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Forensic Geologist Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

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$34.4K

$73.6K

$118.9K

How much do forensic geologist jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic geologist in Houston, TX is $73,562.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $88,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

How much does a forensic geologist make?

A forensic geologist's salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages.

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 popular job titles related to Forensic Geologist jobs in Houston, TX? For Forensic Geologist jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Geologist jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Geologist jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Forensic Geologist jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Forensic Geologist job openings:
Forensic Geologist jobs near you
Digital Forensic Examiner

Digital Forensic Examiner

Department of Justice

Houston, TX

$52.73K/yr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Are you interested in a career with the FBI as a Digital Forensic Examiner (DFE)? At the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Digital Forensic Examiners apply their technical skills and experience to preserve and analyze digital evidence related to FBI investigations. As key members of the Computer Analysis and Response Team (CART), Digital Forensic Examiners work with advanced technologies, forensic concepts, software, and tools to solve the Bureau's most challenging cases.Qualifications:GS-9: Applicant must possess at least one (1) year of SE equivalent to the GS-7 grade level. SE is defined as follows:
  • Planned and completed assignments while adhering to established instructions, policies, practices, and procedures.
  • Established and maintained working relationships with internal and external stakeholders to exchange information, assisting in research while providing recommendations to methods and techniques to evaluate data, digital evidence, a variety of technologies and/or analytical support.
  • Utilized computer related hardware and software to preserve, extract and analyze data and/or digital evidence.
GS-11: Applicant must possess at least one (1) year of SE equivalent to the GS-9 grade level. SE is defined as follows:
  • Conducted routine examinations of data and/or digital evidence, using established policies, procedures and precedent techniques.
  • Utilized computer related hardware and software to identify, collect, examine, preserve, and duplicate data and/or digital evidence.
  • Communicated orally and in writing to prepare and present reports, briefings, of information and findings obtained during investigations.
  • Provided guidance to a variety of internal and external stakeholders in the examination and retrieval of data and/or digital evidence, ensuring proper established practices and protocols are followed.
Education:BASIC REQUIREMENT
All personnel must have at least 24 college level semester hours from an accredited college or university in one or more of the following disciplines:
  • Computer Science
  • Engineering
  • Information Science
  • Information Systems Management
  • Mathematics
  • Operations Research
  • Statistics
  • Technology Management
  • Information Systems Analysis
  • Computer/Digital/Electronic Forensics
  • Science/Technology (other than physical sciences)
    • Acceptable:
      • Physics/Astrophysics
      • Chemistry/Organic Chemistry
    • Unacceptable:
      • Astronomy
      • Geology
      • Biology
  • Management Information Systems
  • Information Technology Systems
  • Data Structure and Design
AND
  • A Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university;
OR
Technical Experience:
Four (4) years of full-time experience working as either a technician or forensic examiner (consistent with FBI digital evidence program definitions) within a digital evidence facility that supports criminal investigations and has an external accreditation or internal quality assurance framework.
Hybrid:
Consideration for admission under the Hybrid path is a combination of education and work experience equal or greater than four (4) years. The Digital Evidence Staffing Education & Development Unit (DESED) will combine the full-time work experience, time given for Work Time Experience (WTE) based on certificates/certifications, and time given for academic credit hours to calculate the required four (4) years:
  • Full-time experience working as either a technician or forensic examiner (consistent with FBI digital evidence program definitions) within a digital evidence facility that supports criminal investigations, and has an external accreditation or internal quality assurance framework.
  • Technical and computer forensic industry accepted professional certificates/certifications will be reviewed and assign equivalent WTE based on difficulty of the certificate/certification received, DESED will document and maintain a list of accepted and denied certificates/certifications and their assigned WTE.
  • Two (2) weeks per credit hours will be given for any course over 200 level or equivalent in the following disciplines:
    • Computer Science
    • Engineering
    • Information Science
    • Information Systems Management
    • Mathematics
    • Operations Research
    • Statistics
    • Technology Management
    • Information Systems Analysis
    • Computer/Digital/Electronic Forensics
    • Science/Technology (other than physical sciences)
    • Management Information Systems
    • Information Technology Systems
    • Data Structure and Design
Personnel who hold a current FBI Digital Forensic Examiner certification, are up to date with all requirements for a current FBI Digital Forensic Examiner, and have been continuously certified as an FBI Digital Forensic Examiner for more than one (1) year.
All degrees must be from an accredited college or university. Education may be substituted for specialized experience as follows:
GS-9: Applicant must have a master's or equivalent graduate degree or 2 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree or LL.B. or J.D., if related.
GS-11: Applicant must have a Ph.D. OR equivalent doctoral degree OR 3 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree OR LL.M., if related.
Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements provided you can show foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
Employment Type: OTHER

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