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Petroleum Geologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Diamondbackenergy

Geologist

Midland, TX · On-site

Minimum 5 years experience as a petroleum geologist. * Resource play experience * Experience with horizontal drilling and well operations; unconventional resource assessment and characterization ...

Strata, LLC

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GEOLOGIST/ENGINEER I/II - UIC / GIS

Wichita, KS · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Master's degree in Geology, Petroleum Geology, Geologic Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Civil Engineering, or similar degree from accredited university. (preferred) * Commitment to obtain ...

USM

Petroleum Geophysicist

Lakewood, CO

Must understand petroleum-related business organization structures of all types and sizes, and have experience gathering and evaluating a business technical data. Must have a thorough grasp of a ...

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Petroleum Geologist information

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$46K

$88.3K

$142.5K

How much do petroleum geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for petroleum geologist in the United States is $88,266.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $128,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Petroleum Geologist, you need a strong background in geology, geophysics, and sedimentology, typically supported by a degree in geology or earth sciences. Familiarity with seismic interpretation software, geological mapping tools, and data analysis platforms such as Petrel or GeoGraphix is crucial. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and tools are vital for accurately identifying hydrocarbon reserves and optimizing exploration and production strategies.

What are some typical challenges a petroleum geologist faces when working on exploration projects?

Petroleum Geologists often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex subsurface data, dealing with incomplete or ambiguous geological information, and adapting to advances in exploration technology. They must collaborate closely with geophysicists, drilling engineers, and other specialists to integrate data and make informed drilling recommendations. Additionally, working in remote locations or under tight project deadlines can require flexibility and strong problem-solving skills.

What does a petroleum geologist do?

Petroleum geologists are geoscientists who have specialized skills and training regarding the extraction of raw petroleum fuels from the earth. They use cutting-edge technology to develop accurate estimations of how much fuel can be safely removed from a given area. They also oversee the extraction of this material.

What is the difference between Petroleum Geologist vs Geophysicist?

AspectPetroleum GeologistGeophysicist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, often with certifications in petroleum geologyBachelor's or Master's in Geophysics or related field, sometimes with certifications in geophysical methods
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, core sampling, seismic data analysis, office-based interpretationSeismic data processing, modeling, computer-based analysis, field surveys
Employer & Industry UsageOil and gas companies, exploration firms, consulting agenciesOil and gas companies, exploration firms, research institutions

Petroleum Geologists focus on analyzing rock formations and geological data to locate oil and gas reserves, often working in the field and office. Geophysicists interpret seismic and geophysical data to identify subsurface structures. Both roles require strong technical skills and are vital in the exploration and production of hydrocarbons, but they differ in their primary methods and focus areas.

What is a petroleum geologist?

Petroleum geologists are scientists who study the origin, occurrence, movement, accumulation, and exploration of oil and natural gas resources beneath the Earth's surface. They use their knowledge of geology, geophysics, and geochemistry to locate and evaluate potential oil and gas reserves. Petroleum geologists often work for oil companies, consulting firms, or government agencies, and play a key role in the energy industry by helping determine where to drill for oil and gas. Their work involves data analysis, field studies, and the interpretation of geological maps and seismic surveys.
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Petroleum Geologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Petroleum Geologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,266 per year, or $42.4 per hour.

Geologist

Diamondbackenergy

Midland, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

CURRENT EMPLOYEES - Please apply using "Jobs Hub" in Workday. This career site is for external applicants only.

A Geologist provides regional and local geologic interpretation across the Permian Basin to support multiple assets and play concepts. This role partners closely with geophysicists, petrophysicists, and engineers to strengthen subsurface evaluations and recommendations. The ideal candidate can synthesize geologic, petrophysical, geochemical, production, and other relevant datasets to build basin and play models, identify and high-grade development opportunities, and support future A&D initiatives. The position also collaborates with reservoir engineering to define fit-for-purpose development scenarios that maximize reservoir value, requiring a strong understanding of depositional systems, structural framework, and geochemical variability at the basin scale.


Job Responsibilities:

Include but are not limited to

  • Collecting and integrating data of differing types and scales including, but not limited to, log, seismic, rock property, well performance, and land data to build an understanding of basin history, resource assessment, and develop play analysis.
  • Assist and/or guide current efforts on multi-county stratigraphic framework and subsurface correlations.
  • Develop detailed field/prospect studies using a multi-disciplinary team approach.
  • Lead geologic efforts at key asset area to be determined by working to exploit the reservoirs targeted in an efficient manner.
  • Generate and update maps, cross-sections, and technical presentations.
  • Create, generate, manage and present sound, high-quality geologic interpretations and recommendations for new acreage and/or drilling opportunities to senior management.
  • Coordinate well logging and coring activities with petrophysical staff.

Required Qualifications:

  • A Bachelor's degree in Geology
  • Minimum 5 years experience as a petroleum geologist.
  • Resource play experience
  • Experience with horizontal drilling and well operations; unconventional resource assessment and characterization workflows.
  • Experience with log analysis and petrophysical concepts.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to present clear, concise technical recommendations.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in Geology related field
  • Prior experience in multiple US onshore unconventional basins, including Permian Basin
  • Geologic workstation experience, IHS-Markit Petra and SMT

Diamondback is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Diamondback provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, color, age, religion, veteran or disability status, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other status protected by law. Diamondback participates in E-Verify. Learn more aboutE-Verify.

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