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Geological Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Stantec

Geologist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Perform other duties as assigned by the senior geological or engineering staff. * Assist with drilling or onsite construction observation, contractor coordination, and daily reports. * Depending on ...

Stantec

Geologist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Perform other duties as assigned by the senior geological or engineering staff. * Assist with drilling or onsite construction observation, contractor coordination, and daily reports. * Depending on ...

TERRACON

Field Geologist

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

Generate subsurface maps and cross-sections and collaborate with engineering staff on projects ... Bachelor's degree in Geology, Hydrogeology or related field and a minimum of 1 year related ...

TERRACON

Field Geologist

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

Generate subsurface maps and cross-sections and collaborate with engineering staff on projects ... Developing level Geologist/ Hydrogeologist responsible for conducting analyses of component ...

Foth

Environmental Scientist/Geologist

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$73.40K - $96.40K/yr

Consistently ranked by Engineering News Record in the top 150 firms, we offer a values-based ... Foth is currently seeking a team-focused, innovative, and results-oriented Geologist ...

Foth

Environmental Scientist/Geologist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$73.20K - $96.10K/yr

Consistently ranked by Engineering News Record in the top 150 firms, we offer a values-based ... Foth is currently seeking a team-focused, innovative, and results-oriented Geologist ...

Foth

Environmental Scientist/Geologist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Consistently ranked by Engineering News Record in the top 150 firms, we offer a values-based ... Foth is currently seeking a team-focused, innovative, and results-oriented Geologist ...

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Geological Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$64.8K

$70.4K

$74.7K

How much do geological engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for geological engineer in Iowa is $70,444.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,100.00 and $72,800.00 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, and why are they important?

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.

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.

More about Geological Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Geological Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Geological Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Geological Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Geological Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Geological Engineer jobs in IA? For Geological Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Geological Engineer jobs near you
Geologist

Geologist

Stantec

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Stantec rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

72nd of 349 rated engineering

Job description

Job Description
Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields and guide our work with rigor, a creative spirit, and vision for growth. We're a place to apply your passion and collaborate with top environmental talents to work on some of the most challenging projects that are critical to our clients. Join a team that has the environment down to a science.
Your Opportunity
Stantec is seeking a Mid-Level Geologist or Environmental Engineer (3 to 10 years experience) for a remote position preferably in the Omaha or Lincoln, NE area. Alternately, the applicant may elect to work out of our Des Moines or Kansas City offices. You will work closely with guidance and supervision of local Professional Geologists, Engineers and Planners as a team member on complex projects located throughout the Midwest. Previous experience working on environmental remediation or brownfield projects in Nebraska or elsewhere in EPA Region 7 is preferred but not required. The ideal candidate is a mature and self-motivated individual who can work independently and take initiative to solve problems.
Your Key Responsibilities
  • Assist with planning and execution of projects with other disciplines or professions under the direction of a senior engineer/designer and the greater Stantec brownfields and remediation teams in the Midwest and across North America.
  • Develop and implement work plans and budgets for soil and ground water investigations, remediation and environmental compliance projects, reviews data and evaluates against environmental standards, writes technical correspondence and reports, and develop recommendations.
  • Depending on the role, perform or directs field work, including soil or groundwater sampling, or remediation, construction or demolition oversight.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the senior geological or engineering staff.
  • Assist with drilling or onsite construction observation, contractor coordination, and daily reports.
  • Depending on the role, complete geological logs and cross-sections, figures or site plan preparation, and as-built survey review.
  • Liaise between clients, contractors, regulatory officials and third parties on site.
  • Working understanding of policies and procedures for Health, Safety, Security and Environment (HSSE), including client-specific training (as required).

Qualifications
Qualifications - External
Your Capabilities and Credentials
  • Experience preparing environmental and engineering documents, depending on your role.
  • Experience preparing work plans and reports for site assessment and investigation activities.
  • Understanding of strategies for addressing risks associated with contamination and remediation technologies used to clean-up soil, soil gas, and groundwater.
  • Recognize when technical problems are developing and initiate appropriate corrective actions.
  • Ability to check own work for accuracy and completeness and manage time to meet project budget and schedule.
  • Ability to participate and collaborate in project team setting and to engage in creative and critical thought.
  • Communicate in a professional and positive manner, both in writing and in person, with clients, employees, visitors, and the public at large.
  • Ability to travel, including overnight travel, and possess a valid driver's license with a good driving record.

Education and Experience
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in geology, geological engineering, civil engineering, environmental engineering or a related field.
  • Minimum of 3-10 years of experience.

Preferred:
  • Master's degree in geology, geological engineering, civil engineering, environmental engineering or a related field.
  • Licensure as a professional geologist or engineer.
  • Obtained and maintains OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER training.

This description is not a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee and other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned or may be changed at any time with or without notice.
Stantec is a place where the best and brightest come to build on each other's talents, do exciting work, and make an impact on the world around us. Join our growing global firm of over 30,000 professionals and redefine your personal best.

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