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Physical Geographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Azad, Inc

Geographer / GIS Analyst

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$45 - $53/hr

Join AZAD Technology Partners as a Geographer and provide high-level, professional GIS (Geographic ... physical or mental disability, veteran's status, sexual orientation, national origin, age or any ...

Azad, Inc

Geographer / GIS Analyst

Vancouver, WA · On-site

Join AZAD Technology Partners as a Geographer an d work within the Civil Design department ... physical or mental disability, veteran's status, sexual orientation, national origin, age or any ...

Azad, Inc

Geographer / GIS Analyst

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$45 - $54/hr

Join AZAD Technology Partners as a Geographer and provide design, contracting, and construction ... physical or mental disability, veteran's status, sexual orientation, national origin, age or any ...

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$43.5K

$75.2K

$112.5K

How much do physical geographer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 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 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.

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.

More about Physical Geographer jobs
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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,198 per year, or $36.2 per hour.
Geographer

Geographer

US Department of the Interior

Reston, VA • On-site

$102.42K/yr

Other

This job post has expired today. 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

291st of 639 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

What General Information Do I Need To Know About This Position?
GS-12 Salary: $102,415 (Step 01) to $133,142 (Step 10)
NOTE: First time hires to the Federal Government are typically hired at the Step 01.Qualifications:

BASIC EDUCATION REQUIREMENT: Applicants must meet A or B below to satisfy the basic education requirement for Geographer, all grade levels.

  1. Degree in 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.
  2. A combination of education and experience-- courses equivalent to a major in geography, or a related field that included at least 24 semesters hours in geography or related fields, as shown in "A" above, plus appropriate experience and/or additional education. The education or combined education and experience must be comparable in type, scope and thoroughness to that acquired through successful completion of a 4-year course of study as described in "A" above.
For GS-12:
In addition to the basic education requirement as stated above, applicants must meet the following to qualify for the GS-12 level:
**One year of appropriate professional experience in geography that is equivalent to at least the GS-11 level in the Federal service.
Examples of such experience may include: 1) coordination of research of geographic name conflicts, and proposals to name unnamed features, or to change the existing names of features; 2) presentation of geographic name conflicts, proposals to name unnamed features, or to change the existing names of features to the U.S. Board on Geographic Names/Domestic Names Committee; 3) serves as a recognized expert on the Principles, Policies, and Procedures U.S. Board on Geographic Names/Domestic Names Committee.
You must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements for the position by the closing date of the 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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