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Field Geology Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Elementary Teacher

Rochester, NY · On-site

$50K - $64.70K/yr

You'll teach a Science curriculum that prioritizes knowledge of geology, astronomy, ecology, and ... fields of study. * Prior to the start of employment, you must have a bachelor's degree from an ...

Elementary Teacher

Rochester, NY · On-site

$50K - $64.70K/yr

You'll teach a Science curriculum that prioritizes knowledge of geology, astronomy, ecology, and ... fields of study. * Prior to the start of employment, you must have a bachelor's degree from an ...

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Field Geology information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$39K

$61K

$83.4K

How much do field geology jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for field geology in Rochester, NY is $61,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,300.00 and $70,100.00 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 earth sciences, geological mapping, and data analysis, typically supported by a relevant degree in geology or earth science. Familiarity with GIS software, GPS devices, rock and soil sampling tools, and sometimes certifications like OSHA HAZWOPER are commonly required. Strong observational skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting field data and collaborating with diverse teams. These competencies are crucial for accurately assessing geological sites, ensuring safety, and delivering reliable scientific insights for research or industry projects.

What are some common challenges field geologists face while working on remote sites, and how can they prepare for them?

Field geologists often work in remote or rugged locations, which can present challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to resources. To prepare, it's important to plan logistics thoroughly, ensure proper safety training, and carry reliable equipment. Building strong teamwork and communication skills is also essential, as fieldwork often requires close collaboration with colleagues to gather data efficiently and respond to unexpected conditions. Staying adaptable and proactive helps field geologists overcome obstacles and maintain productivity in diverse environments.

What is field geology?

Field geology is the study of the Earth's materials, structures, and processes by direct observation and data collection in natural environments. Field geologists visit various sites to map rock formations, collect samples, analyze geological features, and record observations. Their work is essential for understanding Earth's history, assessing natural hazards, discovering resources, and supporting environmental management. Fieldwork often requires physical endurance, attention to detail, and the use of specialized tools and technology. The insights gained from field geology help inform research, industry, and policy decisions.

What is the difference between Field Geology vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectField GeologyGeotechnical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Geology or Earth Sciences; often requires field experienceBachelor's in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering; often requires engineering licensure
Work EnvironmentOutdoor field sites, geological surveys, rock and soil samplingLaboratories, construction sites, design offices, field investigations
Industry UsageMining, oil & gas, environmental consulting, geological mappingConstruction, infrastructure projects, foundation design, soil stability analysis

Field Geology focuses on studying Earth's materials directly in the field, conducting surveys and sampling. Geotechnical Engineers apply engineering principles to analyze soil and rock properties for construction and infrastructure projects. While both roles involve earth materials, Field Geologists primarily gather data, whereas Geotechnical Engineers interpret data for engineering solutions.

Infographic showing various Field Geology job openings in Rochester, NY as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,012 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Assistant Engineer (Civil/Transportation) / Engineer Trainee SG-NS/18

StateJobsNY

Palmyra, NY • On-site

$71.43K - $107.98K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Duties Description Under the direction of a Professional Engineer (Construction Manager), the incumbent will function as Thruway Project Engineer and be responsible for the following:
- Acting as the on-site representative of the Authority to administer smaller, more routine capital construction contracts and, in partnership with the contractor, to achieve the established goals of the construction program.
- Assigned as TPE on smaller construction projects or will fill the role of an Office Engineer of Chief Inspector on a larger project.
- Responsible for supervision of the inspection of contract work, reviewing contracts and specifications, collecting and analyzing engineering data dealing with public concerns, complying with and promoting safety and health requirements on the job, materials testing, preparing daily work reports and/or a daily diary, field survey work and contract administration.
- In charge of and directly supervising other inspection staff and dealing directly with contractors.
- Additional duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications Engineer Trainee (Civil/Transportation) SG-18
Current New York State employee with one year or more of qualifying permanent service as SG-16 or above, and eligible for transfer under Section 70.1 of the NYS Civil Service Law.
Assistant Engineer (Civil/Transportation) SG-20;
Current New York State employee with one year or more of qualifying permanent service as a SG-19 or above, and eligible for transfer under Section 70.1 of the NYS Civil Service Law. All transfer candidates are required to have proof of passing the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) Fundamentals of Engineering Examination (FE).
NY HELPS Qualifications:
Assistant Engineer (Civil/Transportation) SG-20:
Proof of passing the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) Fundamentals of Engineering Examination (FE) AND a qualifying bachelor's degree or higher as listed below.
OR;
Proof of passing the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) Fundamentals of Engineering Examination (FE) AND one year of full-time qualifying engineering experience as listed below.
Engineer Trainee SG-18:
A bachelor's degree or higher in engineering or engineering technology as listed below.
OR
Proof of passing the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) Fundamentals of Engineering Examination (FE) AND one year of full-time qualifying engineering experience as listed below.
Individuals appointed as an Engineer trainee must complete one successful year in the traineeship regardless of when they obtain their Fundamentals of Engineering Examination (FE).
Qualifying degrees: Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering Technology, Construction Engineering, Construction Engineering Technology, Construction Engineering Management, Construction Engineering Management Technology, Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Electrical Power Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Environmental Engineering Technology, Environmental Design Engineering, Environmental Resources Engineering, Environmental Systems Engineering, Forest Engineering, Geological Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Hydraulics Engineering, Materials Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Structural Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Transportation Planning and Engineering, or Engineering Science with a recognized concentration in any of the above listed engineering degrees.
Qualifying experience: One year of full-time engineering experience in the design and construction of parks, roads, bridges, recreational facilities, water and/or wastewater treatment facilities.
This title is part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS). For the duration of the NY HELPS Program, this title may be filled via a non-competitive appointment, which means no examination is required but all candidates must meet the minimum qualifications of the title for which they apply.
At a future date, it is expected employees hired under NY HELPS will have their non-competitive employment status converted to competitive status, without having to compete in an examination. Employees will then be afforded with all of the same rights and privileges of competitive class employees of New York State. While serving permanently in an NY HELPS title, employees may take part in any promotion examination for which they are qualified.
Additional Comments Please note this posting is intended to fill two (2) vacancies at this location.
This is a CSEA position. The NYS Thruway Authority offers an extensive benefits package, including but not limited to paid time off, sick leave incentive, membership to the NYS Retirement System, and 90% tuition assistance.
We offer FREE onsite employee parking.
Our telecommuting program offers up to 20% (two days per pay period) upon completion of at least three months of satisfactory performance. Additional policy guidelines and work hours may be discussed during the interview.
ADDITIONAL PAY INFORMATION:
The salary range for this position includes all applicable annual components of pay which are:
Base Pay Range from Hiring Rate $64,427 up to Job Rate $100,979.
Recruitment & Retention Pay: $7,000
This position may be filled as a traineeship. The starting salaries for this traineeship are outlined below. For current New York State employees, salary is based on the candidate's salary at the time of hire.
$64,427 Engineer Trainee, SG-18
$71,356 Assistant Engineer, SG-20
ELIGIBILITY FOR EMPLOYMENT:
All potential candidates for this position must be legally eligible to work in the United States at the time of appointment and throughout your employment with the New York State Thruway Authority. If appointed, you will be required to produce documents that verify your identity and authorization to work
in the United States, as required by the Federal Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, and the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Please be advised, the New York State Thruway Authority does not use eVerify, and we are unable to provide sponsorship for employment visa statuses (i.e. H-1B, Self-Sponsorship, STEM OPT).
The New York State Thruway Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All individuals including women, people of color, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.
New York State Human Rights Law prohibits discrimination based on age, race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, military status, familial status, citizen or immigration status, sex, disability, marital status, gender identity or expression, prior arrests, prior conviction records, predisposing genetic characteristics or domestic violence victim status. The Thruway Authority is committed to a workplace free from discrimination based on the referenced characteristics and other federal and state protected characteristics.
The New York State Thruway Authority provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please contact the Bureau of Accessibility, Equity, Diversity and Employee Engagement at accommodations@thruway.ny.gov or call (518) 471-4321.
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.
Name Olivia
Telephone 518-436-2725
Fax 518-471-5076
Email Address canvassreply7@thruway.ny.gov
Address
Street 200 Southern Blvd
City Albany
State NY
Zip Code 12209
Notes on Applying If interested in this vacancy, please submit a resume and any other documents for proof of eligibility to the contact information in this announcement. You must include the Vacancy ID and Title of the position you are applying for in your email.