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Field Geologist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Arcadis is seeking an entry-level Field Geologist or Environmental Scientist to join our team in Richmond, VA. While this position requires both field and office work, the candidate should expect to ...

Arcadis is seeking an entry-level Field Geologist or Environmental Scientist to join our team in Richmond, VA. While this position requires both field and office work, the candidate should expect to ...

Bachelor's degree in Geology or Geophysics. * In lieu of a Bachelor's degree, 8 years of utility ... Performs site visits, field observations and field data collection or assignments. * Assists in ...

Field Geophysicist

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$62K - $87K/yr

Performs site visits, field observations and field data collection or assignments. * Assists in ... Bachelor's degree in Geology or Geophysics. * In lieu of a Bachelor's degree, 8 years of utility ...

The position will require travel and fieldwork generally located in Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, and Virginia. Essential Duties: * Manage and perform engineering geology assignments involving ...

Geologist I

Reston, VA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Job Title: Geologist I Location: Reston, VA Description/Job Summary POSITION DESCRIPTION HGL ... Ensuring field operations are conducted in a safe manner in accordance with project specific Site ...

Field work will include soil and groundwater sampling, drilling, and the office work includes ... Bachelor's degree in Geology or related science * 2+ years of post-graduation relevant experience ...

Field work will include soil and groundwater sampling, drilling, and the office work includes ... Bachelor's degree in Geology or related science * 2+ years of post-graduation relevant experience ...

Field work will include soil and groundwater sampling, drilling, and the office work includes ... Bachelor's degree in Geology or related science * 2+ years of post-graduation relevant experience ...

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Showing results 1-20

Field Geologist information

See Virginia salary details

$39.2K

$61.3K

$83.8K

How much do field geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for field geologist in Virginia is $61,306.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,600.00 and $70,400.00 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 type of field geologist makes the most money?

Specialized field geologists such as petroleum geologists or exploration geologists tend to earn the highest salaries due to the technical expertise and industry demand. They often work in the oil and gas industry, requiring advanced knowledge of subsurface geology and often holding advanced degrees or certifications. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and industry sector.

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 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.

Are field geologists in high demand?

Field geologists are in steady demand due to ongoing needs in resource exploration, environmental assessment, and natural hazard analysis. Employment opportunities often depend on industry activity, geographic location, and the ability to work in remote or challenging environments, with skills in GIS and geological mapping being valuable.

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.
What job categories do people searching Field Geologist jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Field Geologist jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Field Geologist jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Field Geologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Field Geologist jobs in VA? For Field Geologist jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Field Geologist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,306 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Field Geologist

Arcadis

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Arcadis rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

113th of 443 rated engineering


Job description

Arcadis is the world's leading company delivering sustainable design, engineering, and consultancy solutions for natural and built assets.
We are more than 34,000 people, in over 30 countries, dedicated to improving quality of life. Everyone has an important role to play. With the power of many curious minds, together we can solve the world's most complex challenges and deliver more impact together.
Role description:
Arcadis is seeking an entry-level Field Geologist or Environmental Scientist to join our team in Richmond, VA. While this position requires both field and office work, the candidate should expect to spend up to 80% of their time in the field.
You will have the opportunity to join a dedicated team in Richmond, VA that prioritizes mentorship and your professional growth. The team is committed to supporting your success and providing guidance as you navigate your role.
As part of our Resilience Environment team, you'll help improve quality of life.
Role accountabilities:
As part of this role, you will be responsible for assisting Project Managers (PMs) and Task Managers (TMs) in planning and executing environmental site characterization, investigation, and remediation tasks.
Fieldwork will also be a key aspect of this position, which will offer you an opportunity to be trained to oversee drilling for soil sampling and groundwater well installation, groundwater sampling, subcontractor oversight, operation and maintenance of remediation systems, vapor intrusion/soil gas surveys, among other tasks. It is essential to conduct fieldwork with a focus on health and safety.
Your core duties will include:
  • Prepare subcontracts and oversee the work of subcontractors.
  • Writing and preparing technical reports, work plans, letters, and memoranda
  • Office work may include task coordination, data compilation and interpretation, cost estimates, health & safety plan preparation, report writing, regulatory file reviews, proposal writing, project strategy development, schedule and budget management, and establishment of subcontracts.
  • Conduct field work including soil, groundwater, and/or vapor sampling in the field. Field work will require regional business travel.. A few times per year, travel will be required within the U.S. for multiple weeks at a time. Field work could also include incident response recovery (IRR).

To be successful in this role, you should possess strong written and oral communication skills, be self-motivated, and exhibit independent thinking. You should be able to work effectively and efficiently in a team setting as well as independently and remotely. Successful candidates will demonstrate their ability to be adaptable, creative problem solvers who can work collaboratively as a team member.
In summary, this position encompasses both office work (task management, data analysis, report preparation, scope preparation, and client communications) as well as field work.
Fieldwork will also be a key aspect of this position, which will offer you an opportunity to be trained to oversee drilling for soil sampling and groundwater well installation, groundwater sampling, subcontractor oversight, operation and maintenance of remediation systems, vapor intrusion/soil gas surveys, among other tasks. Additionally, Arcadis supports many of our client's needs when unforeseen incidents occur, such as train derailments, pipeline releases, etc. An aspect of this role is supporting our Mid-Atlantic and National emergency response teams to ensure rapid protection of human health and the environment. This work is completed under the direction of trained incident responders and may require unanticipated travel and work outside standard business hours.
Field work will require regional business travel for up to 1-2 days per week on average. A few times per year, travel will be required within the U.S. for up to two weeks at a time. Estimated travel is up to 50% during the first two years, with travel reduced with career growth. By the third year, travel for field work is typically 25%. Travel expenses are reimbursable. A valid driver's license is required for the role.
Qualifications & Experience:
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's of Science in Geology, Hydrogeology, or closely related field (i.e., environmental science, physical science)

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master of Science degree in Geology or closely related field
  • Current OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER training

Why Arcadis?
We can only achieve our goals when everyone is empowered to be their best. We believe everyone's contribution matters. It's why we are pioneering a skills-based approach, where you can harness your unique experience and expertise to carve your career path and maximize the impact we can make together.
You'll do meaningful work, and no matter what role, you'll be helping to deliver sustainable solutions for a more prosperous planet. Make your mark, on your career, your colleagues, your clients, your life and the world around you.
Together, we can create a lasting legacy.
Join Arcadis. Create a Legacy.
Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging
We want you to be able to bring your best self to work every day. Our ambition is to be an employer of choice and provide a great place to work for all our people. We are an equal opportunity employer. We are dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in employment on any basis including race, creed, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status, disability, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law.
disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status, disability, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law.
Arcadis offers benefits for full time and part time positions. These benefits include medical, dental, and vision, EAP, 401K, STD, LTD, AD&D, life insurance, paid parental leave, reward & recognition program and optional benefits including wellbeing benefits, adoption assistance and tuition reimbursement. We offer nine paid holidays and 15 days PTO that accrue per year. The salary range for this position is $55,200- $82,800. Actual salaries will vary and are based on several factors, such as experience, education, budget, internal equity, project and location.
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About Arcadis

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our work with clients has a direct impact on people's lives and on the planet. We make moving, living and belonging in cities safer, more resilient and more sustainable. By partnering with our clients as responsible custodians of our earth's resources, we can create a sustainable planet. We continue to think of new ways to make positive impacts and create better experiences for people; data driven and digital solutions have become part of the Arcadis DNA. Working together with clients and using techniques like design thinking, we can get to the heart of our clients' most pressing challenges and work together to solve them.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Highlands Ranch, CO, US