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Principal Engineering Geologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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.

SLR Consulting Limited

Principal Engineer

$140K - $190K/yr

We are seeking a highly accomplished Principal Scientist, Principal Engineer (PE), or Principal ... Bachelor's and/or Master's degree in Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Geology ...

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 · On-site

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

Roseville, CA · On-site

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 ...

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Principal Engineering Geologist information

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$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal engineering geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal engineering geologist in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What type of geologist gets paid the most?

Principal engineering geologists tend to earn higher salaries due to their advanced expertise, leadership responsibilities, and experience in managing complex projects. Salaries can also vary based on industry, location, and certifications such as Professional Geologist (PG) licensure, with those working in consulting or resource extraction often earning more.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Principal Engineering Geologist, and why are they important?

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 are Principal Engineering Geologists?

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.

How much does a principal geologist make in the US?

A principal engineering geologist in the US typically earns between $90,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry sector. Senior roles often include leadership responsibilities and require advanced certifications or specialized skills in geology and environmental assessment.

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 is the highest paid geologist?

Principal Engineering Geologists are among the highest-paid geologists, especially with extensive experience and advanced certifications. Salaries can exceed $100,000 annually, depending on industry, location, and specialization in areas like environmental or geotechnical geology.

Is there a high demand for geologists?

The demand for geologists, including principal engineering geologists, is generally steady due to ongoing needs in environmental assessment, natural resource exploration, and infrastructure projects. Employment opportunities are often influenced by industry activity, regulatory requirements, and regional development, with specialized skills in site investigation and geotechnical analysis being highly valued.
More about Principal Engineering Geologist jobs
What states have the most Principal Engineering Geologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Principal Engineering Geologist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Principal Engineering Geologist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Engineering Geologist jobs are:
Principal Engineering Geologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Engineering Geologist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.
Principal Solid Waste Engineer or Geologist

Principal Solid Waste Engineer or Geologist

Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Overview
Do you want to build an impactful career to change the world for the better?
Geosyntec has an exciting opportunity for a Principal Solid Waste Engineer or Geologist to join our geoenvironmental and geotechnical practice, based out of our Grand Rapids, MI, Detroit, MI, Indianapolis, IN, Kansas City, MO, St. Louis, MO, Milwaukee, WI, or any of our Midwest based offices, with the opportunity for remote or hybrid-work scheduling. Our solid waste and landfill services practice engages in complex projects related to landfill, transfer station, surface impoundment design and permitting, geologic and hydrogeologic investigations, solid waste planning, and other solid waste management systems for our diverse client base throughout the Midwest. As a Principal level Engineer or Geologist you will have the opportunity to lead and mentor a dedicated staff of industry professionals, contribute to challenging technical work, and engage in business development efforts to expand our market share in the solid waste industry.
Geosyntec is an innovative, international engineering and consulting firm serving private and public-sector clients to address new ventures and complex problems involving our environment, natural resources, and civil infrastructure. Our engineers, scientists, technical and project employees serve our clients from offices across the world. Ranked by ENR as one of the top environmental engineering design firms, Geosyntec is internationally known for its technical leadership, broad experience, and exceptional client service.
We invest in our people. Each employee is unique, and your career at Geosyntec will be too. We offer competitive pay and benefits, and well-being programs to support you and your family.
To Learn More Visit: http://www.geosyntec.com/careers/.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Collaboration and mentoring are cornerstones of Geosyntec's culture. You should expect to work closely with experienced professionals who will help integrate you into Geosyntec's culture as you advance to this next stage of your career.
We operate under a sell-manage-do culture, and so we expect all employees work on challenging technical projects while leveraging your existing knowledge and experience to help Geosyntec expand its current practices and capabilities. As a Principal Solid Waste Engineer or Geologist, you will have the opportunity to take on a mix of technical expertise, leadership, client relationship management, sales and business development, and mentoring roles.
Some of the key responsibilities for this senior level position include:
  • Engage in sales, business development, marketing, and client relationship management to expand solid waste and landfill market presence;
  • Landfill engineering design, including liner and final cover system design, landfill gas system design, site closure and financial assurance;
  • Civil design, transfer station design, stormwater design, and site layout;
  • Engineering analyses such as slope stability, hydrologic and landfill gas modeling, seismic, and seepage;
  • Small project/task management and proposal preparation support;
  • Understanding of local, state and federal regulations related to solid waste;
  • Preparation of permit applications, design calculations, drawings, technical specifications, and permit applications; and
  • Fieldwork associated with investigation, design and construction services.
  • Drive personal, company, and rental vehicles to client or company project or office sites, and other business locations, as needed.

Education and Licensure
  • Bachelor's degree in civil or geotechnical engineering, geology or environmental science. (required)
  • Advanced degree in the same. (preferred)
  • Professional certification (P.E., P.G. or equivalent) or ability to obtain within 2 years. (required)

Skills, Experience and Qualifications
  • At least 10 years (15+ preferred) of related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. (required)
  • Demonstrated interest and experience direclty related to solid waste. (required)
  • Strong oral and technical writing skills. (required)
  • Experience with modeling/design tools such as AUTOCAD, KYpipe, fate transport modeling, Slope/W, Vadose/W, Sigma/W, FLAC and ARCGIS. (preferred)
  • Regular fieldwork up to 30% and overnight travel up to 30%. (required)
  • Health & Safety training, medical monitoring, and client-driven drug and background testing may be required.
  • Valid U.S. driver's license and a satisfactory driving record for business travel. (required)

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