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Professional Geologist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Professional Geologist (P.G.) License * Valid Driver's License (with no significant motor vehicle record blemishes) Technical Responsibilities * Leads field task from the field or office. * Field ...

... professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world. We ... AECOM is looking for a Mid-Level Geologist to grow their career - where we'll empower you to learn ...

... professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world. We ... AECOM is looking for a Mid-Level Geologist to grow their career - where we'll empower you to learn ...

... professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world. We ... AECOM is looking for a Mid-Level Geologist to grow their career - where we'll empower you to learn ...

... professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world. We ... AECOM is looking for a Mid-Level Geologist to grow their career - where we'll empower you to learn ...

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Showing results 1-20

Professional Geologist information

See Virginia salary details

$35.7K

$76.4K

$123.4K

How much do professional geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional geologist in Virginia is $76,370.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,500.00 and $92,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Professional Geologist, you need a solid background in earth sciences, fieldwork experience, and typically a degree in geology or a related discipline, often accompanied by state licensure or certification. Familiarity with GIS software, geological mapping tools, and laboratory analytical systems is commonly expected. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help geologists interpret data and present findings clearly to diverse audiences. These skills and qualifications are crucial for accurately assessing geological conditions, ensuring compliance with regulations, and supporting successful project outcomes.

What are some common challenges professional geologists face when conducting fieldwork?

Professional geologists often encounter challenges during fieldwork, such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and remote locations that can complicate data collection. Ensuring personal safety while handling specialized equipment and adhering to environmental regulations also requires careful planning. Effective communication and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, such as engineers and environmental scientists, are essential for overcoming logistical obstacles and ensuring project success. Flexibility and adaptability are key traits for managing unexpected changes and maintaining project timelines.

What is the difference between Professional Geologist vs Geoscientist?

AspectProfessional GeologistGeoscientist
CredentialsRequires state licensure, degree in geology, and work experienceTypically requires a degree in geoscience or related field; licensure not always required
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, consulting, regulatory agencies, environmental firmsResearch, academia, industry analysis, government agencies
Industry UsageCommonly employed in environmental consulting, mining, oil & gas, regulationUsed across research, academia, energy, and environmental sectors

While both Professional Geologists and Geoscientists work in earth sciences, Professional Geologists are licensed professionals often involved in regulatory and consulting roles, whereas Geoscientists may focus more on research and analysis without licensure requirements.

Is there a high demand for professional geologists?

The demand for professional geologists remains steady due to ongoing needs in natural resource exploration, environmental consulting, and hazard assessment. Employment opportunities are often influenced by the energy, mining, and environmental sectors, with a requirement for strong fieldwork, data analysis, and technical skills. Job growth varies by region and industry trends, but overall, the profession offers stable prospects for qualified geologists.

What is a professional geologist?

Professional Geologists are licensed experts who study the Earth’s structure, composition, and processes to solve problems related to natural resources, environmental protection, and land use. They often work in fields such as environmental consulting, mining, oil and gas exploration, and government regulation. Professional Geologists analyze soil, rock, and water samples, prepare reports, and provide recommendations based on their findings. To become licensed, they typically need a degree in geology, relevant work experience, and to pass a professional examination. Their work helps ensure public safety and responsible management of natural resources.

What do professional geologists do?

Professional geologists study the Earth's materials, processes, and history to understand natural resources, environmental issues, and geological hazards. They conduct fieldwork, analyze samples, create maps, and use specialized tools and software to interpret geological data, often working in labs or in the field. Certification and strong knowledge of geology, chemistry, and physics are important for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Geologist jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Geologist jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Professional Geologist jobs in Virginia? For Professional Geologist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Professional Geologist jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Professional Geologist jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Professional Geologist jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Professional Geologist job openings:
Infographic showing various Professional Geologist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,370 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


GAI Consultants rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 441 rated engineering


Job description

GAI Consultants, Inc. is seeking a Geologist 3 under the direction of an Engineering Geology Manager for the Geotechnical Engineering Group in the Pittsburgh or Philadelphia, PA, Canton, OH, Charleston or Bridgeport, WV, or Richmond, VA areas. This individual will provide geological support for projects in the Energy, Transportation, and Community Development business units. The position will require travel and fieldwork generally located in Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, and Virginia.

Essential Duties:

  • Manage and perform engineering geology assignments involving subsurface investigations and geologic site characterization for a variety of facilities including, but not limited to:  embankments and cut slopes for roadways and other developments, foundations for roadways, bridges, dams, retaining walls, transmission lines, buildings, and other structures; designs for natural gas pipelines and compressor stations; design of waste landfills and impoundments; and development of geotechnical monitoring and laboratory testing programs. Typical work tasks will include, but are not limited to: Monitoring and logging of test borings; Site reconnaissance; Installation and monitoring of geotechnical field instrumentation; Selection of samples for laboratory testing.
  • Perform earthwork construction monitoring and foundation inspection. The individual will be responsible for interpreting specifications and construction drawings, evaluating site conditions based on construction excavations, monitoring and reporting on construction activities, and performing field testing of soils.
  • Prepare boring logs and geologic cross sections; assist with proposals, budgets, schedules, specifications, and reports. 
  • Assist with geotechnical engineering designs involving: rock/soil slope stability; cut slope and fill embankment design; shallow and deep foundation recommendations, and landslide remediation.
  • Travel can be expected in the form of fieldwork, which can be daily local travel or weekly out-of-town travel.

General Characteristics

  • Attention to detail; Possess basic skills for geological/geotechnical investigations and construction monitoring; follows GAI procedures; learns and applies record keeping protocols; learns and applies data collection, recording and interpretation skills, learns and applies technical literature research and review methods, available for frequent travel and field work.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

  • Candidate can be expected to traverse steep terrain and carry up to 50 lbs. 

Minimum Years of Experience

  • 5-8+ Years of Experience

Education

  • B.S. or M.S. in Geology or Engineering Geology

Certification/Licensure

  • Professional Geologist (P.G.) License
  • Valid Driver’s License (with no significant motor vehicle record blemishes)

Technical Responsibilities

  • Leads field task from the field or office.
  • Field tasks include collecting geotechnical and environmental samples (soil, sediment, groundwater, soil vapor, stormwater), logging soil borings, installing monitoring wells, performing site inspections, performing compliance monitoring during construction, and writing clear, concise field notes.
  • Prepare data and visualizations such as tables, charts, accurate reports, and illustrations for the interpretation or presentation of data, findings, or analyses.
  • Shows ability and skill in contributing to the preparation of technical reports and presentations that explain research and findings to present geotechnical solutions.
  • Begins to independently contribute to work plans to investigate geologic and geotechnical engineering projects.

Management Responsibility

  • Receives and carries out general direction on key objectives.
  • Receives guidance, when necessary, on unconventional/complex problems, direction on modified techniques, and new approaches on assignments with conflicting criteria.
  • Assists with mentored experience to direct reports and junior staff through providing guidance, explaining professional responsibilities, and reviewing work products.
  • Attends project meetings and presents specific aspects of geologic assignments.
  • Demonstrates professional attitudes relevant to the practice of geology, including creativity, curiosity, flexibility, and dependability.
  • If assigned as direct supervisor, skilled at mentoring, decision making and conflict resolution; delegating tasks effectively; demonstrating responsibility and leadership as a role model for others to follow.

Communication Skills

  • Communicates effectively in English (verbally and in writing) to both technical and nontechnical audiences.
  • Identifies and acknowledges principles of teamwork and leadership. 
  • Interacts primarily with internal project team members.
  • Practices professionalism and respectful inclusion in the workplace.
  • Engages in project stakeholder interactions.

Why GAI? 

At GAI, exceptional people have an exceptional place to work, grow, lead, and achieve. Explore an array of opportunities in locations across the U.S. and join accomplished colleagues in tackling challenging projects for a range of markets. Enjoy comprehensive benefits and feel good about being part of a collaborative team that’s committed to supporting the communities we serve. Join GAI and distinguish yourself in a company poised for unlimited growth.

Benefits To Working at GAI Include: 

  • Competitive salary -GAI is committed to paying market-based salaries
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, company paid Long Term Disability, and Short-Term Disability (benefits start within 30 days of hire) 
  • New paid Maternity/Paternity/Adoption program  
  • Generous Paid Time Off and 7 paid holidays
  • 401k company match
  • Tuition Reimbursement       

What GAI Consultants employees say

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About GAI Consultants

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

GAI Consultants is an employee-owned corporation offering comprehensive engineering, planning, and environmental consulting services to diverse industry sectors, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in the United States. The company operates in the field of engineering consulting and provides sustainable and economically-viable solutions to clients ranging from bridge design, community planning, to industrial facilities, ecological studies, and more. GAI Consultants was founded in 1958 and, over more than six decades, has grown significantly with a strong commitment to advancing clients' projects and contributing to community development. The firm operates on the core values of integrity, client satisfaction, quality, and workforce development, all of which raises the bar on client service and project excellence, ultimately contributing to the company’s mission, which is 'to create and deliver superior, innovative consulting solutions that enrich the lives of our people and enhance the world we live in.'

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1958

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