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Senior Engineering Geologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Engineering Geologist

Diamond Bar, CA ยท On-site

$130 - $170/hr

Tetra Tech is adding an Engineering Geologist to our team based in Diamond Bar, CA. The group specializes in geotechnical engineering and geologic assessment projects mostly locally in southern ...

Tetra Tech is adding an Engineering Geologist to our team based in Diamond Bar, CA. The group specializes in geotechnical engineering and geologic assessment projects mostly locally in southern ...

Mid-Senior Geologist

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Mid-Senior Geologist (PG/ CEG/ CHG) We currently seek a Mid to Senior Level Geologist ... Disposition of non-conforming products as per engineering training matrix. Qualifications: * 5 to ...

Senior Geologist (MS/PhD)

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$115K - $135K/yr

About Exponent Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the ... Senior Geologist for our Civil & Structural Engineering Practice in Los Angeles, CA; Oakland, CA;

Senior Geologist (MS/PhD)

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$115 - $135/hr

About Exponent Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the ... Senior Geologist for our Civil & Structural Engineering Practice in Los Angeles, CA; Oakland, CA;

Senior Geologist

Fountain Valley, CA ยท On-site

$120 - $180/hr

This position is suited for an experienced professional with a strong background in engineering ... As a Senior Geologist, you will lead field investigations, interpret subsurface conditions, prepare ...

Associate professionals are registered geotechnical engineers or geologists, typically with ... Provide senior level review of proposals and reports. * Make presentations to clients and staff.

Lead Geologist - Land

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

Associate professionals are registered geotechnical engineers or geologists, typically with ... Provide senior level review of proposals and reports. * Make presentations to clients and staff.

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Engineering Geologist information

See California salary details

$13.3K

$112.5K

$167.3K

How much do senior engineering geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior engineering geologist in California is $112,529.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,300.00 and $135,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior engineering geologist?

To thrive as a Senior Engineering Geologist, you need advanced expertise in geology, geotechnical engineering, and site investigation, typically supported by a relevant degree and professional licensure (e.g., P.G., CEG, or PE). Familiarity with geotechnical modeling software, GIS, soil/rock testing equipment, and report-writing tools is essential. Strong analytical thinking, leadership, and effective communication are standout soft skills for coordinating multidisciplinary teams and client interactions. These competencies are crucial for delivering accurate risk assessments and safe, sustainable engineering solutions for complex projects.

What is the difference between Senior Engineering Geologist vs Engineering Geologist?

AspectSenior Engineering GeologistEngineering Geologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology or related field; 5+ years experienceBachelor's degree in Geology or related field; entry to 2 years experience
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, site assessments, project managementFieldwork, site investigations, data collection
Employer & Industry UsageConsulting firms, construction, environmental agenciesEngineering firms, environmental consulting, construction

The main difference between a Senior Engineering Geologist and an Engineering Geologist lies in experience, responsibilities, and expertise. Senior Engineering Geologists typically have more years of experience, handle complex projects, and may oversee junior staff. Engineering Geologists are often entry to mid-level professionals focused on field investigations and data collection. Both roles are essential in geotechnical and environmental projects, but the senior role involves greater leadership and project management responsibilities.

How much do senior engineering geologists make in the US?

Senior engineering geologists in the US typically earn between $70,000 and $110,000 annually, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and industry. They often require strong knowledge of geological analysis, fieldwork, and report writing, and may hold professional certifications such as PG (Professional Geologist).

How does a senior engineering geologist typically collaborate with other professionals on complex infrastructure projects?

Senior Engineering Geologists often work closely with civil engineers, project managers, and environmental scientists to assess ground conditions and provide recommendations for safe and cost-effective construction. Collaboration involves attending multidisciplinary meetings, sharing geotechnical data, and integrating geological findings into design plans. Effective communication is key, as your insights will influence critical decisions regarding site selection, risk mitigation, and construction methods. This teamwork not only ensures project success but also provides opportunities to expand your professional network and learn from other experts.

What is a senior engineering geologist?

Senior Engineering Geologists are experienced professionals who study the earth's materials, such as rocks and soil, to assess their suitability for construction projects and to identify potential geological hazards. They work closely with engineers and architects to provide recommendations on site selection, foundation design, and risk mitigation for infrastructure developments. In addition to conducting field investigations and laboratory tests, they often supervise junior geologists and ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Their expertise is crucial for the safe and sustainable design of buildings, roads, dams, and other structures.
What are the most commonly searched types of Engineering Geologist jobs in California? The most popular types of Engineering Geologist jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Senior Engineering Geologist jobs? Cities in California with the most Senior Engineering Geologist job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Engineering Geologist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,529 per year, or $54.1 per hour.

Senior Engineering Geologist

Quanta Infrastructure Solutions Group, LLC

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

About Us

QISG leverages Quantaโ€™s comprehensive resources to deliver collaborative solutions for our partners' energy infrastructure needs. We use in-house talent, expertise and resources to plan, design, engineer, manage, conduct maintenance on and construct projects.

Our turnkey service capabilities provide our customers with efficiency, consistency, attention to detail and safe execution. The QISG team brings together Engineering, Safety, Quality, Material Procurement, QA/QC, Right-of-Way Acquisition, Scheduling, Environmental Planning, Permitting, Title and Land Management expertise that ensure outstanding results for our clients.

About this Role

A Senior Engineering Geologist within QISG is involved in a variety of geo-structural engineering projects with a focus on foundation engineering and an emphasis on design-build delivery methods for large-scale energy generation and transmission-related projects. Collaborating with an in-house, multi-disciplinary engineering and construction teamโ€”including civil, structural, geotechnical, GIS, construction management, and construction expertsโ€” a Senior Engineering Geologist within QISG plays a crucial role in providing geo-structural design solutions on large scale projects; responsibilities include overseeing and supporting design production, development of construction drawings and specifications, engineering support during construction, and interacting with key project stakeholders as a leader within the geostructural engineering team.

This role is an office-based position with a primary focus on executing pre-construction geotechnical investigations, geologic hazard assessments, geotechnical engineering calculations and modeling, and design document development to support foundation, retaining wall, and/or general civil construction. The Senior Engineering Geologist will be expected to apply standard and advanced engineering principles to solve complex problems. A successful candidate is able to utilize sound geotechnical engineering judgment, and digital technologies to develop economical solutions and communicate effectively with project management, technical, construction, and company personnel as well as company leadership.

What You'll Do
  • Support a team of engineering geologists, geotechnical engineers, and staff, working on various types of civil engineering structures, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations.
  • Execute assignments requiring application of standard and advanced engineering techniques, procedures, and criteria to carry out geo-structural engineering tasks.
  • Interface closely with other project-level and senior leadership personnel within the company, including geotechnical, geological, structural, transmission line, substation, and civil engineering, GIS, and construction management team members.
  • Participate in oversight and management of field subcontractor activities, such as geotechnical drilling and testing and/or forensics studies.
  • Develop written reports and/or provide verbal communication of information in a professional and appropriate manner.
  • Develop and manage project budgets, monitor expenses, and ensure cost-effective solutions.
  • Take responsible charge of geologic hazard modeling for geotechnical design, including seismic/fault characterization and flood/scour modeling.
  • Implement and oversee quality control procedures to ensure the highest standards of workmanship and materials.
  • Work under supervision of Engineering Director or Engineering Manager in a professional office setting.
  • Perform special projects and completes other jobโ€‘related duties as assigned.
What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor of Science degree (BS) in Geologic Science or related field
  • Professional Geologist (PG) and/or Specialty (ChG, EG) licensure
  • Minimum ten (10) years experience in the geotechnical, transmission, or substation engineering field
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work with moderate supervision and maximum efficiency in a small or medium size office setting
  • Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams
  • Familiarity with use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and associated software for collection and analysis of large geological and geotechnical data sets.
  • Familiarity with engineering analyses for soil and rock slope stability and design of deep foundations and retaining structures utilizing modern computer software (SLIDE, DIPS, Rocslope, LPILE, GROUP, SHAFT, etc.).
  • Experience with construction-phase geotechnical services, including quality control observation, contractor coordination, and execution of civil specifications
What Youโ€™ll Get

QISG Benefits Highlights

  • Competitive Compensation
  • Comprehensive Health Coverageโ€”Multiple Medical, dental & vision plans with 100% preventive care
  • 24/7 telehealth (Teladoc)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Companyโ€‘funded HSA and preโ€‘tax savings options
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Noโ€‘cost Shortโ€‘ and Longโ€‘term Disability
  • Employerโ€‘paid basic Life & AD&D Insurance
  • Paid Time off (PTO) and 10 Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental leave
  • Education Reimbursement and Professional Development
  • Employee discount program and optional insurance offerings:
    • Identity Theft Protection
    • Accident Insurance
    • Voluntary Life (spouse and child)
    • Critical Illness
    • Hospital Indemnity
    • Pet Insurance
Compensation Range

The anticipated compensation for this position is - depending on experience and qualifications.

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact the companyโ€™s Human Resources department.

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