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Geologist Starting Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Whether you are an established professional in the transportation field or just starting your ... The salary for this position traditionally starts at $67,314.00 but may be commensurate with ...

Geologist

Indianapolis, IN ยท On-site

$67K/yr

Whether you are an established professional in the transportation field or just starting your ... The salary for this position traditionally starts at $67,314.00 but may be commensurate with ...

The Geologist/Hydrogeologist role is tasked with basic foundational work in the fields of geology ... Salary Range: The anticipated starting pay range for this position is based on the employee ...

The Geologist/Hydrogeologist role istasked with basic foundational work in the fields of geology ... Salary Range: The anticipated starting pay range for this position is based on the employee ...

Staff Geologist / Engineer

Campbell, CA ยท On-site

$55K - $90K/yr

... 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 ...

Assistant Geologist/Engineer

Martinez, CA ยท 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 ...

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Geologist Starting Salary information

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$36K

$77K

$124.5K

How much do geologist starting salary jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 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 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.

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.
More about Geologist Starting Salary jobs
What cities are hiring for Geologist Starting Salary jobs? Cities with the most Geologist Starting Salary job openings:
What states have the most Geologist Starting Salary jobs? States with the most job openings for Geologist Starting Salary jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Geologist Starting Salary jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Geologist Starting Salary jobs are:
Infographic showing various Geologist Starting Salary job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Locum Tenens, 66% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,030 per year, or $37 per hour.

Professional Geologist Manager, DEP

Commonwealth Of Pennsylvania

Bethlehem, PA โ€ข On-site

$78K - $119K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Salary

$78,925.00 - $119,844.00 Annually

Location

Multi-County, PA

Job Type

Civil Service Permanent Full-Time

Job Number

CS-2026-54806-14945

Department

Department of Environmental Protection

Division

EP NERO Sf Drnkg Wtr

Opening Date

07/29/2026

Closing Date

8/27/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

Job Code

14945

Position Number

00045824

Union

Non Union

Bargaining Unit

B3

Pay Group

ST09

Bureau / Division Code

00354280

Bureau / Division

Safe Drinking Water

Worksite Address

See Work Schedule and Additional Information Section.

Contact Name

Rob Konowitch

Contact Email

ra-depjobs@pa.gov

THE POSITION

Would you thrive in a career focused on leading expert geologic teams that help protect the safety of public drinking water across Pennsylvania? Join the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) as a Professional Geologist Manager and help safeguard reliable drinking water for communities statewide. This profession allows you to guide skilled geologic staff as they evaluate critical water sources and support safe water access. Within this role, your leadership will strengthen the scientific work that ensures water systems meet essential standards. Apply today to step into a position where your expertise directly benefits public health and environmental protection!


DESCRIPTION OF WORK

This position directs hydrogeologic evaluation efforts and supervises geologic staff responsible for reviewing and supporting public water system safety. Your efforts will ensure consistent regulatory implementation and provide leadership for complex technical reviews and coordinated agency efforts. As a Professional Geologist Manager, you will perform the following duties:


  • Technical Oversight: Evaluate public water system sources and determine compliance with established hydrogeologic standards
  • Staff Leadership: Supervise geologic personnel, provide assignments, and guide consistent application of program requirements
  • Regulatory Coordination: Work with regional staff and partner agencies to support thorough and timely permit reviews
  • Data Stewardship: Maintain program databases and ensure accuracy of information used for regulatory tracking
  • Agency Collaboration: Participate in meetings and provide consultation to commissions, consultants, and officials on hydrogeologic matters


Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.


Work Schedule and Additional Information:

  • Full-time employment
  • Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
  • You will have the option to work from one of the following headquarters offices:
    • Northeast Regional Office - 2 Public Square, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
    • Pottsville District Office - 5 Laurel Boulevard, Pottsville, PA 17901
    • Bethlehem District Office - 4530 Bath Pike, Bethlehem, PA 18017
    • Scranton District Office - 321 Spruce Street, Scranton, PA 18503
  • Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time, up to 3 days per week. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters location. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview.
  • Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
  • You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

  • Two years as a Licensed Professional Geologist (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration); or
  • Two years of professional geology experience, possession of an active license as a professional geologist issued by the Pennsylvania State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists, and a bachelor's degree in geology, hydrogeology, earth sciences, geosciences, geoenvironmental sciences, environmental sciences, or a closely related field.

Special Requirements:

  • All positions require possession of an active license as a professional geologist issued by the Pennsylvania State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists.
  • All positions require possession of an active Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C driver's license or equivalent.

Other Requirements:

  • PA residency requirement is currently waived for this title.
  • You must be able to perform essential job functions.

How to Apply:

  • Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
  • If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
  • Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
  • Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.
  • All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant's own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information.

Veterans:

  • Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. *7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

  • 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.


The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

EXAMINATION INFORMATION
  • Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
  • Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
  • Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
  • You must provide complete and accurate information or:
    • your score may be lower than deserved.
    • you may be disqualified.
  • You may only apply/test once for this posting.
  • Your results will be provided via email.

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania logo

About Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is not a traditional company but rather a state government entity headquartered in Middletown, Pennsylvania, United States. Through its official website pa.gov, the government provides a broad range of services to its residents, including but not limited to, health services, education, transportation, and regulatory functions. Founded in 1787, the Commonwealth holds a rich history dating back to the foundation of the United States itself. The government's core mission is to serve and improve the lives of Pennsylvanians, fostering a more prosperous, informed, and secure state.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Harrisburg, PA, US

Year founded

1787