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Senior Geologist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

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.

Tetra Tech

Senior Engineering Geologist

Diamond Bar, CA

$130K - $170K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

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 JobsGeologist 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 Jul 20, 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 does a senior geologist do?

A senior geologist studies Earth's materials, processes, and history to assess natural resources, environmental conditions, and geological hazards. They often lead field investigations, analyze data using specialized software, and prepare reports to support exploration, development, or environmental management projects.

Is there a high demand for geologists?

The demand for senior geologists remains steady due to ongoing needs in natural resource exploration, environmental assessment, and hazard analysis. Employment opportunities are often influenced by industry activity, technological advancements, and environmental regulations, with skills in GIS and fieldwork being highly valued.

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.

Which is the highest paid geologist?

Senior geologists with extensive experience, specialized skills, and work in high-demand industries such as oil and gas or mineral exploration tend to earn the highest salaries. In some cases, geologists with advanced degrees and professional certifications can reach top-tier compensation, often exceeding $100,000 annually. Salary varies based on location, industry, and level of expertise.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 29% Internship, 60% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,956 per year, or $57.2 per hour.
Mid-Senior Geologist

Mid-Senior Geologist

TRS Staffing Solutions

Irvine, CA • On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

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. The ideal candidate will possess 5 to 10 years of relevant experience and hold professional registration in California as a Geologist (PG) or Certified Engineering Geologist (CEG) or Hydrogeologist (CHG). This individual will manage a diverse range of environmental projects, spanning from small to regional in size. This position is based out of Irvine, California.

Job Duties:

  • Managing small to regional multi-disciplined projects
  • Developing and implementing technical approaches for completing site characterization activities
  • Preparing written proposals, managing project budgets, and communicating with project managers
  • Providing technical training and support to associate-level staff to ensure field tasks are completed with precision and consistency
  • Disposition of non-conforming products as per engineering training matrix.

Qualifications:

  • 5 to 10 years of related work experience
  • Master's degree or higher in Geology, Geologic Engineering, or similar (preferred)
  • Professional registration in California as a Geologist (PG) or Certified Engineering Geologist (CEG) or Hydrogeologist (CHG)
  • Experience with completing fieldwork and managing projects under the direction of local or state regulators
  • Familiarity with regulators including but not limited to waste characterization/disposal, DWR CA Well Standards, RCRA, CERCLA (is a plus)
  • Experience overseeing complex environmental drilling programs and sampling environmental media during preliminary investigations and subsequent investigations necessary for lateral and/or vertical delineation
  • Extensive field experience with overseeing the installation of large diameter water supply wells, injection wells, extraction wells, and performing and managing aquifer step drawdown and constant rate aquifer tests following well installation
  • Hands-on experience with using a variety of discrete-depth sampling tooling during drilling (i.e., Hydropunch, SimulProbe, installation of temporary wells)
  • Experience with many of the following drilling methods: roto-sonic, direct mud rotary, flooded reverse, ARCH, hollow stem auger, and direct push
  • Evaluating downhole geophysical logs in conjunction with borehole logs, driller logs/observations, and sieve results, to develop and/or collaborate with teams of geologists or regulators in conjunction with well design
  • Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment both in the field and in the office
  • Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • 40-hour OSHA HAZWOPER certification
  • Valid driver's license and clean driving record
  • Ability to travel and willing to perform fieldwork

To be Considered Candidates: Must be authorized to work in the USA without sponsorship***

Employment Type: Direct Hire

Location of Position: Irvine, CA

Location Type: On-site

TRS Staffing Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recognizes the value of a diverse workforce. Employment decisions are based on job related criteria and not on the basis of any unlawful criteria. We ensure equal access to employment opportunities, services, and programs.

*Must have legal right to work in the United States. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.