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Geologist Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Materials Project Manager

Springfield, MO · On-site

Professional Engineer (PE), Professional Geologist (PG) or similar professional registration/certification relevant to the type of services and projects being managed. About Us Terracon is a 100 ...

TERRACON

Materials Project Manager

Springfield, MO

Professional Engineer (PE), Professional Geologist (PG) or similar professional registration/certification relevant to the type of services and projects being managed. * Manage all aspects of a small ...

All JobsGeologist JobsGeologist Jobs in Springfield, MO

Geologist information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$32.7K

$70.1K

$113.2K

How much do geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for geologist in Springfield, MO is $70,069.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,900.00 and $84,600.00 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 mineral and oil exploration, environmental consulting, natural hazard assessment, and academic research, often using tools like geological maps, core samples, and GIS software. Many geologists work outdoors in the field and may require certifications or licenses depending on their specialization.

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 Do Geologists Do?

Geologists study physical earth materials and processes, including rocks, gases, minerals, sediment, and fossil fuels. Environmental geologists survey natural resources and advise mining, engineering, and petroleum sectors on how to find and safely extract earth materials and remediate human impact on groundwater supply and waste management. Geologists in research investigate patterns in earth phenomena hazardous to populations and ecosystems. Geologists conduct field studies for agencies like the USGS, model solutions for geological firms, and supervise environmental safety for city planning, conservation, and sustainability. They may specialize in fields like oceanography, seismology, and volcanology.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the United States, high-paying roles for geologists typically include senior or executive positions such as exploration managers, chief geologists, or consulting firm partners, often requiring extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills. These roles may involve leadership, project management, and expertise in mineral, oil, or gas exploration, with compensation reaching or exceeding $500,000 annually in some cases.

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.

Is it hard being a geologist?

Being a geologist can be challenging due to the need for strong analytical skills, fieldwork in remote or difficult environments, and understanding complex scientific data. It often requires a bachelor's degree or higher, physical stamina, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team. The job can involve irregular hours and travel, but it also offers opportunities for discovery and working outdoors.

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.

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 geological mapping techniques, and may work in the field or laboratory to assess natural resources or environmental conditions.
More about Geologist jobs
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What are popular job titles related to Geologist jobs in Springfield, MO? For Geologist jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Geologist jobs in Springfield, MO look for? The top searched job categories for Geologist jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Geologist jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Geologist job openings:
Geologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geologist job openings in Springfield, MO 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 $70,069 per year, or $33.7 per hour.
Geotechnical Senior Project Manager

Geotechnical Senior Project Manager

TERRACON

Springfield, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Terracon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 117 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 58 rated business consultants

Job description


Manage all aspects of a facilities, materials, environmental, or geotechnical engineering project to ensure that it is safely completed on time and within scope and budget. Responsible for completing the project as per its contracted scope; monitor progress and performance against the project plan. Troubleshoot and recommend or resolve operational problems and minimize delays. May be responsible for resource management, project scheduling, budgets and forecasts, and working with external vendors, subcontractors or contractors. Conducts meetings and prepares reports to communicate the status of the project to project team and client. Set priorities, assign tasks, and coordinate project staff to meet project targets and milestones. May have responsibilities to communicate with the client and deliver work products to satisfaction of client. Coordinates effort with APR to make sure that APR has opportunity to engage throughout the project, particularly at critical junctures. Is involved with approving invoices, preparing change orders, and collections.
Responsibilities
  • Manage all aspects of a large scale and complex project.
  • Works with client or NAM to define project scope, schedule and budget
  • Leads interactions with client and stakeholders to ensure their goals are being considered in execution of the work
  • Design, communicate, and implement a project plan for completing a project.
  • Leads safety efforts including preparation and compliance with approved safety plan
  • Resolve operational problems and minimize delays.
  • Identify, develop, and gather necessary resources to complete the project.
  • Prepare designs and work specifications; develop schedules, budgets and forecasts; select materials, equipment, project staff, and contractors.
  • Estimate costs, resources, and time required to complete.
  • Prepares forecasts for expenditures and manages scope, schedule to meet budget
  • Monitor activities, allocate resources, and assign tasks to ensure targets are met.
  • Partner with other departments or offices to secure specialized resources for the project.
  • Conduct project meetings and prepare reports to communicate the status of the project within and beyond the project team.
  • Coach and mentor project staff and assist them to solve problems.
  • Coordinates with APR to ensure appropriate oversight is in place and sufficient time allowed for quality reviews
  • Coordinates with accounting for financial management of business intelligence, invoicing and collections
  • Develop understanding and be aware of project-related risk. Be familiar with what could go wrong on a project and how to protect the Company. Be familiar with company risk policies.
  • Lead safety efforts for team and ensure team follows safety rules and guidelines. Responsible for creating and modeling a safe work environment; demonstrates safety practices. Promote pre-task planning for all projects.
  • monitoring and improvement on projects. Monitor and promote quality standards and practices.
  • Responsible for providing consistent quality standards on project and proposal delivery. Engage APRs on projects at their onset.
  • Begin documented mentoring and application process for Terracon Authorized Project Reviewer certification.

Qualifications
Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in technical discipline practices by the Firm including Engineering, Environmental Science or Geology and a minimum of 10 years' related experience. Or, in lieu of a degree, a minimum of 14 years' related experience.
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history.

Preferred Certification:
  • Project Management Professional (PMP) certification preferred.
  • Professional Engineer (PE), Professional Geologist (PG) or similar professional registration/certification relevant to the type of services and projects being managed
  • Authorized Project Reviewer status preferred.

About Us
Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.
Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
About the Team
Innovation and hands-on practice come together in our geotechnical consulting services. We provide geotechnical services nationwide for a wide range of projects, drawing on six decades of historical geotechnical data, a fleet of more than 200 drill rigs, 140 accredited laboratories, and thousands of employees to quickly organize or capture site data wherever projects are located. From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration, we deliver precision, value-added subsurface information and engineering and scientific expertise to solving our clients' challenges and achieve their goals for project sustainability, quality, and efficiency.

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