ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Independent Contractor Geology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of Indiana

Geologist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$59K/yr

Ability to work independently while contributing collaboratively within program teams. * High ... Master's degree in geology, hydrogeology, or environmental science. * Is an Indiana Licensed ...

RE/SPEC Inc.

Early Career Geologist

Laconia, NH

Launch Your Geology Career with Hands-On Field Experience - recent graduates are encouraged to ... Collaborating with project managers, geologists, contractors, clients, regulatory agencies, and ...

RE/SPEC Inc.

Early Career Geologist

Lexington, KY

Launch Your Geology Career with Hands-On Field Experience - recent graduates are encouraged to ... Collaborating with project managers, geologists, contractors, clients, regulatory agencies, and ...

State of Indiana

Geologist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$59K/yr

Ability to work independently while contributing collaboratively within program teams. * High ... Master's degree in geology, hydrogeology, or environmental science. * Is an Indiana Licensed ...

RE/SPEC Inc.

Early Career Geologist

Lexington, KY · On-site

Launch Your Geology Career with Hands-On Field Experience - recent graduates are encouraged to ... Collaborating with project managers, geologists, contractors, clients, regulatory agencies, and ...

RE/SPEC Inc.

Early Career Geologist

Laconia, NH · On-site

Launch Your Geology Career with Hands-On Field Experience - recent graduates are encouraged to ... Collaborating with project managers, geologists, contractors, clients, regulatory agencies, and ...

RE/SPEC Inc.

Early Career Geologist

Laconia, NH · On-site

Launch Your Geology Career with Hands-On Field Experience - recent graduates are encouraged to ... Collaborating with project managers, geologists, contractors, clients, regulatory agencies, and ...

RE/SPEC Inc.

Early Career Geologist

Laconia, NH

Launch Your Geology Career with Hands-On Field Experience - recent graduates are encouraged to ... Collaborating with project managers, geologists, contractors, clients, regulatory agencies, and ...

Ivanhoe Electric

Geologist - Gleeson

Sierra Vista, AZ · On-site

... drill contractors in a remote field-based exploration environment. Duties and Responsibilities ... Capable of operating independently and safely with a small team while solving problems and ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All Jobsfreelance JobsScience JobsGeology JobsIndependent Contractor Geology Jobs

Independent Contractor Geology information

See salary details

$394

$1.1K

$2.1K

How much do independent contractor geology jobs pay per week?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average weekly pay for independent contractor geology in the United States is $1,089.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $721.15 and $1,211.54 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an independent contractor geologist?

Independent Contractor Geologists are self-employed professionals who provide geological expertise on a project or contract basis rather than working as permanent employees. They often work with companies in industries such as mining, environmental consulting, oil and gas, or construction, performing tasks like site assessments, resource evaluations, and geotechnical studies. These contractors manage their own business operations, including contracts, invoicing, and taxes, and are typically responsible for providing their own equipment and insurance.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an independent contractor geologist?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Geologist, you need a solid background in earth sciences, geological fieldwork, and data analysis, often backed by a relevant degree and professional certification such as a Professional Geologist (PG) license. Familiarity with GIS software, geological mapping tools, and remote sensing systems is typically required. Strong communication, project management, and self-motivation are crucial soft skills for managing client relationships and working independently. These competencies are essential for delivering accurate geoscientific insights, meeting client needs, and maintaining a successful independent practice.

What are common challenges faced by independent contractor geologists when working with multiple clients?

Independent Contractor Geologists often need to juggle the priorities and timelines of several clients simultaneously, which can present project management and communication challenges. Ensuring clear agreements on deliverables, maintaining consistent quality standards, and adapting to different client requirements are key aspects of the role. Additionally, contractors must stay up to date with industry regulations and best practices to provide accurate, compliant work across various projects. Building strong relationships and setting realistic expectations with clients can help manage these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Geology vs Geologist?

AspectIndependent Contractor GeologyGeologist
CredentialsTypically requires a geology degree and relevant certifications, but independent status affects licensing requirementsRequires a geology degree, state licensure, and professional certification
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed, project-based, often remote or on-site at various locationsEmployed by companies, government agencies, or labs, often in office or field settings
Employer & Industry UsageHired by clients or firms as an independent contractor for specific projectsWorks for organizations as a full-time or part-time employee
Search & Comparison IntentCommonly compared for freelance work options and project flexibilityCompared for career roles and employment benefits

In summary, Independent Contractor Geology operates as a self-employed professional handling specific projects, while a Geologist is typically employed by an organization with a focus on ongoing responsibilities and licensure requirements.

More about Independent Contractor Geology jobs

What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Geology jobs?

Cities with the most Independent Contractor Geology job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Geology jobs?

The most popular types of Geology jobs are:

What states have the most Independent Contractor Geology jobs?

States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Geology jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Geology jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Geology jobs are:

Independent Contractor Geology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Geology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,645 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Geologist

State of Indiana

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$59K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

State Of Indiana rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 189 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 50 rated states

Job description

 Work for Indiana

Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.

About Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM):
Our mission is to implement federal and state regulations to protect human health and the environment while allowing the environmentally sound operations of industrial, agricultural, commercial, and governmental activities vital to a prosperous economy.  We issue air, water, and solid and hazardous waste permits that restrict discharges to environmentally safe levels. Staff members inspect and monitor regulated entities; provide compliance and technical assistance; monitor and assess air, land, and water quality; use enforcement actions as necessary to ensure compliance; and respond to incidents involving spills to soil or waters of the state.

Role Overview: 

The Geologist 2 serves as a technical specialist within the Geological Services Section, providing advanced geological expertise to support IDEM’s mission of protecting human health and the environment. This position assists in the characterization and remediation of uncontrolled waste and spill sites by performing and evaluating complex geological, environmental, engineering, and hydrogeologic work. The Geologist 2 supports regulatory decision‑making and contributes to restoring contaminated properties to safe and productive use.

Core Competencies:

  • Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.
  • Proficiency interpreting complex geological, hydrogeologic, and environmental data.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills across technical and non technical audiences.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing collaboratively within program teams.
  • High attention to detail and accuracy in technical work products.
  • Understanding of environmental regulations related to site investigation and cleanup activities.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in geology or a related geoscience field.
  • Relevant professional experience in geology, hydrogeology, environmental geology, or related work.
  • Valid Indiana driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in geology, hydrogeology, or environmental science.
  • Is an Indiana Licensed Professional Geologist (LPG).
  • Experience working with contaminated site assessments, remediation projects, or regulatory programs.
  • Familiarity with IDEM guidance, OLQ procedures, and state/federal environmental regulations.
  • Experience using GIS tools, geological modeling software, or environmental data analysis platforms.

Salary:

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $59,800.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.

A Day in the Life:

The essential functions of this role are as follows: 

  • Provide geologic consultation utilizing technical expertise regarding engineering geology, hydrogeology, and geology. 
  • Understand, interpret, and employ applicable State and Federal regulatory rules, guidance, and policies related to geological investigations and contaminant remediation. 
  • Lead or assist field teams during site investigations. 
  • Evaluate and assist in developing geologically related plans and documents. 
  • Develop and write technical reports and correspondence including tabulating and interpreting data for reports. 
  • Follow proper sampling procedures and use appropriate geophysical and other field techniques. 
  • Review and evaluate technical guidance documents, reports, journals, and related articles. 
  • Determine historic geologic and hydrogeologic conditions utilizing agency files. 
  • Assist in geological enforcement actions. 
  • Provide technical assistance to other staff, state and federal agencies, industries, contractors, and the public.  

These additional duties may be performed if this position is at the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) 

  • Perform complex data analysis and interpretation to determine locations and extent of underground sources of drinking water. 

These additional duties may be performed if this position is at the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) 

  • Work with the Testing Team to report findings and make recommendations of construction material aggregates and soils for highway construction. Research/investigate into construction contracts that do not comply with specifications. 
  • Administer INDOT’s Certified Aggregate Producers Program (CAPP) program at the District level. Regulate and monitor all aggregate sources assigned to the District and ensure compliance with Department specifications and guidelines.

The job profile is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

This position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours which may be required to complete essential functions or other assigned work. Exempt employees may work more than 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and must report a minimum of 75 hours per pay period of work hours and/or paid leave taken to receive their base biweekly salary.

What You'll Need for Success:

Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:

  • Licensed Professional Geologist in Indiana preferred. 
  • Extensive knowledge of the principles, practices, theories, and methodologies applied to geologic/hydrogeologic science and related fields. 
  • Thorough knowledge of and the ability to interpret and apply all applicable federal and state laws, environmental regulations, acts, and guidelines. 
  • Extensive knowledge of applied statistics, environmental design, geologic sampling, and   interpretation of geologic analysis. 
  • Thorough knowledge of remedial and corrective action as it relates to various program areas. 
  • Ability to conduct intensive research for geologic and hydrogeological advancement of the program area. 
  • Ability to determine resolutions and new approaches to various geotechnical problems. 
  • Specialized knowledge of geophysical instrumentation including Electro magnetometer, Resistivity Meter, and Seismograph. 
  • Specialized knowledge of well hydraulics, ground water modeling, drinking water management, waste and wastewater management, and related regulations. 

Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Geology, Geophysics, Geochemistry, Geological Engineer, or Geotechnical Engineering from an accredited college or university.

Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

You must meet the following requirements to be considered for employment with the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT):

  • Knowledge of American Association of State Highway Transportation (AASHTO), American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM), Indiana Test Methods, and INDOT specifications. 
  • Working knowledge of, and ability to operate, geologic field instruments and construction testing equipment such as LWD, DCPT, etc. 
  • Working knowledge of survey and mapping techniques.
Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.

Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:

The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes: 

  • Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
  • Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
  • Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
  • Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
  • Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
  • A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
    • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
    • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
  • Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
  • 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Group life insurance
  • Referral Bonus program
  • Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
  • Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Free Parking for most positions
  • Free LinkedIn Learning access

Equal Employment Opportunity:

The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.

What State Of Indiana employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply