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Geology Forensics Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

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Geology Forensics information

See Reno, NV salary details

$35.9K

$76.8K

$124.1K

How much do geology forensics jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for geology forensics in Reno, NV is $76,804.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,800.00 and $92,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is geology forensics?

Geology forensics is a specialized field that applies geological principles and techniques to assist in criminal investigations and legal cases. Forensic geologists analyze soil, minerals, rocks, and other earth materials to provide evidence about the location, movement, or activities related to a crime. Their work can help link suspects or objects to specific places and provide critical information in environmental and civil cases. They often collaborate with law enforcement, lawyers, and other forensic experts to interpret geological evidence.

What is the difference between Geology Forensics vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectGeology ForensicsGeotechnical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Geology, Geoscience, or related field; certifications varyBachelor's or higher in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering; PE license often required
Work EnvironmentCrime scenes, laboratories, field investigationsConstruction sites, laboratories, project planning
Industry UsageLegal cases, environmental disputes, forensic investigationsConstruction, infrastructure projects, foundation design
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

Geology Forensics focuses on investigating geological evidence in legal and forensic contexts, often at crime scenes or environmental disputes. In contrast, Geotechnical Engineers apply geological principles to design foundations and ensure the stability of structures. While both roles require geology knowledge, their work environments and applications differ significantly.

What is the highest paid forensic job?

In forensic science, forensic toxicologists and forensic pathologists tend to be among the highest paid roles, often earning six-figure salaries due to their specialized skills and extensive training. Forensic toxicologists analyze biological samples for toxins, while forensic pathologists perform autopsies to determine causes of death, both requiring advanced education and certifications.

What is the highest paying job in geology?

The highest paying jobs in geology are often executive roles such as Geology Directors or Senior Geoscientists in the oil and gas industry, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong technical skills in subsurface analysis and project management.

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

To thrive as a Geology Forensics specialist, you need a strong background in geology, chemistry, and forensic science, generally supported by a relevant degree and laboratory experience. Familiarity with analytical tools such as X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and GIS software, along with certifications in forensics or laboratory techniques, is often required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication skills help in analyzing evidence and presenting findings clearly in legal contexts. These skills are crucial for accurately interpreting geological evidence and supporting investigations in criminal or civil cases.

How to become a forensic geologist?

To become a forensic geologist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in geology, geology forensics, or a related earth science field. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in mineralogy and sedimentology, and obtaining certifications such as the Certified Forensic Geologist credential can enhance job prospects in this specialized field.

How does a Geology Forensics professional typically collaborate with law enforcement and legal teams during an investigation?

Geology Forensics professionals play a crucial role in investigations by collecting, analyzing, and presenting geological evidence, such as soil or mineral samples, to help answer critical questions in legal cases. They often work closely with law enforcement officers to guide evidence collection at crime scenes and ensure proper handling of geological materials. Additionally, they frequently consult with attorneys to explain the significance of their findings and may be called upon to testify as expert witnesses in court. This collaboration requires strong communication skills and the ability to translate technical data into understandable information for non-scientists.

What does a forensic geologist do?

A forensic geologist analyzes geological evidence related to criminal investigations, such as soil, minerals, and rock samples, to help establish timelines, locate crime scenes, or identify suspects. They often work with law enforcement agencies, use tools like microscopes and GIS software, and require knowledge of geology and forensic methods. Their work supports legal proceedings by providing expert testimony based on geological findings.
What are popular job titles related to Geology Forensics jobs in Reno, NV? For Geology Forensics jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Geology Forensics jobs in Reno, NV look for? The top searched job categories for Geology Forensics jobs in Reno, NV are:
Geology Forensics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geology Forensics job openings in Reno, NV as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,804 per year, or $36.9 per hour.

Senior Project Engineer - Geotechnical

Quanta Infrastructure Solutions Group, LLC

Reno, NV • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

About Us

QISG leverages Quanta's comprehensive resources to deliver collaborative solutions for our partners' energy infrastructure needs. We use in-house talent, expertise and resources to plan, design, engineer, manage, conduct maintenance on and construct projects.

Our turnkey service capabilities provide our customers with efficiency, consistency, attention to detail and safe execution. The QISG team brings together Engineering, Safety, Quality, Material Procurement, QA/QC, Right-of-Way Acquisition, Scheduling, Environmental Planning, Permitting, Title and Land Management expertise that ensure outstanding results for our clients.

About this Role

Title: Sr. Project Engineer - Geotechnical

At QISG, we are seeking a Sr. Project Engineer delivering critical infrastructure for North America's power generation and transmission systems. This role offers the opportunity to apply geotechnical and geo-structural engineering expertise on large-scale, design-build energy projects that are shaping the future of the grid. As a Senior Project Engineer/Engineering Supervisor, you will play a key role in foundation engineering, geotechnical investigations, and the development of innovative, cost-effective design solutions. Working alongside a multidisciplinary team, you'll contribute to complex projects from early-stage analysis through construction, directly impacting the reliability and expansion of essential energy infrastructure.

What You'll Do
  • Supervise a team of engineers, designers, and support staff, working on various types of civil engineering structures, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations.
  • Execute assignments requiring application of standard and advance engineering techniques, procedures, and criteria to carry out geo-structural engineering tasks.
  • Perform engineering analyses for design of deep foundations (helical piers, drilled shafts, micropiles, driven piles, anchors, and others) and retaining structures utilizing any one of the following software: LPILE, GROUP, FAD, GRLWeap, SHAFT, APILE, RISA, INVENTOR, or SPColumn.
  • Perform limit equilibrium and finite element stability modeling for soil and rock slopes and retaining structures utilizing any one of the following software: SLIDE, RS2, Plaxis, DIPS, Rocslope, or others.
  • Interface closely with other project-level and senior leadership personnel within the company, including geotechnical, geological, structural, transmission line, substation, and civil engineering, GIS, and construction management team members.
  • Participate in oversight and management of field subcontractor activities, such as geotechnical drilling and testing and/or forensics studies.
  • Develop written reports and/or provide verbal communication of information in a professional and appropriate manner.
  • Develop and manage project budgets, monitor expenses, and ensure cost-effective solutions.
  • Implement and oversee quality control procedures to ensure the highest standards of workmanship and materials.
What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an ABET accredited university
  • Professional Engineer (P.E.) licensure
  • Minimum ten (10) years design experience in the geotechnical, transmission, or substation engineering field
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams
  • Ability to work with moderate supervision and maximum efficiency in a small or medium size office setting
  • Master's degree in the field of geotechnical engineering - preferred
What You'll Get
  • Competitive Compensation
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Holiday Pay
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage
  • Pet Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Professional Development
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Employee Discount Program
Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company's Human Resources department.

Employment Type: OTHER

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