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Principal Geologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... Gleeson geology team and geophysical and drill contractors in a remote, field-based exploration ... Under the direction of the Director SWUS Exploration and Principal Geoscientist, support the ...

... Gleeson geology team and geophysical and drill contractors in a remote, field-based exploration ... Under the direction of the Director SWUS Exploration and Principal Geoscientist, support the ...

Assistant Vice President Environmental Geologist

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Successfully interact with Local Business Leader, Sector Lead, other Principal and Senior-level ... Who You Are Required Qualifications * BS in Geology, Earth Sciences, or related science field * 12 ...

Assistant Vice President Environmental Geologist

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$118.90 - $176.55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Successfully interact with Local Business Leader, Sector Lead, other Principal and Senior-level ... Who You Are Required Qualifications * BS in Geology, Earth Sciences, or related science field * 12 ...

Assistant Vice President Environmental Geologist

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Successfully interact with Local Business Leader, Sector Lead, other Principal and Senior-level ... Who You Are Required Qualifications * BS in Geology, Earth Sciences, or related science field * 12 ...

Principal Geochemist

Denver, CO ยท On-site +1

$150K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Principal Geochemist ITASCA North America | U.S.-based About the role ITASCA North America is ... geology, and environmental conditions interact, and what those interactions mean for water quality ...

Principal Geochemist

Denver, CO ยท On-site +1

$150K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Principal Geochemist ITASCA North America | U.S.-based About the role ITASCA North America is ... geology, and environmental conditions interact, and what those interactions mean for water quality ...

Senior Vice President Environmental Geologist

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Successfully interact with Local Business Leader, Sector Lead, other Principal and Senior-level ... California Professional Geologist's License * Strong work ethic * Strong Project and Program ...

Senior Vice President Environmental Geologist

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Successfully interact with Local Business Leader, Sector Lead, other Principal and Senior-level ... California Professional Geologist's License * Strong work ethic * Strong Project and Program ...

Principal Geochemist (Remote)

Denver, CO ยท Remote

$150K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Principal Geochemist ITASCA North America | U.S.-based About the role ITASCA North America is ... geology, and environmental conditions interact, and what those interactions mean for water quality ...

Vice President Environmental Geologist

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Successfully interact with Local Business Leader, Sector Lead, other Principal and Senior-level ... Who You Are Required Qualifications * BS in Geology, Earth Sciences or related science field * 15 ...

Showing results 41-60

Principal Geologist information

See salary details

$36.5K

$109.4K

$182K

How much do principal geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal geologist in the United States is $109,393.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal geologist?

A Principal Geologist is a senior-level geoscientist who leads geological projects, provides technical expertise, and manages teams within organizations such as mining companies, environmental consultancies, or government agencies. They are responsible for designing and overseeing geological investigations, interpreting data, and making recommendations based on their findings. Principal Geologists often play a key role in project planning, risk assessment, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Their extensive experience allows them to mentor junior staff and contribute to strategic decision-making within their organization.

What are some typical challenges principal geologists face when leading multidisciplinary projects?

Principal Geologists often oversee complex projects that require collaboration with engineers, environmental scientists, and regulatory agencies. Coordinating these diverse teams can be challenging due to differing priorities and communication styles. Additionally, Principal Geologists must ensure that geological assessments align with project goals, budgets, and timelines while adhering to safety and environmental standards. Strong leadership, clear communication, and problem-solving skills are essential to successfully navigate these challenges and deliver high-quality outcomes.

Is there a high demand for principal geologists?

Principal geologists are in steady demand in industries such as oil and gas, mining, and environmental consulting, especially in regions with active resource exploration and development. The role often requires advanced technical skills, industry experience, and relevant certifications, with employment prospects influenced by commodity prices and environmental regulations.

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

To thrive as a Principal Geologist, you need advanced expertise in geological science, extensive fieldwork experience, and a relevant degree such as geology or earth sciences, often supplemented by professional registration (e.g., P.Geo or CPG). Proficiency with geological modeling software, GIS tools, and data analysis platforms is commonly required, alongside familiarity with regulatory and reporting standards. Exceptional leadership, communication, and project management skills help you guide teams and effectively liaise with stakeholders. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure accurate assessments, regulatory compliance, and successful execution of complex geological projects.

What is the difference between Principal Geologist vs Senior Geologist?

AspectPrincipal GeologistSenior Geologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, often with 10+ years experienceBachelor's or Master's in Geology, typically with 5-10 years experience
Work EnvironmentLead projects, oversee teams, and coordinate with clientsConduct fieldwork, data analysis, and support project execution
Employer & Industry UsageConsulting firms, oil & gas, mining, environmental companiesMining companies, environmental agencies, consulting firms

The Principal Geologist typically holds a senior leadership role, overseeing projects and teams, while the Senior Geologist focuses more on technical fieldwork and data analysis. Both roles require strong geological expertise, but the Principal Geologist has greater managerial responsibilities and client interaction.

More about Principal Geologist jobs

What cities are hiring for Principal Geologist jobs?

Cities with the most Principal Geologist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Geologist jobs?

The most popular types of Principal Geologist jobs are:

What states have the most Principal Geologist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Principal Geologist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Principal Geologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,393 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

Senior Geologist

Ivanhoe Electric

Sierra Vista, AZ โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:

This is a permanent position performing exploration work at our Gleeson project in Arizona.

The successful candidate will be responsible for gathering high-quality geologic information and assisting with supervising the Gleeson geology team and geophysical and drill contractors in a remote, field-based exploration environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Under the direction of the Director SWUS Exploration and Principal Geoscientist, support the execution of the Gleeson project exploration program, including core logging, field mapping and sampling, interpretation and modeling.
  • Ensure and maintain a high level of data quality, security, and QA/QC.
  • Assist with the preparation and monitoring of exploration budgets.
  • Ensure projects are completed on time and on budget.
  • Responsible for timely and accurate reporting of project and program activities
  • Establish and ensure projects and crews observe and maintain the highest standards possible for the company and individual projects.
  • Compliance with all company policies and procedures, including, but not limited to, safety, environmental, confidentiality, and code of conduct.
  • Performs other related functions as assigned.

Skills and Experience Required:

  • Advanced knowledge of hydrothermal mineral deposits, particularly epithermal systems, porphyry copper, skarns, and carbonate replacements; exploration for and evaluation of such is a significant advantage.
  • Ability to understand and implement industry best practices and technological processes for mapping, sampling, drill core logging, and other exploration activities.
  • Experience with sample and data collection and the ability to analyze and leverage diverse analytical datasets such as petrography, spectrometry, geochronology, and petrophysical properties with respect to the exploration for mineral systems.
  • Ability to effectively present exploration programs and provide regular formal and informal updates.
  • Preparation, adaptation, and implementation of standard operating procedures to fit project scopes.
  • Strong verbal, written, and analytical skills with the ability to interact effectively with all levels of employees and management.
  • Demonstrates strong administrative, organizational, and technical writing skills in an agile, fast-paced environment.
  • Capable of operating independently and safely with a small team while solving problems and appropriately managing risk in a remote environment.
  • Must communicate with professionals, collaborate with contractors, and manage key stakeholder relationships in the community.
  • Effective execution of this role will require extended time periods at site on rotation in Arizona.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Geology or equivalent required. A Master's in economic geology is preferred.
  • A minimum of 10 years’ experience in Porphyry, epithermal, or Carbonate-hosted-deposit (CRD) mineral systems in an early-stage, field-based exploration context.
  • A minimum of 3-5 years of experience as an exploration geologist in a senior capacity on a multi-drill-rig program is preferred.
  • Previous drill program experience including supervision of drilling contractors and knowledge of drilling processes and techniques.
  • Experience and competence with GIS and Resource Modeling Software, preferably Leapfrog and ArcGIS.

Diversity Statements:

Ivanhoe Electric is an equal opportunity employer that recognizes the value of a diverse workforce. All suitably qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective criteria and without regard to the following (which is a non-exhaustive list): race, color, age, religion, gender, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other characteristics in accordance with the relevant governing laws.

The Company offers a professional and entrepreneurial office environment and the opportunity to work and grow with talented colleagues. The Company offers competitive compensation and an employee benefits package.