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Lead Geologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This Opportunity WSP is currently initiating a search for a Lead Geologist based out of our Wexford, PA office. Be involved in projects with our Earth & Environment Team and be a part of a growing ...

This Opportunity WSP USA is initiating a search for a Lead Geologist for the Greensboro, North Carolina office to be involved in projects with our Earth & Environment Team. The following locations ...

This Opportunity WSP USA is initiating a search for a Lead Geologist for the Greensboro, North Carolina office to be involved in projects with our Earth & Environment Team. The following locations ...

Duties may include site manager, site safety and health officer, lead geologist, sampler, or inspector. * Responsible for daily field operation activities & service order needs being completed in ...

Duties may include site manager, site safety and health officer, lead geologist, sampler, or inspector. * Responsible for daily field operation activities & service order needs being completed in ...

Duties may include site manager, site safety and health officer, lead geologist, sampler, or inspector. * Responsible for daily field operation activities & service order needs being completed in ...

Support and lead geological and hydrogeological investigations associated with municipal solid waste and environmental projects. * Develop and maintain groundwater monitoring programs. * Perform ...

Support and lead geological and hydrogeological investigations associated with municipal solid waste and environmental projects. * Develop and maintain groundwater monitoring programs. * Perform ...

Support and lead geological and hydrogeological investigations associated with municipal solid waste and environmental projects. * Develop and maintain groundwater monitoring programs. * Perform ...

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Lead Geologist information

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$36K

$77K

$124.5K

How much do lead geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead geologist in the United States is $77,030.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $93,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Lead Geologist?

A Lead Geologist is a senior professional responsible for overseeing geological projects, managing teams of geologists, and providing expert advice on geological matters. They analyze geological data, assess potential natural resources, and guide exploration or extraction activities. Lead Geologists often work in industries such as mining, oil and gas, or environmental consulting, ensuring that projects comply with regulations and safety standards. Their role involves both fieldwork and office-based analysis, and they often serve as the main point of contact between technical staff and management.

How does a Lead Geologist typically collaborate with other departments during exploration projects?

A Lead Geologist often works closely with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, environmental scientists, and project managers, to ensure that geological findings are properly integrated into overall project plans. Regular meetings and data-sharing sessions are common, allowing geologists to communicate critical information about site conditions and risks. This collaboration helps optimize resource allocation, streamline permitting processes, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Effective teamwork is essential, as geological insights directly impact project timelines and outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Geologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Geologist, you need advanced expertise in geological sciences, experience in fieldwork, and typically a degree in geology or earth sciences. Familiarity with GIS software, geological mapping tools, and modeling systems, as well as certifications like Professional Geologist (PG), are commonly required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help in managing teams and conveying complex findings to stakeholders. These skills are crucial to ensure accurate geological analysis, effective project management, and informed decision-making in exploration or environmental projects.

What type of geologist gets paid the most?

Petroleum geologists typically earn the highest salaries among geologists due to their work in oil and gas exploration, which often involves high-risk environments and specialized skills. They usually require advanced knowledge of geophysics and seismic interpretation, and salaries can vary based on experience, location, and industry demand.

What is the difference between Lead Geologist vs Geoscientist?

AspectLead GeologistGeoscientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, often with experience; certifications varyBachelor's or higher in Geology, Earth Science, or related field; certifications optional
Work EnvironmentField sites, exploration projects, and office analysisResearch labs, offices, and fieldwork
Employer & Industry UsageMining, oil & gas, environmental consultingResearch institutions, government agencies, consulting firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Lead Geologists typically oversee exploration and project teams, requiring leadership skills and field experience, while Geoscientists focus on research, data analysis, and scientific study. Both roles share educational backgrounds but differ in responsibilities and work settings.

More about Lead Geologist jobs
Infographic showing various Lead Geologist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Part Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,030 per year, or $37 per hour.
Lead Geologist

Lead Geologist

WSP

Wexford, PA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


WSP rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 57 rated business consultants


Job description

This Opportunity

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Lead Geologist based out of our Wexford, PA office. Be involved in projects with our Earth & Environment Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our client's objectives and solves their challenges. From this location, our team of geo-professionals provides services to clients in the oil & gas, transportation, mining, and other industrial sectors.  This position provides an opportunity to join a fast-paced team that provides solutions on geological, civil, geotechnical engineering projects.  The work entails a variety of office-related and outdoor "hands-on" activities, with a need to carefully follow instructions, document activities, solve problems, and provide proactive communication.
We are seeking an engineering geologist with interest in geohazard identification, geotechnical investigation, and geotechnical design. The selected candidate must be comfortable with the use of technology in the practice of geology while working in the field with project teams to support geologic and geotechnical investigations. This position will include opportunities for working on a variety of projects such as linear alignments for pipelines, transportation corridors, and infrastructure siting. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated education, knowledge, or field experience in geohazards and geology of the Appalachian Basin.  As part of a global company, the selected candidate may have the opportunity to work on field assignments beyond the Appalachian Basin.
Your Impact

  • Work with project teams on geotechnical and geological engineering projects that involve field observations, data evaluation, and office work
  • Conduct field assignments, such as site mapping, drilling supervision, borehole logging, test pit logging, site reconnaissance, and construction quality assurance (CQA) monitoring
  • Perform geologic desktop review of LiDAR mapping and field reconnaissance for the identification of geologic hazards using desktop and field-based data collection applications.
  • Contribute to geotechnical data and recommendation reports, with senior technical advice and review. This includes compiling and assisting with evaluation of field investigation data; performing calculations; modeling and tabulating the results; preparing geologic and geotechnical borehole logs, subsurface cross-sections, and groundwater interpretations; and writing reports, permit documents, and cost estimates.
  • Local and national travel (up to 40% of the time) with possible opportunities for long-term assignments at project sites
  • Comply with safety guidelines and site-specific procedures which include but are not limited to, location data, statistical documentation, engineering studies and surveys, and construction. Safely perform work in the office and field; fieldwork may occur out-of-town in all seasonal weather conditions, using equipment (with an ability to lift and move approximately 50 pounds without assistance) and operating vehicles on behalf of the company.
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.


Who You Are

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in geology, engineering geology, or related field
  • 7-10 years of relevant post education experience
  • Excellent research skills with analytical mindset.
  • Familiarity with relevant laws, codes, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.
  • Competent interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to an engineering and non-engineering audience.
  • Proficient self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
  • Ability to work independently under general supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives.
  • Basic proficiency with technical writing, office automation, software, spreadsheets, technology, and tools.
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
  • Occasional travel and ability to be comfortable in remote settings with a willingness to perform a variety of tasks as needed to complete an assignment may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in geology or engineering geology from an ABET accredited program.
  • GIS experience.
  • Experience with collecting field data and samples and using field-based data collection applications.
  • Geologist in Training Certification.
  • Prior position related to the degree of study and the specific geologic discipline.
  • A member of and/or actively participate in local professional practice organizations.

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About WSP

WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.

www.wsp.com

WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.

At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?

WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.

The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.

NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:

WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand.  Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service. 


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