1

Geological Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SCOPE OF POSITION The Field Engineer / Geologist is responsible for the safe, efficient and accurate operation of geotechnical and geophysical site investigation equipment. Given significant ...

Geotechnical Engineer

Orange, CA · On-site

$95K - $135K/yr

Description We have over 50 years of experience in the geotechnical and geological engineering field. With our experts, professional skilled staff, and diverse experience, we offer reliable services ...

Geotechnical Engineer

Orange, CA · On-site

$95K - $135K/yr

Description We have over 50 years of experience in the geotechnical and geological engineering field. With our experts, professional skilled staff, and diverse experience, we offer reliable services ...

Geotechnical Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95K - $135K/yr

California Compensation: $95,000 - $135,000 / year Description We have over 50 years of experience in the geotechnical and geological engineering field. With our experts, professional skilled staff ...

Lead Geologist - Land

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

Associate professionals are registered geotechnical engineers or geologists, typically with advanced professional certifications, who manage and lead teams in execution of projects and pursuits.

Associate professionals are registered geotechnical engineers or geologists, typically with advanced professional certications, who manage and lead teams in execution of projects and pursuits.

Showing results 21-40

Geological Engineer information

See California salary details

$68.1K

$74K

$78.5K

How much do geological engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for geological engineer in California is $74,017.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,600.00 and $76,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a geological engineer?

As a geological engineer, you find mineral deposits and other natural resources to extract. Your job duties include designing structures like mines and tunnels. You also inspect the geological conditions of mining sites to ensure safety. You’re responsible for implementing action plans to minimize the negative environmental impact of mining and exploration activities and leading proper erosion control, water maintenance, and waste disposal efforts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geological engineer?

To thrive as a Geological Engineer, you need a solid background in geology, mathematics, and engineering principles, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in geological or geotechnical engineering. Familiarity with GIS software, geological modeling tools, and industry-specific certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure is often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate site assessments, safe project designs, and successful collaboration with multidisciplinary teams in challenging environments.

What are some typical challenges geological engineers face when working on field projects?

Geological Engineers often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, difficult terrain, and limited accessibility to remote sites during fieldwork. They must adapt to changing project requirements and ensure that all safety protocols are followed while collecting geological data. Additionally, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—such as environmental scientists, civil engineers, and regulatory agencies—requires strong communication and project management skills to keep projects on track and compliant with industry standards.

Are geological engineers in demand?

Geological engineers are in steady demand due to their expertise in assessing natural hazards, resource extraction, and environmental protection. Employment opportunities are often found in mining, oil and gas, environmental consulting, and government agencies, with a need for strong skills in geology, engineering principles, and data analysis.

What does a geological engineer do?

A Geological Engineer applies principles of geology and engineering to solve problems related to earth materials and processes. They are involved in the exploration and evaluation of mineral resources, design of foundations for structures, assessment of natural hazards like landslides or earthquakes, and environmental protection. Geological Engineers work on projects such as mining, tunneling, dam construction, and site remediation, ensuring safety and sustainability. Their work often includes field studies, laboratory analysis, and using specialized software for modeling and analysis.

What is the difference between Geological Engineer vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectGeological EngineerGeotechnical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in geology or geological engineering; often requires licensureBachelor's in civil or geological engineering; often requires licensure
Work EnvironmentField sites, exploration, environmental assessmentsConstruction sites, foundation design, soil testing
Industry UsageMining, environmental consulting, resource explorationConstruction, infrastructure, foundation engineering

Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and licensure, but Geological Engineers focus on understanding Earth's processes and resource exploration, while Geotechnical Engineers specialize in soil and foundation stability for construction projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Geological Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Geological Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Geological Engineer jobs in California? For Geological Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Geological Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Geological Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Geological Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Geological Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Geological Engineer jobs in CA? For Geological Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Geological Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,017 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Staff Environmental Scientist / Geologist / Engineer

AEI Consultants

Walnut Creek, CA • On-site

$70K - $76K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description

POSITION: Staff Environmental Scientist / Geologist / Engineer I

LOCATION: Walnut Creek, California


POSITION SUMMARY


The Staff Environmental Scientist / Geologist / Engineer is an entry-level professional that is ready to gain broad working knowledge and experience in performing environmental site assessments (ESAs), analyzing and evaluating environmental data, writing technical reports, and contributing to the Site Mitigation team's growth. In this role the Staff Scientist / Geologist / Engineer will work with Project and Senior level scientists within the Site Mitigation Division to learn and implement field assessments, including but not limited to soil, soil vapor, groundwater, and indoor air sampling. Experience level is flexible ranging from 0 to 5 years, and salary will be commensurate with previous experience and willingness to learn. 


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Solicits bids from environmental contractors for field drilling and/or sampling
  • May participate in the preparation of proposals with mentorship from senior technical staff
  • Coordinates schedules with subcontractors, client representatives, and internal teams and performs field activities associated with a wide range of project sites
  • Will work under the supervision of licensed Professional Engineers and Geologists and other senior technical staff to learn environmental sampling, field program implementation, data interpretation, and technical report writing 
  • Managing field sampling program
  • Field tasks including drilling, sample and data collection, collecting measurements, performing inspections, and data recording construction and related tasks
  • Maintains or exceeds applicable utilization goals
  • Obtains and adheres to the Company required Health and Safety Training Program and Practices;
  • Use of automated field technology for field note taking and boring log preparation
  • Work towards independent management of field tasks/projects and the completion of approximately two Phase II ESAs per week, or an equivalent deliverable under appropriate supervision
  • Depending on prior experience and interest, may be responsible for the development of report Figures using GIS and/or AutoCAD programs
  • Responsible use of AI for developing personal workflow efficiencies that adhere to AEI's corporate AI Use Policy

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Approximately 0-5 years of previous experience performing environmental investigations (Phase II assessments), and/or completing site characterization and remedial investigations or remedial/mitigation implementation
  • Excellent verbal, written, organizational, and communication skills
  • Flexibility to work in a team environment and as an individual contributor to the region and national Division
  • Willingness and ability to perform a wide range of project tasks, as necessary (i.e., field task implementation and management, budget preparation, report writing, etc.) under mentorship, ability to think critically through a project from conception to completion;
  • A self-starter, resourceful, with an attention to detail and the ability to work productively and independently on multiple projects under sometimes tight deadlines;
  • Enjoyment of a dynamic work environment with some travel and often at a fast pace is most compatible with this role;
  • Current OSHA 40-hour "HAZWOPER" training certification strongly preferred
  • Knowledge of Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) and drilling and/or sampling experience is a plus;
  • Additional Health and Safety training a plus

EDUCATION

  • Bachelor's Degree, or higher, in geology, civil or environmental engineering, hydrogeology, geochemistry, or similar field required

LICENSES / CERTIFICATIONS

  • GIT or EIT certification a plus

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • The work environment may be both indoors and outdoors. Indoor work takes place in a typical office setting. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Outdoor work requires the ability to effectively perform work in all types of weather conditions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, type, handle office and/or field equipment, speak and hear. The employee may occasionally be required to stand, walk, balance, kneel or crouch. The employee may be required to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to focus. 
  • Travel in the Bay Area is required, and occasional opportunities for travel outside of CA is possible.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS & PERKS


AEI Consultants offers all full-time employees an outstanding, extensive benefits package, which among other benefits includes medical, dental, and vision benefits, paid time off and sick leave, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 401K, complimentary use of AEI's condo at Donner Lake in Truckee, CA, an Employee Referral Bonus Program, and Commuter Tax and Dependent Care Benefits. 


COMPANY CULTURE


One of the primary reasons that our employees enjoy working at AEI is our positive company culture. We offer a collaborative, flexible and inclusive work environment where employees have the opportunity to engage in meaningful work, make a positive impact on our clients and communities, and are encouraged to carve out a career path within the organization that best aligns with their interests and goals. We greatly value the contributions of our team members and prioritize employee wellness, safety, flexibility and work/life balance. 


OVERVIEW


AEI Consultants is an employee-owned consulting firm that provides comprehensive services to commercial lenders, property owners, managers, tenants, and developers, industries, institutions, government agencies, and insurers, including many Fortune 500 companies. These services include environmental, property and facility assessments, zoning and energy consulting, site investigation and remediation, industrial hygiene, land surveying, valuation, and construction risk management. AEI specializes in identifying potential risks and crafting solutions through Environmental and Building Evaluation Consulting, Construction Services, Site Investigation and Remediation expertise. AEI Consultants is known for being reliable, responsive and resourceful. Founded in 1992, AEI is based in the San Francisco Bay area and has offices strategically located throughout the United States. 


AEI Consultants values diversity and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment for our employees and community. We encourage all applicants who are excited about this opportunity and share our career goals to apply, even if they don't meet every requirement. We are proud to offer equal employment opportunities, prohibiting discrimination and harassment based on various protected characteristics defined by law. This policy applies to all aspects of employment. At AEI Consultants, we believe that a diverse team is essential for our success, and we strive to attract, develop, and retain talented individuals from diverse backgrounds.