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Geologist Starting Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$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 ...

$89.24/hr

Geology Opening Date: 10/03/2023 Description We are now accepting applications for the Geology ... Adjunct Salary Rate: Starting at $89.24 per hour. (Link to Academic Adjunct Salary Schedule

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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 9, 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.

How much do entry level geologists make in the US?

Entry-level geologists in the US typically earn between $50,000 and $65,000 annually, depending on location, education, and industry sector. Starting salaries may be higher with relevant internships, certifications, or specialized skills in GIS or mineral exploration.

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.

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:
Infographic showing various Geologist Starting Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,030 per year, or $37 per hour.

Senior Environmental Consultant

Verdantas LLC

Manchester, NH • On-site

$126 - $154/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Verdantas rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 446 rated engineering


Job description

Position: Sr. Environmental Consultant – Manchester, NH

What You'll Do:
  • Manage diverse projects, involving multidisciplinary technical teams, to deliver high-quality work on environmental site assessment and remediation projects throughout New Hampshire, the Northeast, and beyond.
  • Maintain and develop client relationships and assist with selling and cross-selling efforts.
  • Routinely interact with regulatory agencies and attend meetings with clients, municipal officials, and contractors.
  • Lead in the development of strategy, scope of work, evaluation of risk, and budget for projects.
  • Actively assist project managers with maintaining and managing project performance metrics.
  • Maintain overall project quality consistent with company and professional standards.
  • Prepare, provide technical input, and/or review reports.
  • Solve problems creatively and effectively and make informed decisions.
  • Communicate effectively and proactively with management, peers, and clients.
  • Mentor and provide technical leadership to aspiring project managers and junior staff.
What You Bring:
  • Bachelor's degree in Geology, Environmental Engineering, or other related technical discipline.
  • 15–20+ years of experience in site investigation (petroleum, hazardous waste, and PFAS) and remediation, conceptual model development, and transactional due diligence support.
  • Professional Licensure (Professional Geologist or Professional Engineer) in New Hampshire or willingness to obtain it within 6 months of hire.
  • Strong knowledge of NHDES Administrative Rules, including but not limited to: Env-Or 600 Contaminated Sites Management, Env-Or 700 Groundwater Release Detection Permits, Env-Or 800 Brownfields Program, and Env-Sw 900 Management of Certain Wastes.
  • An understanding of NHDES Petroleum Reimbursement Fund processes is preferred.
  • Understanding of state and Federal environmental regulatory frameworks in the Northeast.
  • Demonstrated leadership.
  • Experience and willingness to serve as a strong mentor to staff.
  • Excellent attention to detail and excellent communication, organizational, analytical, and judgment skills.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license.

Salary Range: The starting salary for this position is $140,000, with final compensation determined based on qualifications and licensing status.

Benefits:
  • Flexible Work Environment
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Paid Time Off + Holidays

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: Verdantas is an EOE race/color/religion/sex/sexual orientation/gender identity/national origin/disability/vet.

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