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Senior Operations Geologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fugro

Senior Geologist

Walnut Creek, CA · Hybrid

$123K/yr

Senior Geologist Fugro USA Land, Inc., seeks Senior Geologist. Worksite: 201 N Civic Drive #360 ... operations including core logging and sample preparation; utilize geologic software to interpret ...

Fugro

Senior Geologist

Walnut Creek, CA · Hybrid

$123K/yr

Senior Geologist Fugro USA Land, Inc., seeks Senior Geologist. Worksite: 201 N Civic Drive #360 ... operations including core logging and sample preparation; utilize geologic software to interpret ...

Earthmech

Senior Geologist

Fountain Valley, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

EMI is seeking a Senior Geologist to support geologic and geotechnical investigations for ... Oversee field operations for adherence to work plans, safety protocols, and applicable regulatory ...

Fugro-Geoteam AS

Senior Geologist

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$110.92 - $135.56/hr

Fugro USA Land, Inc., seeks Senior Geologist. Worksite: 201 N Civic Drive #360, Walnut Creek, CA ... operations including core logging and sample preparation; utilize geologic software to interpret ...

Fugro

Senior Geologist

Walnut Creek, CA · Hybrid

$123K/yr

Fugro USA Land, Inc., seeks Senior Geologist. Worksite: 201 N Civic Drive #360, Walnut Creek, CA ... operations including core logging and sample preparation; utilize geologic software to interpret ...

Fugro

Senior Geologist

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$123K/yr

Fugro USA Land, Inc., seeks Senior Geologist. Worksite: 201 N Civic Drive #360, Walnut Creek, CA ... operations including core logging and sample preparation; utilize geologic software to interpret ...

NV5

Project Geologist/Projec

Nevada City, CA · On-site

Project Geologist / Project Engineer - Geotechnical & Laboratory Services We are seeking a Project ... and operational oversight required from senior staff. The position offers an opportunity for ...

NV5

Project Geologist/Projec

Nevada City, CA

Project Geologist / Project Engineer - Geotechnical & Laboratory Services We are seeking a Project ... and operational oversight required from senior staff. The position offers an opportunity for ...

NV5

Project Geologist/Projec

Nevada City, CA · On-site

Project Geologist / Project Engineer - Geotechnical & Laboratory Services We are seeking a Project ... and operational oversight required from senior staff. The position offers an opportunity for ...

SpaceX

Sr. Professional Geologist

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

... on Mars. SR. PROFESSIONAL GEOLOGIST SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where ... maintain site operational compliance plans including the Site-Wide Soil Management Plan (SMP)

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All JobsOperations Geologist JobsSenior Operations Geologist JobsSenior Operations Geologist Jobs in California

Senior Operations Geologist information

See California salary details

$13.3K

$112.5K

$167.3K

How much do senior operations geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior operations geologist in California is $112,529.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,300.00 and $135,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior operations geologist do?

A Senior Operations Geologist oversees and coordinates geological operations during drilling projects, ensuring that drilling activities are executed safely and efficiently. They interpret subsurface data, advise on drilling locations, and provide real-time geological support to optimize resource extraction. Their role often involves collaborating with drilling engineers, geophysicists, and other team members to minimize drilling risks and maximize hydrocarbon recovery. Additionally, they may supervise junior geologists and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.

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

To thrive as a Senior Operations Geologist, you need a solid background in geology, drilling operations, and reservoir evaluation, usually backed by a relevant degree and significant field experience. Familiarity with geological modeling software, real-time data interpretation tools, and industry-standard applications like Petrel or Landmark is essential. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and leadership skills set candidates apart in managing teams and collaborating with multidisciplinary stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for making informed drilling decisions, optimizing resource extraction, and ensuring safety and efficiency in complex operational environments.

How does a senior operations geologist typically collaborate with drilling and engineering teams during active projects?

A Senior Operations Geologist works closely with drilling engineers, mud loggers, and reservoir engineers to ensure effective well placement and optimal drilling performance. They provide real-time geological interpretations, monitor drilling progress, and make recommendations to adjust drilling parameters based on subsurface data. Regular communication and data sharing are crucial, as geologists often participate in daily operations meetings and provide input on well trajectory, formation evaluation, and safety considerations. This collaborative approach helps minimize drilling risks and maximize reservoir exposure.

What is the difference between Senior Operations Geologist vs Reservoir Geologist?

AspectSenior Operations GeologistReservoir Geologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, Geoscience, or related field; often requires industry certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, Geoscience, or related field; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data analysis, collaboration with drilling teamsSubsurface analysis, reservoir modeling, collaboration with reservoir engineers
Industry UsageOil & gas exploration, production, and operationsReservoir characterization, development planning in oil & gas

While both roles require geoscience expertise and industry certifications, Senior Operations Geologists focus on field operations and drilling support, whereas Reservoir Geologists specialize in subsurface reservoir analysis and modeling. Both positions are vital in oil & gas projects but serve different stages of exploration and development.

What cities in California are hiring for Senior Operations Geologist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Senior Operations Geologist job openings:

Senior Operations Geologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Operations Geologist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,529 per year, or $54.1 per hour.

Senior Geologist

Walnut Creek, CA • Hybrid

Fugro
Civil Engineering Construction • 10K+ employees

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

266th of 450 rated engineering

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks

Learn more about Fugroexternal

$123K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Senior Geologist

Fugro USA Land, Inc., seeks Senior Geologist. Worksite: 201 N Civic Drive #360, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 (Partial telecommuting – 2 days per week). Offered salary $123,240 per year. Must put job code on resume.

Duties and Responsibilities

Under the direction of the Principal Geologist, demonstrate proficient report/proposal writing and verbal communication skills. Work on geologic hazard assessment and site characterization for various infrastructure projects, especially fault studies, seismic hazard assessments, seismic source modeling and catalog development, field mapping, geologic interpretation of geotechnical and geospatial data, and geologic hazard assessments. Conduct fieldwork including rock, soil sampling, geologic mapping and site assessment; assist in analyzing geologic data, interpreting findings and prepare reports; support drilling operations including core logging and sample preparation; utilize geologic software to interpret and present data; ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations; collaborate with other geologists and engineers to support project developments; maintain accurate records of geologic and geotechnical observations, test results, and site conditions, assist in laboratory testing and analysis; work on desktop studies; and support proposal preparation. Mentor junior staff. Work on business/client development, with lead role on proposal presentation. Manage all aspects of multiple small to mid-size projects/year (budget, schedule, scope of work, client relations). Support technical needs of clients. Involvement and participation in the design, implementation, and supervision of field exploration programs, and detailed site characterization studies. Participate in the development of the scope, estimating costs, and procuring subcontractors. Develop and adhere to reasonable project schedules and deadlines. Research and data analysis. Perform engineering geologic analyses and develop reasonable conclusions and recommendations. Develop seismic source models and earthquake catalogs. Prepare technical reports in a timely, organized, and accurate manner. Develop positive client relationships. Maintain positive reputation in professional community. Contribute to positive corporate reputation. Help develop project opportunities. Participate in and support continuous improvement of the company's processes, including safety and quality. Perform other duties as may be assigned.

Required Education and Experience

Master's degree in Engineering Geology, or Geological Engineering.

2 years of field experience in soil and rock logging, geologic mapping, site characterization, and paleoseismological trenching for fault investigations; experience with geologic and geotechnical data interpretation, integration of downhole geophysical data, and development of geologic models to support engineering decisions; experience preparing technical reports and desktop studies, managing projects—including those in the nuclear power projects—and performing rock mass characterization; synthesize complex geological data to assess site conditions and support multidisciplinary project teams.

Special Requirement:

  • Any understanding of geohazards and their implications for project planning and development.
  • Partial telecommuting – 2 days per week
  • 25% of domestic travel.

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