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Geology Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Technical knowledge: apply foundational geology/science principles to support site investigations, environmental sampling, and data collection. Assist in the analysis of environmental data and ...

Technical knowledge: apply foundational geology/science principles to support site investigations, environmental sampling, and data collection. Assist in the analysis of environmental data and ...

S. in Geology, Environmental Science, Earth Science, Environmental Chemistry, or closely related field. 3+ years of professional environmental experience.Applicable due diligence experience in ...

S. in Geology, Environmental Science, Earth Science, Environmental Chemistry, or closely related field. * 3+ years of professional environmental experience. * Applicable due diligence experience in ...

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Geology information

See Minnesota salary details

$35.3K

$75.4K

$121.9K

How much do geology jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for geology in Minnesota is $75,444.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,800.00 and $91,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a geologist do?

Geologists study the Earth, including its materials, processes, physical structure, and history. They analyze rocks, minerals, and fossils to understand how the planet has changed over time and to predict future geological events. Geologists often work in the field collecting samples, in laboratories conducting tests, and sometimes consult on construction projects, environmental issues, or resource exploration. Their work is vital in identifying natural resources, assessing natural hazards, and helping protect the environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geologist?

To thrive as a Geologist, you need a solid background in earth sciences, geological mapping, and data analysis, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in geology or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, remote sensing tools, and laboratory analysis techniques is commonly required, along with certifications like Professional Geologist (PG) in some regions. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help geologists excel in both fieldwork and reporting findings. These skills are crucial for accurately interpreting geological data, ensuring safety, and supporting resource management or environmental projects.

Where do geologists work?

Geologists can work in a wide range of settings in a variety of industries. Almost all geology careers require a mixture of field work, office work, and lab sessions. As a geologist, you may work at a university or other research institution to study changes in rock formations or soil content. If you choose a corporate career path, you can work in the energy industry, construction, or mining. Government and environmental organizations often hire staff geologists to study the environmental effects of different projects. You may also work in a very specialized field, such as mud logging, which involves assessing the content of boreholes.

What are common challenges a geologist faces when working in the field, and how can they be addressed?

Geologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to remote sites while conducting fieldwork. To address these issues, they must prepare thoroughly by reviewing site conditions, bringing appropriate gear, and coordinating closely with team members for safety. Additionally, adapting data collection methods and maintaining flexibility in scheduling can help manage unforeseen obstacles. Communication with colleagues and clear planning are essential for overcoming these common challenges.

What is the difference between Geology vs Geophysics?

AspectGeologyGeophysics
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Geology, often with certificationsBachelor's or higher in Geophysics or related field, often with certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, labs, offices, often outdoorsFieldwork, labs, offices, often outdoors
Industry UsageMining, environmental consulting, oil & gas, academiaOil & gas, mineral exploration, environmental studies
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding earth materials, landforms, resourcesStudying Earth's physical properties, subsurface structures

Both Geology and Geophysics involve studying Earth's processes, but Geology focuses on rocks, minerals, and landforms, while Geophysics emphasizes Earth's physical properties using physics-based methods. They share similar work environments and credentials, but their applications differ based on industry needs.

What jobs can you get in geology?

Geology offers a variety of careers including roles such as geologist, environmental consultant, petroleum geologist, hydrogeologist, and mining analyst. These jobs often require fieldwork, data analysis, and knowledge of geological tools and software, with opportunities in industries like energy, environmental protection, and natural resource exploration.

What kind of work does a geologist do?

A geologist studies the Earth's materials, processes, and history to understand its structure and composition. They conduct fieldwork, analyze rock and soil samples, and use tools like microscopes and geological maps to assess natural resources, hazards, and environmental conditions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Geology jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Geology jobs in Minnesota are:

What job categories do people searching Geology jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Geology jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Geology jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Geology job openings:

Infographic showing various Geology job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,444 per year, or $36.3 per hour.

Supervisory Interdisciplinary (Civil Engineer/Geologist)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

$116K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 538 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

About the Position:
This position is with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul District, Engineering and Construction Division (E&C). The St. Paul District E&C designs water resource projects to benefit the people of Minnesota, western Wisconsin, northeastern North Dakota, portions of South Dakota and Iowa, and the nation. These projects support inland navigation, flood risk management, and environmental restoration. E&C also provides emergency response to disasters.Qualifications:Who May Apply: Only applicants who meet one of the employment authority categories below are eligible to apply for this job. You will be asked to identify which category or categories you meet, and to provide documents which prove you meet the category or categories you selected. See Proof of Eligibility for an extensive list of document requirements for all employment authorities.
In order to qualify, you must meet the education and experience requirements described below. 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). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Basic Requirement for Supervisory Civil Engineer:
A. Degree: Bachelor's degree (or higher degree) in engineering. To be acceptable, the program must: (1) lead to a bachelor's degree (or higher degree) in a school of engineering with at least one program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET); OR (2) include differential and integral calculus and courses (more advanced than first-year physics and chemistry) in five of the following seven areas of engineering science or physics: (a) statics, dynamics; (b) strength of materials (stress-strain relationships); (c) fluid mechanics, hydraulics; (d) thermodynamics; (e) electrical fields and circuits; (f) nature and properties of materials (relating particle and aggregate structure to properties); and (g) any other comparable area of fundamental engineering science or physics, such as optics, heat transfer, soil mechanics, or electronics.
OR
B. Combination of Education and Experience: College-level education, training, and/or technical experience that furnished (1) a thorough knowledge of the physical and mathematical sciences underlying engineering, and (2) a good understanding, both theoretical and practical, of the engineering sciences and techniques and their applications to one of the branches of engineering. See https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0800/files/all-professional-engineering-positions-0800.pdf for more detail on acceptable combinations.
Basic Requirement for Supervisory Geologist:
A.
Degree: Bachelor's degree (or higher degree) 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
B.
Combination of Education and Experience: Course work as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.(Note: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. 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. 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 one of the basic requirements above, you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:
GS-13
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes meeting all of the following: 1) Study the designing of civil
works projects such as foundations, soils, and/or material aspects of earth or rock structures; 2) apply professional engineering methods for the design of large or complex Civil Works projects; and 3) lead engineers or geologists in completion of planning, design, and/or construction support. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-12).
"Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience alone--no substitution of education for experience is permitted".
Selective Placement Factor: The duties of this position require the incumbent to possess and maintain license/registration as a Professional Engineer and/or Professional Geologist. This license/registration must be in good standing and issued by any one of the 50 states, or its territories: (Note: You are required to submit your up-to-date license from any state or territory with your applicant package.)Education:FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER

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