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Geologist Starting Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

C2Earth, Inc.

Staff Geologist / Engineer

Campbell, CA · On-site

... starting your career at a firm that combines technical rigor, real-world impact, and deep respect ... Competitive entry-level salary and benefits package. Flexibility: A healthy mix of field and office ...

ERRG

Assistant Geologist/Engineer

Martinez, CA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

... to starting work. * May be required to travel up to 25% to 50% of the time to project sites ... California Salary Range $70,000-$85,000 USD Employment is contingent upon successful completion of ...

Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District

$70.84 - $86.11/hr

Master's in geology, geophysics, earth sciences, meteorology, oceanography, or paleontology OR ... SALARY SCHEDULE :Adjunct, Overload and Substitute Salary Schedule. Additional Information SPECIAL ...

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$124.5K

How much do geologist starting salary jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for geologist starting salary in the United States is $77,030.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $93,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the starting salary for a geologist?

The starting salary for a geologist can vary depending on factors such as location, industry, level of education, and employer. In the United States, entry-level geologists typically earn between $45,000 and $65,000 per year. Geologists employed in industries like oil and gas or mining may start at higher salaries, while those in government or environmental consulting may start at the lower end of the range. Earning potential often increases with experience, certifications, and advanced degrees.

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

To thrive as a Geologist, you need a solid background in earth sciences, geology, and geochemistry, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in geology or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, geological mapping tools, and data analysis systems is common, and certifications such as Professional Geologist (PG) can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for accurate data interpretation, safe fieldwork, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams in both research and industry projects.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level geologists in their first year on the job?

Entry-level geologists often encounter challenges such as adapting to extensive fieldwork, which can involve working in remote or harsh environments and irregular hours. They also need to quickly learn how to use specialized software and equipment for data collection and analysis. Additionally, new geologists may find interpreting complex geological data under tight deadlines demanding, while also collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams. Building strong communication skills and resilience helps overcome these initial hurdles and contributes to professional growth.

What is the difference between Geologist Starting Salary vs Geoscientist Starting Salary?

AspectGeologist Starting SalaryGeoscientist Starting Salary
Average Salary$55,000 - $70,000$50,000 - $65,000
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Geology or Earth SciencesBachelor's in Geoscience or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, labs, officesResearch, fieldwork, offices
Industry UsageMining, oil & gas, environmental consultingOil & gas, environmental agencies, research

Both geologists and geoscientists typically hold similar degrees and work in overlapping industries. However, geoscientists often have a broader focus on research and data analysis, which can influence salary differences at the entry level. Overall, starting salaries are comparable, with slight variations depending on specific industry sectors and geographic location.

Do geologists make good money?

Geologists typically earn a starting salary ranging from $50,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Experienced geologists with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in sectors like oil and gas, environmental consulting, or mining.

How much do geologists starting salary make in the US?

The starting salary for geologists in the US typically ranges from $50,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on location, education, and industry. Entry-level geologists with a bachelor's degree often earn toward the lower end of this range, while those with internships or relevant certifications may earn more.
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Geologist Starting Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geologist Starting Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,030 per year, or $37 per hour.

Geologist/Environmental Scientist

Atlantic Coast Consulting

Alpharetta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Start Your Journey as a Geologist/Environmental Scientist with ACC!


At Atlantic Coast Consulting, Inc. (ACC), we’re driven by a core belief: everyone deserves a clean environment. Our team—geologists, scientists, engineers, designers, and technicians—collaborates every day to help clients reduce their environmental impact while optimizing their resources. To advance our mission, we’re seeking an enthusiastic and technically skilled individual to join the ACC family as an entry-level Geologist/Environmental Scientist!


Why Join ACC?

At ACC, you’ll be part of a team that doesn’t just work—it innovates and inspires. If you’re ready to kick-start your career in geology or environmental science, thrive in an entrepreneurial setting, and are eager to wear multiple hats, we want you on our team. We value creativity, teamwork, and a relentless drive to champion our clients’ needs.


What You’ll Be Doing:


Field Work:

  • Hands-On Experience: Install environmental monitoring and site characterization wells.
  • Ensure Compliance: Support safety and environmental program compliance.
  • Explore & Assess: Conduct contaminant assessments and multi-media field data collection (soil, groundwater, surface water, stormwater, air).
  • Engage: Interact directly with clients during field tasks.


Office Work:

  • Analyze & Characterize: Develop bedrock and soil maps using field and geophysical data, and characterize aquifers.
  • Regulatory Support: Assist with regulatory compliance, permitting, file reviews, and research.
  • Data Management: Perform groundwater flow calculations, develop potentiometric maps, and contribute to environmental reports.
  • Project Support: Calculate data, estimate costs, and review plans and specifications.


What We’re Looking For:

  • Experience: 0-4 years of experience with at least a Bachelor of Science degree in geology or a related field.
  • Skills: Strong communication skills, both written and oral, with proficiency in MS Office.
  • Passion: A love for the outdoors and a commitment to fieldwork, including overnight travel.
  • Physical Readiness: A clean driving record, ability to pass a drug screening, and readiness for physically demanding work. You’ll be navigating uneven terrain for extended periods.
  • Mindset: A positive work ethic, a desire to keep learning, and a willingness to mentor others.


Why You’ll Love Working Here:

  • Grow Your Skills: Access professional training opportunities.
  • Competitive Pay: We offer competitive compensation and a 401K with matching.
  • Security and Benefits: Enjoy fully paid health insurance, long-term and short-term disability, and life insurance.
  • Work-Life Balance: Benefit from paid time off (PTO) with the ability to carry over, and paid parental leave.
  • Ownership: Participate in our company stock ownership program.
  • Community: Join a veteran-owned business that hosts exciting events—monthly birthday lunches, camping trips, and more.
  • Certified Great Place to Work: We’re proud to be recognized as a “Great Place to Work”! (Learn more: Great Place to Work)


What We Offer

  • Competitive Pay: Aggressive starting salary plus bonus opportunities
  • Comprehensive Benefits:
    • Fully paid employee health insurance
    • 401(k) with company match
    • Short- and long-term disability (100% company-paid)
    • Life insurance (100% company-paid)
  • Generous Time Off: 4–6 weeks of PTO + paid parental leave
  • Ownership Opportunities: Company stock ownership program
  • Professional Growth: Ongoing training and career development
  • Awesome Culture: Monthly birthday lunches, annual party, volunteer days, and more
  • Proudly Veteran-Owned: Join a team built on service, integrity, and excellence


At ACC, we value Serving others, Open communication, Learning more, Inspiring & encouraging each other, and Doing things right—making us a S.O.L.I.D. team to work with. If you’re ready to make a real impact and join like-minded individuals passionate about creating a cleaner environment, submit your resume!