1

Lead Geologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Geologist

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$185 - $250/hr

Role We are seeking a Senior Geologist to help lead geological interpretation and mineral systems modeling efforts that support Terra AI's exploration workflows. In this role, you will work closely ...

Senior Geologist

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$185K - $250K/yr

Role We are seeking a Senior Geologist to help lead geological interpretation and mineral systems modeling efforts that support Terra AI's exploration workflows. In this role, you will work closely ...

Lead and supervise the Mine Geology and Ore Control teams (geologists, technicians, samplers); ensure contemporary training, competency, and an inclusive, high-performance culture * Oversee daily ...

This person will also focus on QA/QC processes and lead the ore control workflow and reconciliation tracking. Reporting to the Principal Geologist, the Geologist will collaborate closely with mining ...

This person will also focus on QA/QC processes and lead the ore control workflow and reconciliation tracking. Reporting to the Principal Geologist, the Geologist will collaborate closely with mining ...

Geologist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$59K/yr

The Geologist 2 serves as a technical specialist within the Geological Services Section, providing ... Lead or assist field teams during site investigations. * Evaluate and assist in developing ...

Geologist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$59K/yr

The Geologist 2 supports regulatory decision-making and contributes to restoring contaminated ... Lead or assist field teams during site investigations. * Evaluate and assist in developing ...

Geologist

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$63K - $80K/yr

Geologist Hanson Professional Services Inc. is seeking a candidate for a Geologist or Geological ... Lead in field safety and quality control. * Develop geo-material design parameters, conduct ...

Geologist

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$63K - $80K/yr

Geologist Hanson Professional Services Inc. is seeking a candidate for a Geologist or Geological ... Lead in field safety and quality control. * Develop geo-material design parameters, conduct ...

Collaborates with the EUSEF co-project lead in the Geology, Energy, and Minerals Science Center (GEMSC), CERSC management, and the ERP Program Coordinator to formulate and modify, if needed, project ...

Project Geologist

Elko, NV · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

You will lead field programs from target generation through drilling execution and data interpretation , ensuring that all geological, geochemical, and spatial data are collected and integrated ...

Showing results 21-40

Lead Geologist information

See salary details

$36K

$77K

$124.5K

How much do lead geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 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.

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

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.

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 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.

Do lead geologists make good money?

Lead geologists typically earn a high salary due to their expertise and experience in the field, with median annual wages often exceeding $100,000. Salaries can vary based on industry, location, and level of responsibility, and advanced certifications or specialized skills can increase earning potential.

Is there a high demand for lead geologists?

Lead geologists are in steady demand in the mining, oil and gas, and environmental consulting industries due to their expertise in subsurface analysis and resource evaluation. Employment opportunities often depend on industry activity, commodity prices, and regional exploration projects, with strong demand in resource-rich areas and companies valuing advanced geological skills and certifications. Overall, the role remains a critical part of resource development and environmental assessment teams.
More about Lead Geologist jobs

Who are the top companies hiring for Lead Geologist jobs?

The top employers for Lead Geologist jobs are:

Infographic showing various Lead Geologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,030 per year, or $37 per hour.

Senior Geologist

Terra AI

Redwood City, CA • On-site

$185 - $250/hr

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Terra AI is building a new category at the intersection of artificial intelligence, geoscience, and critical resource development. As global demand for copper, lithium, nickel, rare earth elements, geothermal energy, and other strategic resources accelerates, the mining and subsurface industries face a growing challenge: traditional exploration methods remain slow, expensive, and highly uncertain. Terra AI was founded to help solve this problem by redefining how critical resources are discovered, evaluated, and developed. By combining advanced machine learning, probabilistic modeling, and deep geoscience expertise, Terra AI helps exploration and mining companies make faster, more informed subsurface decisions with greater confidence and capital efficiency. The company’s platform integrates geological, geophysical, and drilling data into intelligent systems designed to improve targeting accuracy, accelerate discovery timelines, and reduce exploration risk. Backed by leading investors including Khosla Ventures and working alongside strategic industry partners including Rio Tinto, Ero Copper, and Ramaco Resources, Terra AI is emerging as one of the more closely watched AI-native companies operating within the mining and critical minerals sector. Terra AI’s mission is to define the new global standard for data-driven critical resource development — breaking the cost and time curve required to support electrification, energy security, and the global energy transition. The company operates with a strong partnership mentality, combining technical rigor, candid communication, continual learning, and environmental stewardship to help modern exploration teams solve some of the world’s most important resource challenges.

Role

We are seeking a Senior Geologist to help lead geological interpretation and mineral systems modeling efforts that support Terra AI’s exploration workflows. In this role, you will work closely with geologists, geophysicists, and machine learning engineers to integrate complex geological datasets into modern exploration models supporting critical minerals discovery.

  • Interpret and integrate geological, geochemical, and geophysical datasets across multiple scales
  • Build robust mineral systems and exploration models supporting probabilistic targeting workflows
  • Support geological feature engineering and modern computational exploration workflows
  • QA/QC historical and modern exploration datasets to improve modeling confidence
  • Collaborate closely with internal and external technical teams across geology, geophysics, and engineering
  • Produce technical reports, visualizations, and exploration recommendations for global projects
  • Provide geological expertise to support the automation and improvement of exploration workflows
Qualifications
  • Experience in economic geology, mineral exploration, or mine development
  • Strong experience in critical minerals and base metals geology
  • Proficiency with GIS and 3D geological modeling software
  • Experience integrating geological and exploration datasets into cohesive exploration models
  • Strong understanding of geochemistry and mineralization systems
  • Exposure to computational geology, geostatistics, remote sensing, or AI-enabled exploration workflows is considered beneficial
Compensation

$185,000- $250,000 + Equity

In accordance with California law, Terra AI provides a good faith base salary range for roles that may be performed in California. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, skills, and market considerations. In addition to base salary, total compensation may include performance bonus opportunities, equity participation, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Terra AI is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

#J-18808-Ljbffr