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Principal Geoscientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Weston Solutions

Project Geoscientist

Lakewood, CO

... Principal and Senior Project staff. Project Geoscientists are accountable for handling specific ... Bachelor's Degree in Geology, Geoscience, or a related field and have at least 6-15 years of ...

Weston Solutions

Project Geoscientist

Tempe, AZ

... Principal and Senior Project staff. Project Geoscientists are accountable for handling specific ... Bachelor's Degree in Geology, Geoscience, or a related field and have at least 6-15 years of ...

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Principal Geoscientist information

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$182K

How much do principal geoscientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal geoscientist 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.

How much does a geomorphologist make?

A geomorphologist's salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Principal geoscientists with specialization in geomorphology often earn higher salaries, especially with advanced degrees and extensive fieldwork experience.

How much does a principal geologist make in the US?

A principal geoscientist in the US typically earns between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry sector. Senior roles often include leadership responsibilities and advanced technical skills, which can influence salary levels.

How does a Principal Geoscientist typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on major projects?

A Principal Geoscientist often leads collaboration between geologists, engineers, environmental scientists, and project managers to ensure that geological data informs key project decisions. They are responsible for integrating complex datasets, overseeing fieldwork and analysis, and communicating findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. This role requires strong leadership and communication skills, as Principal Geoscientists frequently facilitate meetings, coordinate project timelines, and resolve technical challenges across diverse teams.

What are Principal Geoscientists?

Principal Geoscientists are senior-level experts who lead geoscience projects, often in industries like oil and gas, mining, or environmental consulting. They provide technical direction, mentor junior staff, and ensure that geological data and interpretations meet high industry standards. Their role often involves integrating complex geological, geophysical, and geochemical data to support exploration and development decisions. Principal Geoscientists are also responsible for communicating findings to stakeholders and guiding strategic decisions based on their expertise.

What is the difference between Principal Geoscientist vs Senior Geoscientist?

AspectPrincipal GeoscientistSenior Geoscientist
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees (MSc or PhD) and extensive industry experienceUsually requires a master's degree and several years of experience
Work EnvironmentLeads projects, provides strategic direction, and mentors teamsPerforms complex technical tasks, supports project execution
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large oil, gas, and mineral companies for senior technical leadershipCommonly found in similar industries, focusing on technical expertise

The main difference between a Principal Geoscientist and a Senior Geoscientist lies in their level of responsibility and leadership. The Principal Geoscientist typically holds a higher strategic role, overseeing projects and guiding teams, while the Senior Geoscientist focuses on technical execution and project support. Both roles require strong technical skills, but the Principal position emphasizes leadership and industry influence.

What is the highest paying job in geoscience?

In geoscience, the highest paying roles are often senior positions such as Petroleum Geoscientists or Exploration Managers, especially in the oil and gas industry. These roles typically require advanced technical skills, industry experience, and often involve working in remote or challenging environments, with salaries that can exceed six figures depending on location and expertise.

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

To thrive as a Principal Geoscientist, you need advanced expertise in geology, geophysics, or a related field, usually supported by a relevant degree (often a master's or PhD) and substantial industry experience. Familiarity with geological modeling software (e.g., Petrel, Leapfrog), GIS platforms, and data interpretation tools is typically required, along with professional certifications such as CPG or P.Geo where applicable. Excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills help you guide multidisciplinary teams and engage stakeholders effectively. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering high-quality scientific analysis and strategic decision-making in complex geoscience projects.

Are hydrogeologists in demand?

Hydrogeologists are in demand due to increasing concerns over water resource management, contamination, and environmental sustainability. They often work in consulting, government agencies, or environmental firms, utilizing skills in groundwater modeling and environmental assessment, with demand expected to grow as water-related issues become more prominent.
More about Principal Geoscientist jobs
What job categories do people searching Principal Geoscientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Geoscientist jobs are:
Principal Geoscientist jobs near you
Project Geoscientist/Engineer

Project Geoscientist/Engineer

Weston Solutions

Okemos, MI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

At Weston Solutions, Inc. you will do meaningful work and make valuable contributions.Employee-ownership at Weston is a path to professional growth and access to diverse opportunities in a highly connected community that works together across key service areas to make a difference in the environment. Weston continues to evolve and adapt to our changing world as a premier provider of environmental and infrastructure services for over sixty years. In both the public and private sectors our teams help identify, solve, mitigate, and manage critical environmental issues to help clients achieve a more sustainable future.
A Project Geoscientist is responsible for task leadership, execution, and control, ensuring adherence to project scope, budget, and schedules. They serve as the field team lead on specific tasks and/or lead routine to moderately complex scopes of work under the direction of the Project Manager (PM) or Principal and Senior Project staff. Project Geoscientists are accountable for handling specific technical aspects of projects appropriate to the Geoscience discipline as members of multidisciplinary teams. They will balance work on multiple projects of moderate size or portions of large projects. Project Geoscientists are capable of technical resources and are recognized for at least one area of expertise among Weston's service offerings.
Location: Okemos, MI
Expected Outcomes:
  • Analyze, prepare, and present meaningful and precisely written scientific reports of field and laboratory results appropriate to the defined areas of investigation and based on collected data.
  • Participate in peer review of work scopes, project implementation plans, operating procedures, training, schedules, budgets, technical calculations and interpretations, and deliverables.
  • Ensure compliance with technical specifications and standard operating procedures defined in the project scope of work.
  • Lead and be responsible for complex field and office assignments, including field investigations and sampling programs.
  • Ability to perform geology-related tasks in the field including monitoring well installation, soil sampling, soil and rock descriptions, and groundwater sampling.
  • Work independently with periodic guidance.
  • Determine basic methods and procedures on core tasks and ability to determine methods and procedures on new assignments within core competencies.
  • Cooperate with the implementation of all project quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) audits and review and assist in implementing corrective actions as appropriate.
  • Clearly document project activities and is involved in assigning tasks in accordance with project plans.
  • Maintain frequent communication with the team members, PM, and client as required, to ensure effective understanding of project deliverables, concerns, and progress.
  • Maintain auditable and orderly files, notebooks, and correspondence on all project aspects.
  • Monitor staff performance and provide input to Organizational Managers for staff promotions, transfers, and performance appraisals.
  • Provide guidance and coaching to junior members, as needed.
  • Identify new technologies and techniques and evaluate their applicability and potential benefits for the company.
  • Coordinate field operations and data collection, with respect to schedule and field budget.
  • Serve as a technical lead in their area of specialty, solving technical problems with appropriate assistance from senior staff.
  • Work with team on problems of diverse scope and complexity which require sound judgment when selecting methods, analyzing data, and determining methods for reaching solutions.
  • Ability to lead moderate to complex scopes of work and field tasks.
  • Support projects from beginning to end, readily taking on tasks, as necessary, to ensure client satisfaction.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Geology, Geoscience, or a related field and have at least 6 years of related experience.
  • Experience must include 2- 3 years in planning field activities and assisting in scoping projects.
  • Membership in professional organization suited to specific practice is highly encouraged.
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze, interpret, and present data and meet deadlines outlined by project leadership.
  • Capable technical resource who handles core technical issues.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks to meet project requirements.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office software, as well as various means of communication.
  • Demonstrated strength in verbal and written communications is necessary.
  • Demonstrated leadership traits are highly preferred.
  • Available to travel as needed.
  • Ability to lift 40 pounds.
  • Ability to function in outdoor location such as active construction and/or remediation sites.
  • Ability to walk long distances on varied terrain, climb ladders, and work at elevation.
We fully invest in our people:Weston provides a generous,comprehensive benefits package program that offers employees high value options with solid financial protection, meeting the personal needs of its people and their families.
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K with base and matching employer stock contributions.
  • Paid time off including personal, holiday, and parental leave.
  • Life and disability plans.
  • Critical illness and accident plans.
  • Work/Life flexibility.
  • Professional development opportunities.
Compensation will vary based upon experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors.
Employment Type: Full-Time

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