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Principal Engineering Geologist Jobs in California

Terraphase Engineering Inc

Principal Geologist

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$145K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Description Terraphase Engineering is seeking a self-motivated, goal-oriented individual to join ... Minimum of Bachelor of Science degree in Geology, Hydrogeology, Environmental Science, Civil ...

Wood Rodgers

Principal Engineer

Roseville, CA · On-site

$126.50 - $158.10/hr

Principal Engineer Department: Geotechnical Employment Type: Full Time Location: Roseville, CA ... Bachelor in Engineering (BS) in Civil Engineering/Geology. * Master's degree (MS) in Geotechnical ...

Wood Rodgers

Principal Engineer

Roseville, CA · On-site

$126K - $158K/yr

Principal Engineer Department: Geotechnical Employment Type: Full Time Location: Roseville, CA ... Bachelor in Engineering (BS) in Civil Engineering/Geology. * Master's degree (MS) in Geotechnical ...

Wood Rodgers

Principal Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$126K - $158K/yr

Principal Engineer Department: Geotechnical Employment Type: Full Time Location: Sacramento, CA ... Bachelor in Engineering (BS) in Civil Engineering/Geology. * Master's degree (MS) in Geotechnical ...

Wood Rodgers

Principal Engineer

Sacramento, CA

$126K - $158K/yr

A day in the life as a Wood Rodgers' Principal Engineer * Develop and maintain internal and ... Bachelor in Engineering (BS) in Civil Engineering/Geology. * Master's degree (MS) in Geotechnical ...

Wood Rodgers

Principal Engineer

Roseville, CA · On-site

$126K - $158K/yr

A day in the life as a Wood Rodgers' Principal Engineer * Develop and maintain internal and ... Bachelor in Engineering (BS) in Civil Engineering/Geology. * Master's degree (MS) in Geotechnical ...

Fugro

Senior Geologist

Walnut Creek, CA · Hybrid

$123K/yr

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Under the direction of the Principal Geologist, demonstrate proficient ... Perform engineering geologic analyses and develop reasonable conclusions and recommendations.

Fugro-Geoteam AS

Senior Geologist

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$110.92 - $135.56/hr

Under the direction of the Principal Geologist, demonstrate proficient report/proposal writing and ... Perform engineering geologic analyses and develop reasonable conclusions and recommendations.

Wood Rodgers

Principal Engineer

Roseville, CA

Wood Rodgers, a leading engineering consulting firm, is hiring a Principal Engineer to join our ... Bachelor in Engineering (BS) in Civil Engineering/Geology. * Master's degree (MS) in Geotechnical ...

Fugro

Senior Geologist

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$123K/yr

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Under the direction of the Principal Geologist, demonstrate proficient ... Perform engineering geologic analyses and develop reasonable conclusions and recommendations.

Wood Rodgers

Principal Engineer

Sacramento, CA

Wood Rodgers, a leading engineering consulting firm, is hiring a Principal Engineer to join our ... Bachelor in Engineering (BS) in Civil Engineering/Geology. * Master's degree (MS) in Geotechnical ...

Wood Rodgers

Principal Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$126.50 - $158.10/hr

Principal Engineer Department: Geotechnical Employment Type: Full Time Location: Sacramento, CA ... Bachelor in Engineering (BS) in Civil Engineering or Geology. * Master's degree (MS) in ...

Terraphase Engineering Inc

Principal Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$145K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Minimum of Bachelor of Science degree in Geology, Hydrogeology, Environmental Science, Civil Engineering, or related discipline. * State professional licensing is preferred. * A strong understanding ...

Terraphase Engineering Inc

Principal Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$145K - $200K/yr

Minimum of Bachelor of Science degree in Geology, Hydrogeology, Environmental Science, Civil Engineering, or related discipline. * State professional licensing is preferred. * A strong understanding ...

ACE Quality Control

Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Roseville, CA · On-site

$150 - $210/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Allerion Consulting Group, a growing geotechnical engineering firm based in Roseville, California ... geologists, and environmental specialists. You will be responsible for both technical excellence ...

WSP

Assistant Vice President Environmental Geologist

Irvine, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

WSP's Irvine office provides a broad range of services in engineering and environmental sciences ... Successfully interact with Local Business Leader, Sector Lead, other Principal and Senior-level ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrincipal Engineering Geologist JobsPrincipal Engineering Geologist Jobs in California

Principal Engineering Geologist information

See California salary details

$73K

$145.3K

$209.7K

How much do principal engineering geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal engineering geologist in California is $145,292.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,900.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Principal Engineering Geologist, you need advanced expertise in geology, geotechnical analysis, and risk assessment, typically supported by a relevant degree and significant field experience. Proficiency with geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, GIS systems, and experience with site investigation techniques and reporting standards is essential. Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills distinguish top performers by enabling effective collaboration and client interactions. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety, compliance, and success of complex engineering projects involving ground conditions and environmental risks.

How does a principal engineering geologist typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on large infrastructure projects?

A Principal Engineering Geologist works closely with civil engineers, environmental scientists, project managers, and contractors to assess site conditions and advise on ground-related risks. They often lead geotechnical investigations, interpret data, and present findings to ensure that geological factors are fully integrated into design and construction plans. Effective communication and coordination are crucial, as their recommendations can directly impact project safety, cost, and timelines. Regular meetings and site visits are common, ensuring that all stakeholders remain informed and aligned throughout the project.

What is a principal engineering geologist?

Principal Engineering Geologists are highly experienced professionals who assess geological factors that can impact engineering projects such as tunnels, dams, buildings, and roads. They analyze soil, rock, groundwater, and other earth materials to provide recommendations for safe and effective construction. Their role often involves leading teams, managing projects, and ensuring compliance with regulations, while also liaising with clients and other engineers. Principal Engineering Geologists play a critical part in minimizing geological risks and ensuring sustainable development.

What is the difference between Principal Engineering Geologist vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Engineering GeologistGeotechnical Engineer
CredentialsGeology degree, professional geology license, advanced certificationsGeotechnical engineering degree, engineering license, certifications in geotechnical analysis
Work EnvironmentField investigations, site assessments, geological mappingLaboratory testing, design of foundations, slope stability analysis
Industry UsageMining, environmental consulting, natural resource explorationConstruction, infrastructure projects, civil engineering firms

The Principal Engineering Geologist primarily focuses on geological assessments, site investigations, and environmental considerations, often working in natural resource and environmental sectors. In contrast, Geotechnical Engineers concentrate on soil and rock mechanics to design foundations and support structures. Both roles require specialized credentials and are vital in construction and environmental projects, but they differ in their core expertise and typical work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Principal Engineering Geologist jobs in California? For Principal Engineering Geologist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Engineering Geologist jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Engineering Geologist jobs in California are:
Principal Engineering Geologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Engineering Geologist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,292 per year, or $69.9 per hour.

Principal Geologist

Terraphase Engineering Inc

Pleasanton, CA • On-site

$145K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Terraphase offers cost-effective solutions to complex environmental and engineering challenges. We listen to our clients and focus on their needs. We apply technical expertise and keen awareness of the regulatory framework to achieve our clients' project goals and objectives. The combined talent and experience of Terraphase's engineers, geologists, and scientists form the foundation for a comprehensive environmental management approach.
Description
Terraphase Engineering is seeking a self-motivated, goal-oriented individual to join our growing organization as a senior professional in our Oakland or Pleasanton, CA offices. The applicant should have an interest in supporting a broad range of projects that reflect our core business lines in contaminated site remediation, environmental due diligence, litigation support, site investigation and remediation, regulatory negotiations, environmental and stormwater compliance.
The Role
  • Project management
  • Lead and develop business opportunities with new and existing clients identify and engage new clients;
  • Communicate effectively with clients and staff;
  • Supervise regional staff;
  • Identify and recruit key staff for growth;
  • Identify and implement growth strategies for clients;
  • Stay abreast of local and national regulations and advise staff and clients on new opportunities;
  • Develop and manage budgets;
  • Prepare project cost proposals and other deliverables;
  • Respond to RFPs.

Who You Are
  • 10+ years of experience
  • Minimum of Bachelor of Science degree in Geology, Hydrogeology, Environmental Science, Civil Engineering, or related discipline.
  • State professional licensing is preferred.
  • A strong understanding of environmental regulations at the state and federal level is required.
  • The applicant must be able to communicate effectively with peers, clients, and regulators
  • Demonstrate strong written, verbal, computer, and interpersonal skills
  • Established knowledge of the consulting field preferred, with geographic knowledge of clientele and environmental consulting industry.
  • Prior project management experience, business development skills, experience with state and federal environmental regulations/agencies, and a strong relationship with industrial and commercial clients are required.

Compensation for this position is based on years of experience, technical expertise, technical education, and geographic location.
Pay Range
$145,000-$200,000 USD
Who We Are
We are an environmental consulting company that offers cost-effective solutions to complex environmental and engineering challenges. We apply technical expertise and keen awareness of the regulatory framework to achieve our clients' project goals and objectives. The combined talent and experience of Terraphase's engineers, geologists, and scientists form the foundation for a comprehensive environmental management approach.
Terraphase was founded with the goal of developing a full-service engineering and consulting firm that provides high-quality services to clients with regional and nationwide operations. We are driven by creating valuable work products for our company and clients, and a rewarding environment for our employees. Our staff is comprised of registered professionals in civil engineering, geology, hydrogeology, and geotechnical engineering.
Our unique company culture philosophy of appreciating and recognizing individuals for their work, leadership, and mentoring, while supporting and encouraging a healthy personal and professional lifestyle help to make Terraphase one of the best places to work.
Benefits
Terraphase offers an extensive benefits package including; Medical, Dental, Vision, Employer Paid Life Insurance, Long-Term Disability, a generous 401(k) match, Commuter Benefits, TerraLunches, TerraTalks, Tuition/Licensing/Professional Development Reimbursement, Flexible Work Schedule, ongoing company-sponsored events.
EOE STATEMENT
Terraphase is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to an inclusive & diverse work environment where individual strengths and diverse viewpoints are respected and complement each other to achieve common goals. (EOE M/V/F/D)
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