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Geologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

As a Project Geologist, you will play a key role in conducting geological and environmental assessments, performing field investigations, and analyzing data to support our projects. You will work ...

As a Project Geologist, you will play a key role in conducting geological and environmental assessments, performing field investigations, and analyzing data to support our projects. You will work ...

As a Project Geologist, you will play a key role in conducting geological and environmental assessments, performing field investigations, and analyzing data to support our projects. You will work ...

Geologist

Ventura, CA · Hybrid

$35 - $41/hr

Skills Environmental science, Geology, Geotechnical, Geotechnical engineering, Civil, Remediation, Soil sampling, Sample analysis Top Skills Details Environmental science,Geology,Geotechnical ...

Geologist

Ventura, CA · Hybrid

$35 - $41/hr

Skills Environmental science, Geology, Geotechnical, Geotechnical engineering, Civil, Remediation, Soil sampling, Sample analysis Top Skills Details Environmental science,Geology,Geotechnical ...

Senior Geologist

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$185K - $250K/yr

The company's platform integrates geological, geophysical, and drilling data into intelligent systems designed to improve targeting accuracy, accelerate discovery timelines, and reduce exploration ...

Professional Geologist

Pleasant Hill, CA · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Professional Geologist Reports to: Program Manager Position Summary : OMS Consulting Services, LLC is hiring Sr. Staff to Project-level Professional Geologists. These are full-time positions. Some ...

We are looking for Geologist to join the team! Primary Responsibilities: * Analyze geological data and prepare detailed technical reports. * Evaluate potential environmental risks and impacts ...

We are looking for Geologist to join the team! Primary Responsibilities: * Analyze geological data and prepare detailed technical reports. * Evaluate potential environmental risks and impacts ...

We are looking for Geologist to join the team! Primary Responsibilities: * Analyze geological data and prepare detailed technical reports. * Evaluate potential environmental risks and impacts ...

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Geologist information

See California salary details

$35.5K

$76K

$122.9K

How much do geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for geologist in California is $76,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,300.00 and $91,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What type of jobs do geologists do?

Geologists study the Earth's materials, processes, and history to understand natural resources, environmental issues, and geological hazards. They work in fields such as resource exploration, environmental consulting, hazard assessment, and research, often using tools like geological maps, core samples, and GIS software. Many geologists work outdoors in the field and may require specialized certifications or licenses depending on their area of focus.

What are some typical challenges a geologist might face when working on field assignments?

Geologists frequently encounter challenges in the field such as working in remote or harsh environments, unpredictable weather conditions, and complex terrain that can impact data collection. They must also ensure accurate sampling and documentation while adhering to safety protocols. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and adapting to project changes are essential for overcoming these obstacles and delivering reliable geological insights.

What does a geologist do?

A geologist studies the Earth’s structure, composition, and processes to understand its history and predict future changes. They analyze rocks, minerals, and fossils to learn about natural phenomena like earthquakes, volcanoes, and the formation of natural resources. Geologists may work in the field collecting samples, in labs conducting tests, or in offices interpreting data and creating reports. Their expertise is crucial for industries such as environmental consulting, oil and gas, mining, and government research.

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 understanding of earth sciences, fieldwork methodologies, and data analysis, typically supported by at least a bachelor's degree in geology or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, geophysical instruments, and geological modeling tools is often required, along with certifications such as the Professional Geologist (PG) license in some regions. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting complex data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for accurately assessing geological formations, ensuring safety, and providing valuable insights for resource management and environmental protection.

What is the difference between Geologist vs Hydrogeologist?

AspectGeologistHydrogeologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Geology, often with certifications in geological surveyingBachelor's or higher in Hydrogeology, Geology, or Environmental Science, with specialized training in groundwater
Work EnvironmentField sites, laboratories, offices; studying rocks, soil, and landformsField sites, laboratories, offices; focusing on groundwater and aquifer systems
Industry UsageMining, oil & gas, environmental consulting, academiaWater resource management, environmental consulting, government agencies

Geologists and hydrogeologists share foundational geology knowledge, but geologists focus broadly on Earth's materials and processes, while hydrogeologists specialize in groundwater systems. Both roles often collaborate but serve different industry needs.

Do geologists make good money?

Geologists typically earn a median annual salary that varies by industry and experience, with many positions offering competitive pay especially for those with advanced degrees or specialized skills. Salaries can range from around $50,000 to over $100,000 per year, depending on factors such as location, employer, and level of expertise. Fieldwork, technical knowledge, and certifications can influence earning potential in this profession.

What is the work of a geologist?

A geologist studies the Earth's materials, processes, and history to understand its structure and composition. They analyze rocks, minerals, and soil samples, often using tools like microscopes and field equipment, and may work in laboratories or in the field to assess natural resources or environmental conditions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Geologist jobs in California? The most popular types of Geologist jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Geologist jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Geologist jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Geologist jobs? Cities in California with the most Geologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Geologist jobs in CA? For Geologist jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Geologist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,022 per year, or $36.5 per hour.

$50K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

This announcement is being advertised as a Forest Service National Hiring effort to fill multiple vacancies. Positions may be filled at one or more of the duty locations included in this announcement. Final determination of the duty location will be made at the time of the job offer.
For additional information about the duties of this position, please contact Jorge Enriquez at jorge.enriquez@usda.gov.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.

Basic Requirement:
GS-1350 Series:

Degree: Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree that included a major field of study in: geology, plus 20 additional semester hours in any combination of mathematics, physics, chemistry, biological science, structural, chemical, civil, mining or petroleum engineering, computer science, planetary geology, comparative planetology, geophysics, meteorology, hydrology, oceanography, physical geography, marine geology, and cartography.
OR
Combination of education and experience -- course work as shown above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Acceptable experience may have been gained through geological field or laboratory work that provided a means of obtaining professional knowledge of the theory and application of the principles of geology and closely related sciences, e.g., geophysics, geochemistry, or hydrology. Such work generally must have involved making close observations, taking samples, handling various types of instruments and equipment, assembling geologic data from source materials, and analyzing and reporting findings orally and in writing. Experience that involved only one phase of geology work, e.g., collecting samples, would not be acceptable as providing the required professional knowledge of the theory and principles of geology. In some situations, professional scientific experience in other fields may be accepted in part as professional geological experience. Such experience must have been preceded by appropriate education in geology or by professional geological experience, and must have contributed directly and significantly to the applicant's professional geological competence. Examples include some positions in geophysics, mining engineering, soils science, physical oceanography, hydrology, climatology, biology, analytic or experimental chemistry, metallurgy, and comparable fields where the normal duties or results of investigations have been extended to the solution of geologic problems by the applicant. Ordinary functions of positions such as seismic, computer, petroleum or mining engineer, mine superintendent, or metallurgist generally are not considered professional geological experience. To receive credit for geological experience obtained in positions that are not full-time professional geological positions, the applicant is responsible for indicating clearly the actual time or percentage of time devoted to geologic duties within such positions, and for giving adequate descriptions of the geologic functions.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement listed above, you must also possess experience and/or directly related education in the amounts listed below.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GS 07 level: Applicants must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 in the Federal service. Specialized experience is defined as one or more of the following: Assisted in the preparation of documents related to geological studies/programs or mineral resource studies or assessments; Assisted in the routine observation, measurement, inventorying, and recording of scientific data used to support geological studies; and/or Gathered information and researching data for geological studies using a variety of established methods, procedures, and techniques where tasks involved research and analysis of data.
OR
One full year of graduate level education that is directly related;
OR
An appropriate combination of related graduate level education and specialized experience;
OR
Superior Academic Achievement (click the link to determine if you are eligible: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-policies/;
The education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work.
For the GS 09 level: Applicants must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 in the Federal service. Specialized experience is defined as one or more of the following: Collected, analyzed, and reviewed soil and rock sample data and reported findings in response to a geologic inquiry or as a result of reviewing a geologic map or report; Assisted with administering mineral locatable & saleable activities and provided standard data to higher level specialists; Assisted with inspecting mineral operations for compliance and resource impacts; and/or Conducted studies or investigations on projects where minerals and geology activities had an effect on development and/or management of forest resources.
OR
Successful completion of 2 years of progressively higher level related graduate-level education leading to a master's degree and the study was obtained.in an accredited college or university.
OR
An appropriate combination of specialized experience and education (only graduate education in excess of 18 semester hours may be used to qualify applicants for this grade level). The education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:See above for education that may be qualifying for the specific grade level.Employment Type: OTHER