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Physical Geographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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$43.5K

$75.2K

$112.5K

How much do physical geographer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 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 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.

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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Physical Geographer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,198 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Geographer (Recent Graduate)

Suitland, MD • On-site


US Department of Commerce
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

126th of 853 rated public administrative organizations

Great coworkers

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Good employer


$57K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

This vacancy is for a Geographer (Recent Graduate) position in the Geography Division located at the U.S. Census Bureau Headquarters in Suitland, Maryland. The Census Bureau is accessible from the Metro Rail Green Line - Suitland Station.
This Job Opportunity Announcement may be used to fill other Geographer (Recent Graduate), 0150-7/9, FPL GS-12, positions within the Census Bureau in the same geographical location with the same qualifications and specialized experience.Qualifications:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
Basic Entry Requirements for All Grade Levels:

You must be a Recent College Graduates from qualifying institutions within two years of degree or certification (Veterans precluded by their military service obligation, will have up to six years to apply).Students with a transcript with a degree confer date on or before September 30, 2026, will be considered for the Recent Graduate Program. Graduation/expected graduation date MUST be indicated on your resume.
NOTE: To show proof of meeting the Basic Entry Requirements, all applicants MUST submit a copy of their college transcripts. See the Required Documents section for more information.
Minimum Education Requirement:
Individual Occupational Requirement for all grades:

  1. Degree: geography; or 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
  2. Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in geography, or a related field that included at least 24 semester hours in geography or related fields, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education

In addition to meeting the minimum education requirement listed above, applicants must have specialized experience and/or directly related education in the amounts listed below for each grade level.
GS-07:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: For the GS-07 you must have one year of experience at a level of difficulty and responsibility equivalent to the GS-05 in the Federal service. Experience for this position includes: using geography and geographic tools or concepts to assist with geographic or geospatial analysis or geographic operations related to geocoding or spatial updates and coordinates; assisting with the preparation of project documentation such as project plans or requirements; using automated tools (such as Microsoft Excel) to enter and/or analyze data or generate reports; serving as a member of a team to complete a geographic project.
OR YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR THE GS-07 BASED ON EDUCATION: 1 year of graduate-level education or superior academic achievement.
SUPERIOR ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT: Bachelor's degree with superior academic achievement is defined as:(1) Class standing -- You must be in the upper third of the graduating class in the college, university, or major subdivision based on completed courses, (2) Grade-point average (G.P.A.) -- You must have 3.0 or higher out of a possible 4.0 based on 4 years of education, or as computed based on courses completed during the final 2 years of the curriculum OR 3.5 or higher out of a possible 4.0 based on the average of the required courses completed in the major field or the required courses in the major field completed during the final 2 years of the curriculum, or (3) Election to membership in a national scholastic honor society -- You are a member of one of the national scholastic honor societies recognized by the Association of College Honor Societies (https://www.achshonor.org/)
GS-09:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: For the GS-09, you must have one year of experience at a level of difficulty and responsibility equivalent to the GS-07 in the Federal service. Experience for this position includes: using geography and geographic tools or concepts to perform geographic and/or geospatial analysis and geographic operations related to geocoding and/or spatial updates; assisting with geographic information systems and address list development; preparing and writing documents, specifications, guidelines, and letters; using office software to generate reports and presentations; using automated technology (such as Microsoft Excel) to manipulate and analyze data and prepare reports; using automated tools to track projects and run queries in databases.
OR YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR THE GS-09 BASED ON EDUCATION: 2 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master's degree or master's or equivalent graduate degree.
NOTE: Education and experience may be combined for all grade levels for which both education and experience are acceptable.
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.
After you submit this application, you will receive an e-mail informing you that a USA Hire assessment is required. You will have 48 hours from the closing date of this announcement, 08/25/2026, to complete the assessment as this assessment is part of your application.

Education:Employment Type: OTHER


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