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Senior Geologist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Responsibilities ECS Limited is seeking an experienced Geotechnical Senior Project Engineer to ... MS in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, Geology, or similar. The expected pay range for ...

Responsibilities ECS Limited is seeking an experienced Geotechnical Senior Project Engineer to ... MS in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, Geology, or similar. The expected pay range for ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Geologist information

See Virginia salary details

$13.4K

$113K

$168K

How much do senior geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior geologist in Virginia is $113,044.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,700.00 and $135,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

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.

Is a career in senior geologist worth it?

A career as a senior geologist offers opportunities in resource exploration, environmental assessment, and consulting, often requiring strong analytical skills and knowledge of geological tools. It can be financially rewarding and provide job stability, especially with relevant experience and certifications such as a Professional Geologist license.

Is there a high demand for senior geologists?

The demand for senior geologists remains strong due to ongoing needs in natural resource exploration, environmental assessment, and infrastructure projects. Employment opportunities are often influenced by industry activity, commodity prices, and environmental regulations, with experienced geologists valued for their expertise and leadership in fieldwork and data analysis.

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 Senior Geologist jobs in Virginia?

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Senior Geologist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Senior Geologist job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Senior Geologist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,044 per year, or $54.3 per hour.

Environment Geologist - 2 years min. experience

AECOM

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


AECOM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 80 rated construction


Job description

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

AECOM is actively seeking an experienced geologist for employment in the Washington, D.C region to provide technical and management support for a variety of environmental projects (i.e., Remedial Investigations and Site Assessments) primarily within the Federal sector. Under the direction of Project Managers and senior technical staff, the candidate will perform the following as part of a multi-disciplinary project team:

Some of the responsibilities they may perform are:   

  • Manage tasks as part of larger projects.
  • Assist in planning and leading complex field investigation programs involving drilling, borehole logging, well installation, groundwater monitoring, and subsequent remedial activities.
  • Provide technical direction and safety oversight to a team of multi-disciplinary AECOM scientists on large field investigations.
  • Provide technical direction and safety oversight of drilling subcontractors while logging soil/rock cores and directing monitoring well construction.
  • Apply standard field practices and techniques using basic field equipment to collect samples of soil, groundwater, surface water, sediment; prepare samples for shipping, and complete chain-of-custody or similar paperwork.
  • Write technical planning documents and reports with the support of more junior staff.
  • Assist project manager with proposal writing and cost estimating.
  • Work with procurement staff to hire subcontractors and manage implementation of their services.
  • Assist with preparing permits and access agreements with public agencies and other stakeholders.
  • Interact with federal and private clients. Develop client relationships through technical work. Attend site visits and planning meetings.
  • Assist with planning and implementation of remedial actions.

The ideal candidate comes with similar industry experience that has given them the ability to work independently, with discipline, to steer critical tasks towards the overall project objectives. The candidate must be equally able to work in a collaborative team-environment, effectively lead junior staff and foster team building through respect, inclusion, and mentorship. They will display a high level of organization and communication, and demonstrate a strong desire to learn from more senior staff. Flexibility to work on a wide variety of projects, communicate clearly, a positive attitude, and commitment to workplace health and safety are imperative. For the right candidate, this position holds significant growth potential into leadership and management positions.

    Qualifications

    Minimum Requirements

    • Bachelor’s degree in Geology or related science
    • 2+ years of post-graduation relevant experience in environmental consulting (i.e., Remedial Investigations and Site Assessments) for Federal, State, or private clients. e or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education.
    • Must have a valid US driver’s license. 
    • Due to the nature of the work, US citizenship is required.  Sponsorship will not be available.  
    • Qualified candidates must be comfortable with nationwide travel. Field work will be required, including oversight of AECOM staff and subcontractors.

    Preferred Qualifications

    • More than 4 years experience with Remedial/Site investigation, remediation planning, or design.
    • Experience working on projects focusing on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
    • Desire and ability to travel periodically for week(s)-long regional project assignments and occasional meetings.
    • Anticipated division of job-related tasks is about a 50/50 percent split between field and office work.
    • Safety-focused individual with experience in implementation of safety plans; leading safety kick-off calls, daily “tailgate” safety briefings, and comfortable performing subcontractor safety oversight.
    • Ability to work outside year-round completing field investigations while performing physically demanding work in various climates across the US.
    • Excellent skills in written and spoken communication (including polished client presentation skills), organization, time management, and an individual who thrives in a team-oriented environment.
    • Experience using Microsoft Office (Excel, Access, Word, PowerPoint) and preparing technical reports.
    • Field experience overseeing industry-standard drilling and monitoring well installation methods. Experience logging soils using the USCS.
    • Experience with CERCLA RI/FS, RCRA, and RD/RA projects with commercial or DoD clients.
    • Experience performing environmental investigations at DoD facilities.
    • Certificates – OSHA 40hr HAZWOPER Training and current refresher certificates.

    Additional Information

    At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

    About AECOM 

    AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

    AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

    What makes AECOM a great place to work 

    You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

    As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. 


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