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Geological Engineer Jobs in Butte, MT (NOW HIRING)

Degree in Geology, Earth Science, or Engineering preferred * Comfortable working in harsh weather and rugged terrain Payrate: $32-$38 hr DOE

Geological Engineer information

See Butte, MT salary details

$67K

$72.8K

$77.2K

How much do geological engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for geological engineer in Butte, MT is $72,797.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,400.00 and $75,200.00 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.

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 consulting firms, government agencies, and energy companies, with a need for skills in fieldwork, data analysis, and geotechnical modeling.

What do you do as a geological engineer?

A geological engineer applies principles of geology and engineering to assess earth materials, design foundations, and evaluate natural hazards for construction and resource extraction projects. They often work with subsurface investigations, use tools like GIS and drilling equipment, and require knowledge of environmental regulations. Their work supports safe infrastructure development and resource management.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions often require advanced degrees, professional certifications, and work in high-demand industries or executive-level positions.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain senior roles in software or data engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes leadership or executive responsibilities.

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 popular job titles related to Geological Engineer jobs in Butte, MT? For Geological Engineer jobs in Butte, MT, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Geological Engineer jobs in Butte, MT look for? The top searched job categories for Geological Engineer jobs in Butte, MT are:
Infographic showing various Geological Engineer job openings in Butte, MT as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,797 per year, or $35 per hour.

Senior Environmental or Civil Engineer/Scientist/Geologist

GSI Environmental Inc.

Helena, MT • On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

At GSI, our company culture is built on excellent service, teamwork, and technical collaboration to solve the most challenging environmental problems in our communities and throughout the world. We have an immediate opening for a Senior Environmental or Civil Engineer, Scientist, or Geologist. Come join our team!
Responsibilities:
  • Directing and managing small to regional multi-disciplined projects
  • Developing technical approaches for completing site characterization activities
  • Preparing written proposals, managing project budgets, and communicating with client and project stakeholders
  • Providing technical training and support to associate staff to ensure field tasks are completed with precision and consistency
  • Working directly with clients to identify specific project needs and communicating results

  • 10 or more years of related work experience required
  • Bachelor's Degree or higher in Geology, Civil/Environmental Engineering, or related scientific field desirable
  • Professional registration as applicable to one's technical background
  • Extensive experience overseeing environmental field investigations, including sampling various environmental media
  • Experience in water resource studies, infrastructure design, and management
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Experience managing projects/tasks, including the preparation of proposals, cost tracking, and maintaining budgets
  • 40-hour OSHA HAZWOPER certification
  • Valid driver's license and clear driving record
  • Ability to travel

Job Perks:
  • Competitive salary and benefits
  • Quarterly and year-end bonuses
  • Flexible work environment with potential for remote work
  • On-the-job training, mentorship, and professional development
  • Participation in conferences, technical presentations, and papers
  • Collaborative atmosphere