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Rock Collecting Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

... rock coring. * Operating specialized geophysical, survey, and data-acquisition equipment and ... Experience collecting, reviewing, organizing, and documenting scientific or engineering field data.

... rock coring. * Operating specialized geophysical, survey, and data-acquisition equipment and ... Experience collecting, reviewing, organizing, and documenting scientific or engineering field data.

New

... rock coring. * Operating specialized geophysical, survey, and data-acquisition equipment and ... Experience collecting, reviewing, organizing, and documenting scientific or engineering field data.

New

Rock Collecting information

What is rock collecting?

A rock collecting job involves searching for, identifying, and gathering rocks, minerals, or fossils for various purposes, including scientific research, education, jewelry making, or industrial use. Collectors may work for museums, geological surveys, private companies, or as independent prospectors. The job often includes fieldwork in diverse environments, from mountains to quarries. Knowledge of geology, mineral identification, and safety procedures is essential. Some positions may require specialized tools or permits, depending on the location and type of materials collected.

What skills and qualifications are needed for rock collecting?

To thrive as a Rock Collector, you need knowledge of geology, attention to detail, and physical stamina, often supported by a degree in geology or earth sciences. Use of GPS devices, rock hammers, field notebooks, and sometimes specialized laboratory equipment is typical in this role. Strong observational skills, effective communication, and an enthusiasm for outdoor fieldwork help candidates stand out. Mastering these abilities ensures accurate collection, identification, and documentation of rock samples, which supports scientific research and industry applications.

What are common challenges faced by rock collectors in the field?

Rock Collectors often face challenges such as working in remote or rugged terrains, dealing with unpredictable weather conditions, and carrying heavy equipment and samples. Additionally, accurately identifying and documenting rock types on-site can be demanding, especially when dealing with limited resources or time constraints. Teamwork is essential for safety and efficiency, as collectors frequently collaborate with geologists, researchers, or mining professionals. Overcoming these challenges requires adaptability, thorough preparation, and strong problem-solving skills, making the role both rewarding and dynamic.

How to become a rock collector?

To become a rock collector, start by researching different types of rocks and minerals, and gather basic tools like a hammer, chisel, and safety goggles. Join local or online rockhounding groups, visit mineral shows, and practice collecting and identifying specimens responsibly. Developing knowledge about geology and proper collection techniques can enhance your skills as a rock collector.

What job collects rocks?

A rock collector is someone who gathers rocks as a hobby or for scientific purposes, but in a professional context, jobs like geologists, mineralogists, or field technicians often involve collecting rocks and mineral samples for research or exploration. These roles typically require knowledge of geology, fieldwork skills, and sometimes specialized equipment or certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rock Collecting jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Rock Collecting jobs in Washington are:

What job categories do people searching Rock Collecting jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Rock Collecting jobs in Washington are:

Infographic showing various Rock Collecting job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Staff Geologist - Suffolk, VA

Tetra Tech

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


Tetra Tech rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

404th of 450 rated engineering


Job description

The Opportunity:

Tetra Tech is currently seeking an entry-level Geologist with 0 to 3 years' experience needed for a field position based out of the Suffolk, VA location. This position will provide a dynamic, team-oriented work environment and an exceptional opportunity for career growth. The selected candidate will work on a wide range of hydrogeological and environmental engineering projects. Much of the work will be in the field and may require occasional night and weekend work. The selected candidate will support our water resource department in geology, soils, surface water, and groundwater field and office services for various projects in central Virginia and throughout the U.S. Responsibilities include planning, preparing for, and performing field activities such as collecting soil, rock, and groundwater samples; overseeing well drilling, construction, and testing; leading junior staff; performing geophysical surveys and aquifer performance testing; records retrievals and research; consumptive and water use permitting; data review and analysis; report, presentation and work plan preparation. Candidate must have the ability to be thorough in notetaking and preparation of data reports and have excellent communication skills.

Why Tetra Tech:

At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world's most complex challenges.  Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world.  For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.  Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development.  Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.

Your Impact:

Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference.  Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential - join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Review, comprehend, prepare, and complete work scopes.

  • Communicate on site conditions with senior staff and make field determinations based on site data.

  • Interpret basic geologic information; prepare boring logs, cross sections, and groundwater flow maps.

  • Perform project tasks on public and private sector hydrogeological and environmental projects.

  • Significant involvement as team member on field tasks including, but not limited to, multi-media sampling, well installation, environmental studies, IDW management.

  • Manage and coordinate well drilling crews and oversee data collection and quality control of large data sets.

  • Develop key elements of reports, presentations, and work plans, as well as perform document QA/QC under the direction of senior staff.

  • Assist with management and direction of junior staff to execute project assignments.

  • Assist in preparation of subcontract documents, work plans and reports under direction of senior engineers and scientists.

  • Potentially perform groundwater and/or surface water modeling tasks.

  • Prepare geographic information system (GIS) maps.

  • Assist in and coordinate data evaluation and report preparation.

  • Be willing and able to travel to job sites around VA or outside of the State, occasionally for multiple days.

  • Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Science degree specializing in Geology.

  • 0 - 3 years of experience.

  • Knowledge of Virginia geology and hydrogeology, and skilled in soil and rock classification.

  • Comfortable using analytical and field equipment for hydrogeological investigations.

  • Ability to direct field personnel and supervise drillers on projects.

  • Must be able to work effectively with other technical professionals.

  • Neat, legible handwriting is mandatory. Candidate must have the ability to create rigorously detailed documentation of field activities.

  • Working knowledge of MS office software.

  • Ability to read, research, analyze, and interpret professional journals, technical documents and procedures, and government regulations, and write detailed reports, business correspondence, and procedures suitable for client submittal.

  • Effectively present information, communicate, and respond to questions from groups of coworkers, clients, customers, and the general public.

  • Effective communication skills, both orally and in written form.

  • Ability to travel and perform field work/oversight.

  • A Pre-employment drug screening in compliance with state regulations is required.

  • Must possess a valid driver's license with a clean driving record without restrictions.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 1 - 2 years of experience preferred.

  • Geologist in Training (GIT) in the State of Virginia a plus.

  • Bilingual capability (Spanish) is a plus.

  • Experience with aquifer performance testing, geophysical logging, and rock coring preferred.

  • OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER training and current 8-hour refresher training, preferred.

  • Standard First Aid and CPR Training preferred.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull equipment weighing up to 50lbs.

  • Ability to travel (approx. 25% of travel required).

  • Ability to walk across variable terrain, including uneven ground, in all weather conditions (hot/cold temperatures, loud noises, heavy equipment, etc.) for field work.

  • Office work will consist of time sitting or standing at a desk and using a computer and other office equipment.

Work Environment / Environmental Factors:

  • Field work will include work to be performed outside at construction and well drilling sites, as a result may include working in various environmental factors (weather, altitude, terrain, noise, etc.). This can include remaining stationary for long periods of time, walking, bending, lifting, and sitting for site assessments, sampling, oversight, and other field activities.

  • Office work will include extended periods sitting or standing at a desk and using a computer.

Additional Information:

  • Full-time, Monday through Friday work schedule (40 hours). Occasionally extended hours may be required based on project and/or client needs.

  • Work will be performed in an office, field, and client site setting.

Target salary range:  $53,000 to $63,000. Please note that Tetra Tech considers various factors in determining pay, including but not limited to: education, relevant and demonstrated work experience in the role, skills, geographic location, qualifications, certifications, and other competencies relevant to the needs of the business.

Life at Tetra Tech:

The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:

  • Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.
  • Tetra Tech offers the following optional benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Long & Short-Term Disability, Health & Dependent Care Flexible Spending. Financial Benefits: Group Term Life, Optional Group Term Life Insurance, Business Travel Accident Insurance, Health Savings Account, 401K, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Time Off with Pay, Employee Assistance Program, Adoption Assistance, Leaves of Absence.
  • Merit-based financial rewards.
  • Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
  • Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
  • Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.

About Tetra Tech:

Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.

Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.

We invite applications from all interested parties.

Explore our open positions at https://www.tetratech.com/careers. Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:

LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers

X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

Please no phone calls or agencies.

Additional Information
  • Organization: 117 ECS

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Tetra Tech logo

About Tetra Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Tetra Tech combines the resources of a global, multibillion-dollar company with local, client-focused delivery in more than 450 locations around the world. Our reputation rests on the technical expertise and dedication of our employees-21,000 associates working together to provide smart, scalable solutions for challenging projects. We are proud to be home to leading technical experts in water, environment, infrastructure, resource management, energy, and international development.

Industry

Civil engineering construction and environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pasadena, CA, US