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Geology Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

Ayres' team of national dam safety experts is seeking a senior geotechnical/geological engineer with a proven track record of managing and successfully executing dam rehabilitation and dam analysis ...

Bachelor and/or Master of Science in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, Geology, or similar is required * No experience required * A professional license is not required in this position but ...

Bachelor and/or Master of Science in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, Geology, or similar is required * No experience required * A professional license is not required in this position but ...

Hydrogeologist/Hydrologist

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Master's degree in Water Resources Engineering, Geology, or a related field, with 2+ years of experience in water resources or hydrogeology, preferably supporting mining applications * Experience ...

Master's degree in Water Resources Engineering, Geology, or a related field, with 2+ years of experience in water resources or hydrogeology, preferably supporting mining applications * Experience ...

Geology information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$35.1K

$75.2K

$121.5K

How much do geology jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for geology in Appleton, WI is $75,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,600.00 and $90,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying geology job?

The highest paying geology jobs are often in executive roles such as Chief Geologist or Geoscience Director, or in specialized consulting positions for energy and mineral companies. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and often involve leadership responsibilities, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually.

What jobs fall under geology?

Jobs in geology include roles such as geologist, hydrogeologist, environmental consultant, petroleum geologist, and mining geologist. These positions often require skills in fieldwork, data analysis, and knowledge of geological tools and software, with many roles involving field investigations and reporting.

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 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 pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of geology, high-paying roles such as senior geoscientists, exploration managers, or executives in energy and mineral companies can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require specialized skills, industry connections, and sometimes work in remote or challenging environments.

What do geologists 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 some 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 popular job titles related to Geology jobs in Appleton, WI? For Geology jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Geology jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Geology job openings:
Infographic showing various Geology job openings in Appleton, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,160 per year, or $36.1 per hour.
Geotechnical Engineer

Geotechnical Engineer

Ayres Associates Inc

Green Bay, WI

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Ayres’ team of national dam safety experts is seeking a senior geotechnical/geological engineer with a proven track record of managing and successfully executing dam rehabilitation and dam analysis projects, particularly for dams regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). This position desires an entrepreneurial mindset to support our growing national practice in FERC Part 12D inspections, comprehensive assessments with risk analyses, and dam rehabilitation projects.

The successful candidate will be a registered professional engineer in geotechnical/geological engineering (civil in states not having a separate geotechnical/geological engineering registration) and have demonstrated expertise in completing saturated and unsaturated slope stability analyses, seepage analyses, settlement and crest deformation analyses, seismic and static liquefaction screening analyses, filter compatibility checks, bearing capacity analyses, and other similar advanced geotechnical computations.

Join Ayres – a USA TODAY Top Workplace recognized in both 2025 and 2026 – where people-first leadership, collaboration, and professional growth create an environment where great teams do their best work.

On any given day, you’ll:

  • Take the lead in identifying marketing opportunities and work collaboratively to win projects from utilities with FERC hydropower licenses, especially risk assessments and Part 12D related work.
  • Manage projects, oversee design and production of plans and specifications, and ensure that the work is produced on schedule, profitably, and in conformance with the quality standards of Ayres.
  • Build and maintain respectful working relationships with Project Managers and other leaders within the company.
  • Support and participate in the development and mentorship of staff.
  • Actively engage in professional organizations.

Required Qualifications:

  • A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering (geotechnical or geological engineering emphasis) from an accredited university is the minimum requirement. A master’s degree in geotechnical/geological engineering is preferred.
  • Registered professional engineer (PE) in a US state with ability to become licensed by comity in multiple states where Ayres has offices.
  • A minimum of 10 years of experience in the field of geotechnical/geological engineering. Previous experience in completing designs and submitting approved analyses for dams at FERC projects is highly desirable.
  • Ability to independently manage projects with budgets of 250 to 2000 hours of engineering time.
  • Working knowledge of FERC, US Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, and similar industry standards for geotechnical analyses of dam and spillway structures.
  • Experience providing geotechnical engineering support for structural design.
  • Proficient in GeoStudio SLOPE/W and SEEP/W, or other industry-standard slope stability and seepage modeling tools.
  • Experience overseeing geotechnical field exploration and laboratory testing programs, especially for embankment dams.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
  • Proven communication skills, including great client relationships and a willingness to market services to internal and external clients.
  • A valid driver’s license and good driving record.

Desired Skills and Experiences:

  • A professional geologist registration and experience with dam foundations in various terrains.
  • Experience participating in FERC PFMA and L2RA workshops.
  • Experience establishing mutually respectful, collaborative relationships with utility owners, contractors, and staff representing the FERC Division of Dam Safety.
  • Located within commuting distance of Ayres’ Eau Claire, Green Bay, Roseville, Madison, Fort Collins, or Waukesha offices.

Benefits of being part of the Ayres team:

  • Health, dental, and vision Insurance.
  • Short and long-term disability and life insurance.
  • Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) and 401K with company match.
  • PTO, paid holidays including two floating holidays, and a flexible work schedule.
  • Professional development opportunities.

Please note, benefits vary depending on job status. To learn more about our great benefits, visit our website at https://www.ayresassociates.com/careers/the-ayres-advantage/

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer