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Explorer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include auger drilling, mud rotary drilling ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include; auger drilling, mud rotary drilling ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$26.75 - $37.50/hr

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include; auger drilling, mud rotary drilling ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$30.25 - $42.25/hr

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include; auger drilling, mud rotary drilling ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include; auger drilling, mud rotary drilling ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include auger drilling, mud rotary drilling ...

KBR

Sr. Director, Business Development

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Program Summary KBR's Exploration & Logistics (E&L) business unit delivers mission-critical solutions supporting global defense, federal civilian, logistics, engineering, and space exploration ...

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How much do explorer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for explorer in Virginia is $15.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.39 and $15.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an explorer?

Explorers are individuals who travel to unknown or less-known places to discover new lands, cultures, resources, or scientific information. Historically, explorers played a key role in mapping the world and expanding human knowledge about geography, biodiversity, and different civilizations. Today, explorers can be scientists, adventurers, or researchers working in diverse fields such as oceanography, space, or archaeology. Their work often involves overcoming challenging environments and contributing valuable insights to our understanding of the planet and beyond.

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

To thrive as an Explorer, you need strong navigation, survival, and research skills, often supported by training in wilderness survival, geography, or environmental science. Familiarity with GPS devices, mapping software, and outdoor equipment is typically required. Adaptability, problem-solving, and resilience are crucial soft skills for overcoming unpredictable challenges. These skills are essential for ensuring safety, effective exploration, and successful data collection in remote or unfamiliar environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by professional explorers in the field?

Professional explorers often encounter unpredictable weather conditions, difficult terrain, and limited access to resources while on expeditions. Adapting quickly to new environments, problem-solving under pressure, and maintaining strong communication with the team are essential to overcoming these hurdles. Additionally, explorers must be prepared for extended periods away from home and possess a high level of physical and mental resilience to thrive in remote or extreme locations.

What is the difference between Explorer vs Geologist?

AspectExplorerGeologist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; field experienceBachelor's degree in geology or related field; often advanced degrees
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in remote or outdoor locationsFieldwork and laboratory settings, offices
Industry UsageExplorers are often employed in resource exploration, adventure tourism, or researchGeologists work in mining, oil & gas, environmental consulting, academia

Explorers typically focus on discovering new areas or resources through fieldwork, often in remote locations, while geologists analyze Earth's materials and processes, working both in the field and labs. Both roles require field experience, but geologists usually have formal degrees and work in more specialized settings.

What are popular job titles related to Explorer jobs in Virginia?

For Explorer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Explorer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Explorer jobs in Virginia are:

Explorer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Explorer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,474 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

TERRACON

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 72 rated business consultants

People enjoy working here

Good employer

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Learn more about TERRACONexternal

$22.25 - $31.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description


Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include auger drilling, mud rotary drilling, air rotary drilling, and diamond bit coring techniques. In-situ testing techniques may include cone penetration testing (CPT), pressure meter testing, and rock dilatometer testing. Work may also include the installation of instrumentation such as piezometers, monitor wells and inclinometers. Work as part of a multiple person team on projects. ETMs will perform daily tasks including survey and locate drilling points; conduct site reconnaissance; load/unload tooling, materials and samples; classify soil and rock samples; perform routine maintenance and basic repairs on drilling equipment, prepare internal (daily field forms) and external (DOT Logs) paperwork.
Responsibilities
The employee will be expected to perform the following tasks:
  • Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance shallow boreholes in soil.
  • Oversee a 2-man drill crew in all tasks associated with drilling operations.
  • Install instrumentation and monitoring wells.
  • Perform routine repairs and maintenance.
  • Perform basic surveying, site reconnaissance, and utility clearance tasks.
  • Drive all forms of drilling equipment to and from project locations.
  • Work to independently inspect and complete routine maintenance of equipment.
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum 1-year experience.
  • A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history may be required.
    • Preferred Qualifications:
  • Many states require specific driller/well installation licensure. Where applicable, such licensure is required.
    • Required Qualifications:
  • Ability to obtain a DOT Medical Card within first 30 days of employment.

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