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Senior Geologist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Terraphase Engineering Inc

Senior Geologist

Irvine, CA

$95K - $118K/yr

The Senior Geologist will take a lead role in the planning, execution, and management of large-scale soil and groundwater investigation and remediation projects. The ideal candidate will bring a ...

TRS Staffing Solutions

Mid-Senior Geologist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Mid-Senior Geologist (PG/ CEG/ CHG) We currently seek a Mid to Senior Level Geologist/Hydrogeologist on a direct hire basis within our client's environmental engineering and science consulting firm.

W3Global Inc.

Licensed Geologist

Santa Ana, CA

$100K - $125K/yr

Senior Geologist / Environmental Engineer or Scientist We are seeking an accomplished and licensed Senior Geologist or Environmental Engineer/Scientist to join our team in a leadership capacity. This ...

GeoSoils Inc

Project Geologist

Lake Elsinore, CA · On-site

The organization is dedicated to providing comprehensive geological and geotechnical services to ... Prepare geotechnical and geologic reports under senior staff supervision * Review lab and field ...

WSP

Vice President, Environmental Geologist

Irvine, CA · On-site

Successfully interact with Local Business Leader, Sector Lead, other Principal and Senior-level ... Who You Are Required Qualifications * BS in Geology, Earth Sciences or related science field * 15 ...

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All JobsSenior Geologist JobsSenior Geologist Jobs in Riverside, CA

Senior Geologist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14.1K

$119K

$176.8K

How much do senior geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior geologist in Riverside, CA is $118,956.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,500.00 and $142,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Geologist, and why are they important?

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.

How much do senior geologists get paid?

Senior geologists typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry sector. They often have specialized skills in geological analysis, report writing, and use of tools like GIS software, which can influence salary levels.

What is the highest salary for a geologist?

Senior geologists can earn salaries up to $130,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or work in high-demand industries like oil and gas or mineral exploration. Salary levels vary based on location, employer, and specialization, with top earners often holding managerial or specialized roles.

What does a senior geologist do?

A senior geologist analyzes geological data to assess mineral, oil, or groundwater resources, often leading exploration and research projects. They interpret field and lab data, create reports, and may supervise junior staff while using tools like GIS and geological modeling software.

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 highest paying geologist job?

Senior geologists, especially those working in the oil and gas industry or in executive roles such as exploration managers, tend to have the highest salaries among geologists. Advanced certifications, extensive experience, and expertise in specialized areas like petroleum geology or mineral exploration can significantly increase earning potential.

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.

More about Senior Geologist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Geologist jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Geologist jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Geologist jobs in Riverside, CA? For Senior Geologist jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Geologist jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Geologist jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Senior Geologist jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Senior Geologist job openings:
Senior Geologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Geologist job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Full Time, 75% Part Time, 6% Temporary, 16% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,956 per year, or $57.2 per hour.
Senior Geologist

Senior Geologist

Terraphase Engineering Inc

Irvine, CA

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Description

We are currently seeking a Senior Geologist to join our team in Irvine, CA. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to high-impact environmental remediation projects, while collaborating with an experienced technical team across disciplines. The Senior Geologist will take a lead role in the planning, execution, and management of large-scale soil and groundwater investigation and remediation projects. The ideal candidate will bring a strong technical background in environmental site assessment, remedial technology implementation, and regulatory compliance, coupled with the ability to interface confidently with regulators, clients, and multidisciplinary teams.


The Role
  • Plan and conduct Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs), remedial investigations, and site characterizations for complex contaminated properties.
  • Design and oversee the implementation of in-situ and ex-situ remediation systems, including soil vapor extraction, bioremediation, chemical oxidation, and excavation.
  • Develop and refine Conceptual Site Models (CSMs) to support data interpretation, risk assessment, and remedial strategy development.
  • Lead the preparation of work plans, sampling and analysis plans (SAPs), health and safety plans (HASPs), and other regulatory submittals.
  • Coordinate and manage field programs including drilling, well installation, soil/groundwater sampling, and contractor oversight.
  • Serve as a technical liaison with regulatory agencies (e.g., EPA, DTSC, RWQCB) and provide strategic guidance to clients on regulatory pathways and risk-based decision-making.
  • Prepare high-quality technical reports, including investigation reports, feasibility studies, and remedial action plans, in compliance with federal and state regulatory standards.
  • Mentor junior staff, review deliverables, and contribute to project planning, budgeting, and scheduling.

Who you are

  • 5-10 years of progressive experience in environmental consulting, applied geology, or remediation project management.
  • Professional Geologist (PG) license in California strongly preferred.
  • Demonstrated experience with CERCLA (Superfund), RCRA, NPL sites, and California-specific regulatory frameworks.
  • Deep understanding of fate and transport of contaminants, environmental forensics, and hydrogeologic evaluations.
  • Proven ability to manage field teams, subcontractors, and technical scopes independently with limited supervision.
  • Excellent technical writing, data analysis, and communication skills, including client and regulatory interaction.
  • Willingness to travel locally for fieldwork and occasional project meetings as needed.

Apply