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Offshore Geology Jobs in Los Angeles, CA (NOW HIRING)

Offshore Geology information

See Los Angeles, CA salary details

$38.8K

$83K

$134.2K

How much do offshore geology jobs pay per year?

As of May 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for offshore geology in Los Angeles, CA is $83,001.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,300.00 and $100,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Offshore Geologist, you need a strong background in geology or earth sciences, typically with a bachelor's or master's degree and experience in marine environments. Familiarity with seismic interpretation software, GIS tools, and data analysis platforms is usually required, along with relevant offshore certifications such as BOSIET. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for accurately interpreting geological data, ensuring operational safety, and supporting successful exploration projects in challenging offshore settings.

What are the main challenges faced by offshore geologists when collecting and analyzing geological data at sea?

Offshore geologists often contend with challenging weather conditions, limited accessibility to remote locations, and the need to operate specialized equipment aboard vessels. Data collection at sea requires careful coordination with marine crews and adherence to strict safety protocols. Additionally, interpreting geological samples and seismic data in real-time can be demanding, as decisions must often be made quickly to optimize drilling operations or exploration efforts. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, such as engineers and geophysicists, is essential to ensure accurate data analysis and project success.

What is offshore geology?

Offshore geology is the study of the structure, composition, and processes of the Earth’s subsurface beneath bodies of water such as seas and oceans. Offshore geologists analyze marine sediments, rock formations, and underwater landforms to understand geological history, identify natural resources like oil and gas, and assess environmental impacts. Their work often supports industries such as energy exploration, marine engineering, and environmental conservation. Offshore geology relies on techniques like seismic surveys, core sampling, and remote sensing to gather data from beneath the seafloor.

What is the difference between Offshore Geology vs Marine Geology?

AspectOffshore GeologyMarine Geology
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Geology, Geosciences, or Earth SciencesBachelor's or higher in Geology, Geosciences, or Earth Sciences
Work EnvironmentOffshore oil rigs, seismic survey vessels, coastal areasUnderwater research sites, ocean floors, coastal regions
Industry UsageOil & gas exploration, offshore constructionAcademic research, environmental assessment, resource exploration

Offshore Geology and Marine Geology share similar educational backgrounds and often work in overlapping environments. However, Offshore Geology primarily focuses on oil and gas exploration in offshore settings, while Marine Geology emphasizes studying ocean floors and marine processes for research and environmental purposes.

What are popular job titles related to Offshore Geology jobs in Los Angeles, CA? For Offshore Geology jobs in Los Angeles, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Offshore Geology jobs in Los Angeles, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Offshore Geology jobs in Los Angeles, CA are:
What cities near Los Angeles, CA are hiring for Offshore Geology jobs? Cities near Los Angeles, CA with the most Offshore Geology job openings:
Infographic showing various Offshore Geology job openings in Los Angeles, CA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 71% Physical, 10% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,001 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

Marine Services - Southern California (Expression of Interest)

David Evans & Associates Inc

Valencia, CA

$187.20K - $198K/yr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Marine Services - Southern California (Expression of Interest)

Marine Jobs with David Evans and Associates:

David Evans and Associates, Inc. (DEA) is an award-winning leader in hydrographic and geophysical surveying. Our Marine Services division is staffed by a highly experienced team of hydrographers, surveyors, engineers, and scientists who bring deep expertise in oceanography, marine geology and geophysics, geodesy, and geospatial science. We pride ourselves on developing innovative field programs and geospatial products tailored to client needs.

We are looking to connect with talented professionals who share our passion for precision, innovation, and the marine environment as we explore opportunities to expand in the Southern California market.

This posting is an Expression of Interest; it is not a live opening. By joining our talent community, you'll be among the first considered when new opportunities arise. This talent pool will be regularly reviewed and if you are a fit for a potential role, a recruiter will contact you regarding next steps and how to formally apply to an opening.

About the Marine Services Team

Our team works at the intersection of engineering, science, and technology to deliver accurate hydrographic data and marine surveying services for a wide variety of clients. We partner closely with NOAA, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, local Ports throughout California, and offshore developers to ensure safe navigation, resilient infrastructure, and sustainable marine development.

Typical projects may include:

  • Port hydrographic surveys to support safe navigation, permitting and design

  • Seafloor mapping to support coastal and offshore development

  • Environmental and habitat assessments

  • Subsea utility and infrastructure mapping and inspection surveys

Typical Roles in Marine Services at David Evans & Associates

We anticipate potential opportunities across a range of positions, including but not limited to:

  • Senior Hydrographers: Leading single-beam, multibeam, and side-scan sonar surveys; processing and validating hydrographic data; supporting project deliverables, ensuring project accuracy, preparing map products and technical reports, and ensuring compliance with NOAA, USACE, and industry standards.

  • Project Managers and Senior Technical Specialists: Overseeing survey operations, managing client relationships with agencies like NOAA, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and local California Ports, and delivering technical excellence.

  • Business Development / Seller-Doers: Strengthening DEA's presence in the Southern California market by building lasting client relationships, pursuing new opportunities, and positioning DEA as a trusted partner for Port and agency work.

What You Bring

The Marine Services team values a mix of field expertise, consulting mindset, and technical skills. Common qualifications and strengths include:

  • Hands-on experience with hydrographic survey technologies (single-beam, multibeam, side-scan sonar).

  • Knowledge of positioning systems, tide gauges, and motion reference units.

  • Familiarity with processing software such as CARIS, HYPACK, or Qimera.

  • Experience in the AEC or private industry consulting environment, with an ability to deliver high-quality work while balancing client expectations, budgets, and schedules.

  • Strong teamwork skills and an interest in collaborating across disciplines.

  • Established or emerging business development skills, including the ability to build and maintain relationships with agencies and clients such as NOAA, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and local California Ports.

  • A commitment to safety, quality, and delivering innovative solutions.

Why DEA
  • A people-first culture where collaboration, respect, and growth are core.

  • Opportunities to work on impactful projects shaping coastlines, ports, and waterways.

  • Strong commitment to professional development and career progression.

  • A reputation for technical excellence and trusted partnerships in the AEC industry.

Salary and Benefits

The anticipated salary range for Marine Services positions in California is approximately $187,200 - $198,000 annually. Actual compensation will vary based on role, level, experience, qualifications, and work location.

Ready to Express Interest?

If you'd like to be considered for future opportunities with our Marine Services team in Southern California, please submit your resume today. We look forward to learning more about your skills and interests and will be in touch when roles that align with your background become available.


If you are a recruiter, search agency, or otherwise wish to refer a candidate to DEA, you will not be compensated in any way for your referral of a candidate to DEA without an active and signed written agreement in place in advance with DEA Human Resources. Any resume submitted to any DEA employee by an external recruiter without a written agreement in place at the time of submission will be considered the property of DEA and DEA will not be liable for the payment of a placement fee. If you would like to notify DEA of your interest in initiating a written agreement for services or to resumes, please e-mailcareers@deainc.com.

Employment Type: REG