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Physical Geographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Geological Survey

Geographer

Lakewood, CO · On-site +1

$74K - $97K/yr

Board on Geographic Names (BGN) by responding to inquiries, collecting and analyzing geographic ... Education Successfully completed a bachelor's or higher degree in geography or a related physical ...

US Department of the Navy

GEOGRAPHER

Camp Pendleton, CA · On-site

$85K/yr

Applying geographic analysis, GIS principles, cartography, and remote sensing techniques to ... Degree: Successfully completed a bachelor's degree in geography; or related physical or social ...

First Tek, Inc.

Geographer 3

Portland, OR · On-site

... physical data models using MS Visio. • Drafts and maintains schema and metadata standards for ... Preferred : • GISP (Geographic Information Systems Professional) certification. • Knowledge and ...

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Physical Geographer information

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$43.5K

$75.2K

$112.5K

How much do physical geographer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for physical geographer in the United States is $75,198.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $91,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Physical Geographer vs Geoscientist?

AspectPhysical GeographerGeoscientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geography, Earth Science, or related fieldBachelor's or higher in Geology, Earth Science, or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, research labs, academic settingsResearch labs, field sites, consulting firms
Industry UsageAcademic, environmental consulting, government agenciesMining, oil & gas, environmental consulting, research
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Physical Geographers and Geoscientists share similar educational backgrounds and often work in field and research environments. While Physical Geographers focus on Earth's physical features and processes from a geographic perspective, Geoscientists tend to specialize more broadly in Earth's materials and processes, often with a stronger emphasis on geology. Both roles are vital in environmental and resource industries, but their specific focus areas and applications differ slightly.

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

To thrive as a Physical Geographer, you need a strong background in earth sciences, spatial analysis, and environmental systems, typically supported by a relevant degree in geography or a related field. Proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing software, and data analysis tools is essential for conducting research and interpreting geographical data. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in presenting findings and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are vital for accurately understanding and addressing environmental challenges and contributing meaningful insights to policy and research.

What are some common challenges faced by Physical Geographers in the field, and how can they be addressed?

Physical Geographers often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, difficult terrain, and limited access to remote study sites. These factors can impact data collection and project timelines. To address these challenges, it's important to plan fieldwork thoroughly, use appropriate technology (like GPS and remote sensing), and work collaboratively with local experts. Additionally, flexibility and problem-solving skills are crucial for adapting research methods when unexpected obstacles arise.

What does a Physical Geographer do?

A Physical Geographer studies the natural features and processes of the Earth, such as landforms, climates, vegetation, soils, and water bodies. They analyze how these physical elements interact and change over time, often using tools like maps, satellite imagery, and field observations. Physical Geographers also investigate the impact of natural phenomena—like erosion, earthquakes, and climate change—on the environment and human societies. Their work can involve research, teaching, environmental consulting, or contributing to policy development.
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What cities are hiring for Physical Geographer jobs? Cities with the most Physical Geographer job openings:
What states have the most Physical Geographer jobs? States with the most job openings for Physical Geographer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Physical Geographer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Physical Geographer jobs are:
Physical Geographer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physical Geographer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 77% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 14% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 35% Hybrid, and 65% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,198 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Geographer

US Department of the Interior

Rolla, MO • On-site

$74K/yr

Other

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

U.S. Department Of The Interior rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

412th of 841 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

This position is located within the U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Core Science Systems, Cartographic Data Services.

Duty Locations:

  • Rolla, Missouri
  • Lakewood, Colorado
  • Reston, Virginia

Salary (GS-11):

  • Lakewood, CO: $83,265 (Step 1) to $108,251 (Step 10)
  • Rolla, MO: $74,678 (Step 1) to $97,087 (Step 10)
  • Reston, VA: $85,447 (Step 1) to $111,087 (Step 10)
Qualifications:

Basic Education Requirement

Applicants must meet A or B below to satisfy the basic education requirement for the Geographer Series, GS-0150.

A. Education

Successfully completed a bachelor's or higher degree in geography or a related physical or social science, such as geology, meteorology, economics, statistics, sociology, anthropology, political science, history, cartography, computer science, urban studies, or planning, that included at least 24 semester hours in geography or related fields.

OR

B. Combination of Education and Experience

Successfully completed a combination of education and experience that included coursework equivalent to a major in geography or a related field, with at least 24 semester hours in geography or related fields, as described in A above, plus appropriate experience and/or additional education. The combination of education and experience must be comparable in type, scope, and depth to that acquired through successful completion of a four-year course of study as described above.

Minimum Qualification Requirements for the GS-11 Grade Level

In addition to meeting the basic education requirement, applicants must meet one of the following:

A. Specialized Experience

One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 grade level in the Federal service. Specialized experience is defined as experience performing duties such as:

  • Analyzing and interpreting geographic information, maps, digital geospatial data, and related datasets to solve geographic problems.
  • Researching, evaluating, and selecting information from multiple sources to support the location, documentation, and standardization of geographic names and features for maps, charts, or gazetteers.
  • Analyzing the spatial distribution of geographic phenomena and comparing relationships among natural or human-induced features.
  • Assisting higher-graded researchers on geographic studies, projects, or analyses by collecting, organizing, evaluating, and interpreting geographic information.
  • Performing independent assignments or significant portions of larger projects while applying established geographic principles, methods, and procedures to resolve routine problems.

OR

B. Education

Successfully completed a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in geography or another directly related field of study.

OR

Successfully completed three years of progressively higher-level graduate education (54 semester hours, 81 quarter hours, or the equivalent) leading to a Ph.D. in geography or another directly related field, provided the education demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the duties of the position.

OR

C. Combination of Graduate Education and Specialized Experience

Successfully completed a combination of graduate education beyond the second year of graduate study and specialized experience, as described above, that together meet the qualification requirements for the GS-11 grade level.

You must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements by the closing date of this announcement.

Education:
  • Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g. Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
  • Education completed in colleges or universities outside the United States may be used to meet the above requirements. You must provide acceptable documentation that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. For more information on how foreign education is evaluated, visit:https://www.usgs.gov/human-capital/how-foreign-education-evaluated-federal-jobs
Employment Type: OTHER

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