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Geology Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Manage and perform engineering geology assignments involving subsurface investigations and geologic site characterization for a variety of facilities including, but not limited to: embankments and ...

Geologist

Lorton, VA ยท On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

Bachelor's degree and 3+ years of experience in geology or earth science, or 7+ years of experience in geology or earth science in lieu of a degree Nice If You Have: * Knowledge of foreign defense ...

Posted today

Geologist

Annandale, VA ยท On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

Bachelor's degree and 3+ years of experience in geology or earth science, or 7+ years of experience in geology or earth science in lieu of a degree Nice If You Have: * Knowledge of foreign defense ...

Posted today

Geologist

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

Bachelor's degree and 3+ years of experience in geology or earth science, or 7+ years of experience in geology or earth science in lieu of a degree Nice If You Have: * Knowledge of foreign defense ...

Posted today

Geologist

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

Bachelor's degree and 3+ years of experience in geology or earth science, or 7+ years of experience in geology or earth science in lieu of a degree Nice If You Have: * Knowledge of foreign defense ...

Posted today

Geologist

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

Bachelor's degree and 3+ years of experience in geology or earth science, or 7+ years of experience in geology or earth science in lieu of a degree Nice If You Have: * Knowledge of foreign defense ...

Posted today

Geologist

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

Bachelor's degree and 3+ years of experience in geology or earth science, or 7+ years of experience in geology or earth science in lieu of a degree Nice If You Have: * Knowledge of foreign defense ...

Posted today

Geologist I

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Geology, Hydrogeology, Geophysics, Geological/Geotechnical Engineering or a related field. * Ability to work within a team environment. * Excellent written and oral communication ...

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Showing results 1-20

Geology information

See Virginia salary details

$35.7K

$76.4K

$123.4K

How much do geology jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for geology in Virginia is $76,370.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,500.00 and $92,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Geology jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Geology jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Geology jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Geology job openings:

Infographic showing various Geology job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Internship, 69% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,370 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Geology Adjunct Instructors

J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College

Richmond, VA โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Summary
Working Title
Geology Adjunct Instructors
Role Title
Geology Adjunct Instructors
Role Code
FLSA
Exempt
Pay Band
UG
Position Number
283A00000
Agency
J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College
Division
J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College (Div)
Work Location
Henrico - 087
Hiring Range
Adjunct faculty are paid based on a per-credit-hour rate. This rate is determined by the assigned rank and the discipline being taught. Assigned rank is based on a combination of education and teaching experience.
Emergency/Essential Personnel
No
EEO Category
I-Faculty
Full Time or Part Time
Part Time
Does this position have telework options? -Telework options are subject to change based on business needs-
Does this position have a bilingual or multilingual skill requirement or preference?
Work Schedule
Classes may be on-campus or online, day or evening, depending on college needs.
Sensitive Position
No
Job Description
Reynolds is one of the largest community colleges in Virginia and serves Virginia's capital city and five nearby counties. Annually, our four campus sites serve approximately 13,000 credit students and provide training for 7,400 students through the Community College Workforce Alliance. Reynolds is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse, culturally competent staff at all levels of the organization who reflect the demographics of our students. We also believe in providing an ongoing investment in our faculty and staff to deepen their skills and competencies to serve the full range of our student population.
Reynolds is seeking part-time adjunct instructors to teach day and evening classes in Geology.
Special Assignments
May be required to perform other duties as assigned. May be required to assist the agency or state government generally in the event of an emergency declaration by the Governor.
KSA's/Required Qualifications
Master's degree in Geology, Geoscience, or Earth Sciences; or a Master's degree with eighteen (18) graduate semester hours in Geology, Geoscience, or Earth Sciences.
Additional Considerations
  • Teaching experience in college-level physical and/or historical geology courses, preferably within a community college setting is preferred. Field experience is preferred.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills; and the ability to work with a diverse population of students, faculty, and staff.
  • Demonstrated ability to employ multiple teaching strategies to create student-centered classrooms and incorporate technology routinely into instructional and faculty responsibilities.
  • Online course instruction experience and/or training is also preferred.

Operation of a State Vehicle
No
Supervises Employees
No
Required Travel
May be asked to teach on any of the college's campuses.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
ADJ_2901P
Recruitment Type
General Public - G
Number of Vacancies
Multiple
Position End Date (if temporary)
Job Open Date
01/01/2026
Job Close Date
12/31/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Agency Website
www.reynolds.edu
Contact Name
Email
employment@reynolds.edu
Phone Number
Special Instructions to Applicants
This applicant pool will be utilized on an as-needed basis. Your application will remain active until the position is no longer needed. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.For full consideration, the cover letter, resume or curriculum vitae, and unofficial transcripts must be received with the online application. Official transcripts will be required upon hire. Reynolds does not accept employment applications by mail, e-mail or fax.
Additional Information
J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College does not discriminate on the basis of age (except when age is a bona fide occupational qualification); color; disability; gender identity or expression; genetic information; military service; national origin; political affiliation; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including lactation; race (or traits historically associated with race including hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists); religion; sex; sexual orientation; veterans status, or any other non-merit based factor in its employment opportunities, programs, services, and activities.
Background Check Statement Disclaimer
The selected candidate's offer is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background investigation, which may include: fingerprint checks, local agency checks, employment verification, verification of education, credit checks (relevant to employment). Additionally, selected candidates may be required to complete the Commonwealth's Statement of Economic Interest. For more information, please follow this link: http://ethics.dls.virginia.gov/
EEO Statement
The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, political affiliation, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or other non-merit factors.
ADA Statement
The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Acts (ADA and ADAAA), to provide, reasonable accommodation to applicants in need of access to the application, interviewing, and selection processes when requested.
E-Verify Statement
VCCS uses E-Verify to check employee eligibility to work in the United States. You will be required to complete an I-9 form and provide documentation of your identity for employment purposes.
Quicklink for Posting
https://jobs.vccs.edu/postings/91671