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Senior Geologist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Senior Geologist

Nevada, IA ยท On-site

$120 - $180/hr

The Senior Geologist reports to the Technical Services Manager and provides geologic support to mine operations, technical services, processing plants, and refinery process control. This role ensures ...

Senior Environmental Scientist

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$81K - $109K/yr

Our Central Environmental business is looking for a Senior Environmental Scientist to join their ... Bachelor's and/or Master's degree in Environmental Engineering, Geology, Environmental Science or ...

Our Central Environmental business is looking for a Senior Environmental Scientist to join their ... Bachelor's and/or Master's degree in Environmental Engineering, Geology, Environmental Science or ...

Senior Geologist information

See Iowa salary details

$12.7K

$107.1K

$159.2K

How much do senior geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior geologist in Iowa is $107,097.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,900.00 and $128,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Senior Geologist, you need strong expertise in geological mapping, data analysis, and field investigation, typically supported by an advanced degree in geology or earth sciences and several years of industry experience. Familiarity with GIS software, modeling tools, and data management systems, as well as certifications like Professional Geologist (PG), are commonly required. Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help manage teams and convey complex information to stakeholders. These competencies ensure the accurate interpretation of geological data, effective project management, and informed decision-making in exploration or environmental projects.

Is there a high demand for senior geologists?

The demand for senior geologists remains strong in industries such as oil and gas, environmental consulting, and mining, especially in regions with active resource exploration and environmental projects. Experienced geologists with skills in GIS, data analysis, and certifications like PG are sought after to support exploration, environmental assessments, and sustainable development initiatives.

What are the main challenges a senior geologist faces when managing field teams and projects?

Senior Geologists often juggle multiple projects simultaneously, which requires strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively. A significant challenge is coordinating diverse field teams, often working in remote or challenging environments, to ensure safety and data accuracy. Additionally, they must adapt to evolving project scopes and regulatory requirements, all while mentoring junior staff and maintaining clear communication across multidisciplinary teams. Proactive problem-solving and flexibility are essential to overcome these hurdles and deliver successful project outcomes.

How much do senior geologists make in the US?

Senior geologists in the US typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry sector. They often require strong fieldwork skills, geological software proficiency, and relevant certifications such as Professional Geologist (PG).

What does a senior geologist do?

As a senior geologist, your responsibilities are to oversee geological operations and site investigations where you and your team collect samples, locate mineral or natural resource deposits, and assess the geological stability or characteristics of a site. Other tasks include testing and analyzing samples and developing action plans based on your findings. Geologists work in numerous fields, including mining, petroleum or natural gas exploration, construction, and government. Your duties may differ depending on the industry in which you work.

What is the difference between Senior Geologist vs Geoscientist?

AspectSenior GeologistGeoscientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, extensive field experienceBachelor's or higher in Geoscience or related field, often entry to mid-level
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, site assessments, data analysisResearch, data interpretation, laboratory work
Industry UsageMining, oil & gas, environmental consultingResearch institutions, government agencies, energy companies

Senior Geologists typically have more field experience and take on leadership roles in exploration and site assessment projects. Geoscientists often focus on research, data analysis, and supporting exploration efforts. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Senior Geologists usually have more practical experience and responsibilities in project management.

What are the most commonly searched types of Geologist jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Geologist jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Geologist jobs in Iowa? For Senior Geologist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Geologist jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Geologist jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Senior Geologist jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Senior Geologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Geologist jobs in IA? For Senior Geologist jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Senior Geologist job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,097 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Senior Geologist

Integra Resources Corp.

Nevada, IA โ€ข On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

The Senior Geologist reports to the Technical Services Manager and provides geologic support to mine operations, technical services, processing plants, and refinery process control. This role ensures production plan requirements are met by managing ore quality, field mapping, drilling and sampling programs, data analysis, and exploration activities safely and responsibly. Strong communication and teamwork are essential to drive alignment and accountability across teams.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Expand geological knowledge by identifying data gaps, drill targets, and resource extension opportunities; design tests and interpret and analyze results.
  • Complete geological mapping, data compilation, synthesis, interpretation, drill target recommendations, drill program design, and core and reverse-circulation chip logging.
  • Develop, implement, and maintain safe, effective, and auditable geological modeling, core logging, structural mapping, lithological mapping, and ore-zone mapping systems.
  • Assist with exploration, drilling, and geological modeling programs, including project plans, schedules, budgets, cost tracking, quality control, and monthly reporting.
  • Assist with resource estimations and maintain accurate, auditable resource block models, ensuring year-end and production models are delivered on time.
  • Provide geological and project information to the Exploration and Technical Services Manager and other members of management as requested.
  • Complete geologic mapping, geologic data compilation/ synthesis and interpretation, drill target recommendation, drill program design and management, core and RC chip logging.
  • Responsible for following infill drill budget and tracking costs to report monthly.
  • Supervise Staff and contract geologists, Geo-technicians.
  • Ensure projects have clear and appropriate decision points and that they are adhered to.
  • Demonstrate leadership in Health, Safety and Environment through personal behaviors and conversations.
  • Always establish and promote a respectful and healthy work environment.
  • Champions health, safety, and environment, promoting health, safety and environmental standards, policies and procedures.
  • Actively participate in and help lead site safety initiatives.
  • Adhere to all company policies and procedures.
  • Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in Geology, Geological Engineering, or a related field.
  • Minimum 8 years of experience in Geology.
  • Valid driverโ€™s license and acceptable driving record.
  • Knowledge of block modeling and resource estimation.
  • Intermediate to advanced proficiency in computer-based resource modeling and specialized geological software.
  • Experience in production geology within an open-pit gold mining environment and in gold exploration required.
  • Strong geostatistical and resource evaluation skills required.
  • Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities are required.
  • Must be able to work with a high degree of autonomy, while managing competing priorities in on a strict timeline.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, and verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to influence and inspire others and effectively manage cross-functional relationships is required.
  • Ability to proficiently use Microsoft Office, Vulcan, Leapfrog, Arc GIS or other relevant software required.
  • Strong technical knowledge in a wide range of geology, engineering, and geotechnical concepts and principles
  • Ability to effectively cross collaborate with other site departments (safety, environmental, operations, etc.) as required for projects and day to day duties to maintain transparency and open lines of communication.
  • Excellent safety record required.
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds required.
  • Regularly walk on extremely uneven, sloped, rock strewn, loosely filled, piled, rutted, wet, slick, icy, and/or obstructed ground to perform duties.
  • Regularly reach, grasp, lift, and/or carry tools, components, parts, and/or machines used in sample extraction with weights up to 100 pounds, heights up to waist high, and distances up to 100 feet.
  • Ability to perform essential functions of the position required.
This position will be based at the Florida Canyon mine site near Winnemucca, Nevada.

Florida Canyon Mining, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, values diversity in its workforce, and encourages applications from qualified candidates. Wherever possible, accommodations are made for qualified applicants with self-declared disabilities.

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