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Senior Exploration Geologist Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

GRI

Geotechnical Engineer, Staff

Portland, OR · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

... senior engineers. GRI is an employee-owned, full-service geotechnical, pavement, geological, and ... Perform and manage field explorations. * Manage and coordinate work with drilling subcontractors.

GRI

Geotechnical Engineer, Staff

Portland, OR · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

... senior engineers. GRI is an employee-owned, full-service geotechnical, pavement, geological, and ... Perform and manage field explorations.Manage and coordinate work with drilling subcontractors.

SupportFinity™

Hydrogeologist Lead

Portland, OR · On-site

$100 - $160/hr

What we are looking for Join SCS as a Senior Hydrogeologist and lead the charge in planning and ... Bachelor of Science degree in Hydrogeology, Geology, Environmental Chemistry or related science ...

GeoEngineers

Project Geotechnical Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$89K - $126K/yr

Lead or coordinate the development and implementation of field exploration programs and ... Manage small projects under the supervision of a certified professional engineer or geologist as ...

GeoWorld

Civil - Geotechnical

Portland, OR · On-site

$89 - $126/hr

Lead or coordinate the development and implementation of field exploration programs and ... Manage small projects under the supervision of a certified professional engineer or geologist as ...

All JobsExploration Geologist JobsSenior Exploration Geologist JobsSenior Exploration Geologist Jobs in Oregon

Senior Exploration Geologist information

See Oregon salary details

$14.3K

$120.6K

$179.2K

How much do senior exploration geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior exploration geologist in Oregon is $120,554.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,800.00 and $144,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior exploration geologist do?

A Senior Exploration Geologist leads and manages geological exploration projects to identify and assess mineral or resource deposits. They analyze geological data, design exploration strategies, and oversee fieldwork, including drilling and sampling. In addition, they collaborate with other geoscientists, interpret results to determine resource potential, and ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Senior Exploration Geologists often play a key role in decision-making for resource development and may supervise junior geologists.

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

To thrive as a Senior Exploration Geologist, you need in-depth knowledge of geology, mineral deposit modeling, and field mapping, typically backed by an advanced degree in geology or earth sciences and several years of industry experience. Proficiency with GIS software, geological modeling tools like Leapfrog or Micromine, and familiarity with drilling and sampling techniques are crucial. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills set top performers apart, enabling effective team management and data interpretation. These competencies are essential for identifying viable resources, guiding exploration projects, and supporting strategic business decisions.

How does a senior exploration geologist typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on mineral exploration projects?

A Senior Exploration Geologist regularly works alongside geophysicists, mining engineers, environmental scientists, and field technicians to design and execute exploration programs. They coordinate data collection, interpret geological findings, and communicate results to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Effective collaboration ensures that exploration strategies align with project goals, budgets, and environmental regulations. As a senior member, the geologist often leads meetings, mentors junior staff, and integrates input from various disciplines to drive the project forward.

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

AspectSenior Exploration GeologistExploration Geologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, extensive field experienceBachelor's or Master's in Geology or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, project management, team leadershipFieldwork, data analysis, reporting
Industry UsageUsed in mining, oil & gas, mineral exploration companiesEntry to mid-level roles in similar industries
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding senior roles, career progressionEntry-level understanding, role responsibilities

Senior Exploration Geologists typically have more experience, leadership responsibilities, and advanced credentials compared to Exploration Geologists. They often oversee projects and mentor junior staff, whereas Exploration Geologists focus on fieldwork and data collection. Both roles are essential in mineral and energy exploration industries, but the senior position involves greater responsibility and expertise.

What are the most commonly searched types of Exploration Geologist jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Exploration Geologist jobs in Oregon are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Exploration Geologist jobs in Oregon?

For Senior Exploration Geologist jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Exploration Geologist jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Exploration Geologist jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Senior Exploration Geologist jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Senior Exploration Geologist job openings:

Senior Exploration Geologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Exploration Geologist job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,554 per year, or $58 per hour.

Geotechnical Engineer, Staff

GRI

Portland, OR • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

GRI is seeking a Staff Geotechnical Engineer to join our growing team. As a Staff Engineer at GRI, you will gain experience working on a variety of interesting assignments under the mentorship of project/senior engineers.
GRI is an employee-owned, full-service geotechnical, pavement, geological, and environmental engineering consulting firm based in the Portland, Oregon area. We are an ambitious, highly trained, diversified staff of engineers and geologists. GRI promotes a collaborative work culture, supports training and career development, and encourages work-life integration, which results in a highly desirable work environment.
General responsibilities include:
  • Perform and manage field explorations.
  • Manage and coordinate work with drilling subcontractors.
  • Collect soil, rock, and groundwater samples & data; evaluate & interpret data.
  • Perform lab testing including Atterbergs, Consols, Direct Shear, Proctor, Triaxial, etc.
  • Perform engineering analyses.
  • Perform settlement analyses.
  • Conduct pile design.
  • Perform slope stability analysis & design.
  • Conduct pavement condition index surveys for roadways & airfields.
  • Perform back-calculation analysis & interpret FWD data.
  • Perform traffic loading analysis.
  • Write simple reports; draft more complex reports for senior engineer review such as site investigations, site assessments, and remediation activities.
  • Observe construction activities on site to ensure they meet design criteria.
  • Prepare concise and timely site visit reports.
  • Process GPR data.
  • Communicate on project sites with contractors / subcontractors.
  • Identify and understand unsuitable conditions in the field, apply knowledge to real-world situations on project sites to make recommendations.
  • Understand proper piles, anchor testing, fill placement, drilled shafts, and apply knowledge to real-world conditions on project sites to identify inappropriate or unsuitable conditions/ application, & make recommendations in real-time.
  • Generate geologic maps & cross-sections with assistance of Drafting staff and / or other Geologic or Engineering Staff.
  • Attend internal and external project meetings.
  • Actively engage in mentorship activities with senior GRI staff.
  • Attend professional society meetings.

Required Skills / Abilities:
  • Strong understanding of geotechnical engineering design and investigation, and the terms and methodology used in geotechnical engineering.
  • Ability to perform calculations and use tools to compute data Skilled in use and application of geotechnical numerical modeling software.
  • Experience with soil structure interaction.
  • Familiarity with bridge and waterfront design and construction.
  • Interpret and communicate site plans and specifications.
  • Communicate clearly with project managers; ability to manage time and meet deadlines.
  • Engage in client networking to level appropriate; participate in firm outreach activities.
  • Ability to work with a variety of other personnel in the office and in the field.

Position Requirements:
  • M.S. Civil Engineering (Geotechnical option).
  • EIT Preferred.
  • Valid driver's license.

Physical Requirements:
  • Use computers, tablets, and mobile devices.
  • Perform physical tasks on project sites that may include walking, climbing, crawling, or standing for long periods of time.
  • Lift up to 65 pounds at times.
  • Travel to project sites in vehicles.

Annual Salary: $70,000 - $90,000
GRI offers a comprehensive compensation package that includes competitive salary, generous PTO accrual, 9 paid holidays, 401K with immediate company contribution, 100% employer paid Medical / Dental / Vision / Life / Disability insurance, eligibility for annual bonuses, and continuing education and training reimbursement programs.
GRI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
GRI logo

About GRI

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Tigard, OR, US

Year founded

1984

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