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Field Geologist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

State of Indiana

Geologist

Indianapolis, IN

$67K/yr

Lead or assist field teams during site investigations. * Offer solutions to issues/complaints using data analysis and test data. * Facilitate the creation and editing of staff reports and ...

State of Indiana

Geologist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$67K/yr

Lead or assist field teams during site investigations. * Offer solutions to issues/complaints using data analysis and test data. * Facilitate the creation and editing of staff reports and ...

Stantec

Project Geologist/Scientist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields and guide our work with ... Geologist, or Engineer to join us. Our team is growing, and we have a need for a project manager ...

Stantec

Project Geologist/Scientist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields and guide our work with ... Geologist, or Engineer to join us. Our team is growing, and we have a need for a project manager ...

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All JobsField Geologist JobsField Geologist Jobs in Indiana

Field Geologist information

See Indiana salary details

$37.6K

$58.8K

$80.4K

How much do field geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for field geologist in Indiana is $58,841.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $67,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Field Geologist, you need a solid background in geology, earth sciences, and field mapping, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in geology or a related field. Familiarity with GPS devices, GIS software, rock and soil sampling equipment, and often certifications in field safety or HAZWOPER are important. Strong observational skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication enhance performance in dynamic and sometimes remote environments. These skills and qualifications are essential for accurate data collection, analysis, and reporting, ensuring safe, effective, and scientifically sound fieldwork.

What is the difference between Field Geologist vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectField GeologistGeotechnical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Geology or Earth Sciences; often requires field experienceBachelor's in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering; often requires engineering licensure
Work EnvironmentField sites, outdoor terrain, geological formationsConstruction sites, laboratories, engineering projects
Industry UsageMining, oil & gas, environmental consultingConstruction, infrastructure, foundation design
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

Field Geologists primarily focus on studying geological formations in outdoor environments, gathering data for resource exploration or environmental assessments. In contrast, Geotechnical Engineers apply engineering principles to analyze soil and rock stability for construction projects. While both roles require earth science knowledge, their work environments and career paths differ significantly.

What field of geology makes the most money?

In geology, petroleum geologists and geophysicists working in the oil and gas industry tend to have the highest salaries due to the high demand for their expertise in exploration and production. These roles often require advanced technical skills, certifications, and experience in subsurface analysis and seismic interpretation. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and industry demand, but energy sector positions generally offer the highest compensation for geologists.

Is there a high demand for geologists?

Field geologists are in moderate demand, especially in industries such as oil and gas, mining, environmental consulting, and natural resource exploration. Employment opportunities depend on industry trends, commodity prices, and regional projects, with strong skills in data collection, analysis, and reporting being valuable for job prospects.

What Does a Field Geologist Do?

A field geologist studies the composition of the earth’s crust and works to understand the history and structure of the planet. Also known as geoscientists, field geologists study earth processes such as floods, landslides, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions and survey land to understand the changes over time. Job duties typically include mapping rock formations, collecting samples and fossils, measuring the earth, interpreting data, and writing reports. Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in geoscience, or a related field with courses in geology, as well as some field and laboratory experience. Strong communication, writing, interpersonal, and outdoor skills and physical stamina are essential because field geologists mostly work outdoors as part of a team.

What does a Field Geologist do?

A Field Geologist studies the Earth's physical properties by collecting samples, mapping geological features, and analyzing rock, soil, and mineral data in outdoor environments. They often use tools like GPS devices, geological hammers, and microscopes, and may need certifications such as OSHA safety training. Their work supports resource exploration, environmental assessment, and geological research.

What are 5 potential jobs for geology?

Field geologists can pursue various careers such as mineral exploration, environmental consulting, petroleum geology, groundwater investigation, and geotechnical engineering. These roles often require fieldwork, data analysis, and knowledge of geological tools and software. They are typically based in outdoor or site environments and may require certifications or specialized training.

What are some common challenges faced by field geologists during site investigations, and how are they typically addressed?

Field geologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and remote locations that can complicate site investigations. To address these, they conduct thorough pre-trip planning, use specialized equipment for navigation and sampling, and follow strict safety protocols. Effective teamwork and clear communication with both field and lab colleagues are essential to ensure accurate data collection and reporting, despite these obstacles. Flexibility and adaptability are key traits for success in this dynamic work environment.
More about Field Geologist jobs
What are popular job titles related to Field Geologist jobs in Indiana? For Field Geologist jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Field Geologist jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Field Geologist jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Field Geologist jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Field Geologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Field Geologist jobs in IN? For Field Geologist jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Field Geologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Field Geologist job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,841 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Geologist

State of Indiana

Indianapolis, IN

$67K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

State Of Indiana rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 50 rated states

Job description

 Work for Indiana

Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.

About the Indiana Department of Transportation: 
The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) provides a dynamic workplace that serves Indiana citizens, improves our state’s quality of life, and enhances its economic opportunity. INDOT has a number of innovative programs and projects, including Public-Private Partnerships, Green Initiatives, and cutting-edge uses of materials and assets. As part of the State of Indiana, INDOT offers a competitive total compensation package, as well as outstanding work/life balance. Whether you are an established professional in the transportation field or just starting your career, INDOT has exciting and challenging opportunities for you.

Role Overview:
The Geotechnical Engineering Geologist is required to assist the geotechnical engineers with Indiana' s geologic interpretations, maintain the state-wide geologic hazard management program, serve as technical expert for geotechnical instrumentation and supervises SPT & CPT drilling operations, including schedules for the crews and assuring that projects are done correctly and in a timely manner. Employee also inspects geotechnical consultants’ laboratories to comply with INDOT, AASHTO/ASTM procedures. Individual directly reports to the Director of Geotechnical Services Division.

Location:
This position is with INDOT’s Materials & Test department.

Salary:

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $67,314.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.

A Day in the Life:

The essential functions of this role are as follows: 

  • Provide geological consultation utilizing technical expertise regarding engineering geology, hydrogeology, and geology. 
  • Understand, interpret, and employ applicable State and Federal regulatory rules, guidance, and policies related to geological investigations and contaminant remediation. 
  • Lead or assist field teams during site investigations.  
  • Offer solutions to issues/complaints using data analysis and test data. 
  • Facilitate the creation and editing of staff reports and correspondence to ensure consistency in application of laws and regulations. 
  • Educate staff regarding implementation of geological policies and programs.  
  • Review and evaluate technical guidance documents, reports, journals, and related articles. 
  • Create internal schedules and work scopes, milestones, deliverables, and end products. 
  • Maintain organized site files and program databases. 
  • Assist in geological enforcement actions. 
  • Participate in pre-hearing conferences, provide testimony as expert witness in pre-trial depositions and hearings, and testify in administrative or court hearings. 
  • Propose revisions to existing regulations and identify new needs in agency or program operations and develop long-term strategies to deal with these new needs. 
  • Manage resources for strategy implementation. 
  • Report findings and make recommendations of building structures (including dams, bridges, highways etc.) material aggregates and soils for construction.  

These additional duties may be performed if this position is at the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) 

  • Oil & Gas exploration: Process and evaluate applications, and issue permits for all oil- and gas-related wells and county test holes. Review all processing, exploration, and applications of mine, oil wells, dams, and other related water resource structure plans to determine and ensure that the plans are accurate and meet legal and technical requirements. 
  • Water: Perform complex data analysis and interpretation to determine location and extent of underground sources of drinking water.

These additional duties may be performed if this position is at the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) 

  • Administer INDOT’s ledge and pit sampling program. Conduct and analyze the sampling tests and publish results to ensure compliance with specifications and compatibility with the uses recommended. 
  • Serve as technical expert for geotechnical instrumentation and supervise SPT & CPT drilling operations ensuring that projects are done correctly and in a timely manner. 

The job profile is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice. 
This position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours which may be required to complete essential functions or other assigned work. Exempt employees may work more than 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and must report a minimum of 75 hours per pay period of work hours and/or paid leave taken to receive their base biweekly salary.

What You'll Need for Success:

Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:

  • Must be registered as a Licensed Professional Geologist in Indiana.
  • Broad knowledge of the principles, practices, theories, and methodologies applied to geologic/hydrogeologic science and related fields. 
  • Thorough knowledge of and the ability to interpret and apply all applicable federal and state laws, environmental regulations, acts, and guidelines. 
  • Broad knowledge of applied statistics, environmental design, geologic sampling, and interpretation of geologic analysis. 
  • Thorough knowledge of remedial and corrective action as it relates to various program areas. 
  • Ability to conduct intensive research for geologic and hydrogeological advancement of the program area. 
  • Ability to determine resolutions and new approaches to various geotechnical problems. 
  • Specialized knowledge of well hydraulics, ground water modeling, drinking water management, waste and wastewater management, and related regulations.

Bachelor’s degree in Geology with an emphasis on Hydrogeology or Engineering Geology, Environmental Science, Petroleum Engineering, or a related area and Six (6) years of work experience in geology, hydrogeology, environmental management, or related fields. 

Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

You must meet the following requirements to be considered for employment with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR): 

  • Working knowledge of history and practices of the oil and gas industry, the construction of oil and gas related wells, underground injection, petroleum resource management, oil and gas related remediation, and the principles of GIS and surveying for site location. 

You must meet the following requirements to be considered for employment with the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) 

  • Knowledge of American Association of State Highway Transportation (AASHTO), American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM), Indiana Test Methods, and INDOT specifications. 
  • Advanced knowledge of, and ability to operate, geologic field instruments and construction testing equipment such as LWD, DCPT, etc. 
  • Advanced knowledge of survey and mapping techniques. 
Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.

Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:

The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes: 

  • Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
  • Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
  • Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
  • Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
  • Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
  • A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
    • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
    • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
  • Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
  • 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Group life insurance
  • Referral Bonus program
  • Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
  • Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Free Parking for most positions
  • Free LinkedIn Learning access

Equal Employment Opportunity:

The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.

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