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Forensic Geologist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... and forensic testing. Our labs are growing, and we are looking to hire long-term to accommodate ... Must have an undergraduate degree in Geology, Environmental Sciences, related science, or PLM ...

Forensic Geologist information

See Virginia salary details

$35.7K

$76.4K

$123.4K

How much do forensic geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic geologist in Virginia is $76,370.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,500.00 and $92,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a forensic geologist typically collaborate with law enforcement and legal teams during an investigation?

Forensic geologists work closely with law enforcement officers, crime scene investigators, and legal professionals to analyze earth materials that may link suspects to crime scenes. They often participate in multidisciplinary teams, providing expert interpretation of soil, rock, and mineral evidence. This collaboration involves presenting scientific findings in clear, understandable language, preparing detailed reports, and sometimes testifying in court as expert witnesses. Effective communication and the ability to translate technical data for non-specialists are crucial in these interactions.

What are forensic geologists and what do they do?

Forensic geologists are specialists who apply geological science to legal investigations. They analyze soil, rocks, minerals, and other earth materials to help solve crimes or resolve civil disputes. Their work often involves comparing soil samples from crime scenes with those found on evidence or suspects to establish connections. Forensic geologists can also help determine the provenance of materials, reconstruct accident scenes, or provide expert testimony in court. Their expertise is valuable in cases involving environmental law, land disputes, and criminal investigations.

What is the difference between Forensic Geologist vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectForensic GeologistForensic Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's or master's in geology, certification in forensic geologyBachelor's or master's in forensic science, certification in forensic science
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, field investigations, crime scenes involving earth materialsCrime labs, hospitals, crime scenes involving biological or physical evidence
Industry UsageLegal cases involving soil, minerals, or geological evidenceLegal cases involving biological, chemical, or physical evidence

Forensic Geologists specialize in analyzing geological evidence like soil and minerals at crime scenes, while Forensic Scientists handle a broader range of evidence types. Both roles require relevant certifications and often work in crime labs or on-site investigations, but their focus areas differ significantly.

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

To thrive as a Forensic Geologist, you need a strong background in geology, mineralogy, and geochemistry, typically supported by a relevant degree and field experience. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, GIS software, and forensic sampling techniques is vital. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong written communication are essential soft skills for interpreting evidence and preparing reports. These abilities ensure accurate, legally defensible analyses that support investigations and judicial processes.

How much do forensic serologists make?

Forensic serologists, who analyze biological evidence in criminal investigations, typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can increase with specialized training, certifications, and working in government or private laboratories.

What does a forensic geologist do?

A forensic geologist analyzes geological evidence from crime scenes, such as soil, minerals, and rock samples, to help solve crimes. They use scientific techniques and tools like microscopes and spectrometers to identify and compare evidence, often working closely with law enforcement agencies. This role requires knowledge of geology, attention to detail, and often certification or specialized training.

How to become a forensic geologist?

To become a forensic geologist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in geology, geology-related sciences, or forensic science. Gaining experience through internships or fieldwork, developing skills in mineral identification and soil analysis, and obtaining relevant certifications can enhance job prospects in this specialized field.

What is the highest paid geologist?

The highest paid geologists are often senior-level professionals such as petroleum geologists or exploration geologists working in the oil and gas industry, where salaries can exceed $150,000 annually. Specialized skills, advanced degrees, and certifications like the Certified Petroleum Geologist (CPG) can also contribute to higher earnings.
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Geologist jobs in Virginia? For Forensic Geologist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Geologist jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Geologist jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Forensic Geologist job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,370 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Design Engineering Geologist

Quanta Services

Blacksburg, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Quanta Services rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 79 rated construction


Job description

QISG leverages Quanta’s comprehensive resources to deliver collaborative solutions for our partners' energy infrastructure needs. We use in-house talent, expertise and resources to plan, design, engineer, manage, conduct maintenance on and construct projects.


Our turnkey service capabilities provide our customers with efficiency, consistency, attention to detail and safe execution. The QISG team brings together Engineering, Safety, Quality, Material Procurement, QA/QC, Right-of-Way Acquisition, Scheduling, Environmental Planning, Permitting, Title and Land Management expertise that ensure outstanding results for our clients.


Design Engineering Geologist within QISG is involved in a variety of geo-structural engineering projects with a focus on foundation engineering and geological risk evaluation with an emphasis on design-build delivery methods for large-scale energy generation and transmission-related projects. Collaborating with an in-house, multi-disciplinary engineering and construction team — including civil, structural, geotechnical, construction management, and construction experts — a Design Geologist plays a crucial role in providing geo-structural design solutions on projects; responsibilities include geologic data collection and interpretation supporting design production, and geologic support during construction.

This role is an office-based position with a primary focus on executing both pre-construction geotechnical investigations, geologic hazard assessments, and construction-phase monitoring services. A successful candidate is able to utilize geologic judgment, field observations, and digital technologies such as LiDAR and GIS to assess and quantify geologic conditions. Periodic fieldwork is also expected, related to activities such as geological characterization of materials in the field, and quality control and assurance of construction projects. The Design Geologist will perform under the direct oversight of a Professional Engineering Geologist and/or Geotechnical Engineer, to solve complex problems. The position involves use of sound geotechnical and geologic judgement, field data collected by themselves or others, and digital technologies to develop economical solutions to support civil construction and communicate effectively with project management, technical, and construction personnel.


  • Collect, analyze, and interpret data in support of geotechnical studies, foundation engineering designs, and site investigations as required by a project.
  • Perform desktop-based geologic research, organizing, data analyses, interpreting and concisely presenting research data collected from a variety of public and private sources.
  • Manage and operate geotechnical and geophysical instruments, track test results, process and interpret data, and troubleshoot when issues arise.
  • Interface closely with project-level and senior leadership personnel within the company, including geotechnical, geological, structural, transmission line, and civil engineering, GIS, and construction management team members.
  • Provide information on geologic conditions, hazard assessments and apply geologic engineering principles to solve complex problems
  • Participate in field subcontractor activities, such as geotechnical drilling and testing and/or forensics studies.
  • Develop written reports and/or provide verbal communication of information in a professional and appropriate manner under the direct supervision of a senior level Geotechnical Engineer or Geologist in a professional office setting.
  • Perform occasional site visits to project sites located throughout North America.
  • Participation in sector focused professional organizations, and attendance and presentations at industry events. 
  • Performs special projects and completes other job-related duties as assigned

  • Bachelor of Science degree (BS) in Geologic Science.
  • Academic qualification for geologic licensure, via completion of the
  • Fundamentals in Geology (FE), or Geologist-in-Training (GIT) certifications.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, working with moderate supervision and maximum efficiency in a small or medium size office setting.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams
  • Completion of a 4-6 week capstone field camp as part of the academic curriculum
  • Master’s degree or upper division coursework in geotechnical engineering preffered or engineering geology, or experience in the geotechnical field.
  • Familiarity with use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and associatedsoftware for collection and analysis of large geological and geotechnical data sets.
  • Experience supporting construction-phase services preferred, such as qualitycontrol/assurance testing and contractor interface in an active construction environment.

QISG Benefits Highlights

  • Competitive Compensation
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage - Multiple Medical, dental & vision plans with 100% preventive care
  • 24/7 telehealth (Teladoc)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Company-funded HSA and pre-tax savings options
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • No-cost Short- and Long-term Disability
  • Employer-paid basic Life & AD&D Insurance
  • Paid Time off (PTO) and 10 Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental leave
  • Education Reimbursement and Professional Development
  • Employee discount program and optional insurance offerings:
    • Identity Theft Protection
    • Accident Insurance
    • Voluntary Life (spouse and child)
    • Critical Illness
    • Hospital Indemnity
    • Pet Insurance

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company’s Human Resources department.


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