of the equal opportunity employment laws. All applicants and all employees will be evaluated based on their ability, competence, and performance of the essential functions of their positions. There will be no discrimination based on race, sex, national origin, religion, age 40 and over, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other classification which may be protected by federal, state, or local laws. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, we specifically offer equal opportunity for all employees or job applicants who may have a physical or mental disability. Such people will be hired based on their ability to perform the essential functions of the job in question. Likewise, their work will be evaluated on their performance of these essential functions. We will offer reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities, to the extent that Company resources allow without undue hardship. As part of our equal employment policy, there will be no wage differentials based on gender, between men and women employed in the same establishment, on jobs that require equal skill, effort, and responsibility, and which are performed under similar working conditions.