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Staff Environmental Geologist Jobs in Salinas, CA

The Geologist will serve Ahtna's environmental clients' needs utilizing relevant experience and ... Execute assigned tasks in accordance with work plans and direction from higher-level staff

Terracon Consultants is seeking to hire a Seasonal Staff Biologist to report to our Monterey, CA ... include environmental architects, archaeologists, biologists, engineers, geologists, historians ...

Staff Environmental Geologist information

See Salinas, CA salary details

$43K

$79.2K

$129.5K

How much do staff environmental geologist jobs pay per year?

As of May 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for staff environmental geologist in Salinas, CA is $79,236.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,900.00 and $96,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Staff Environmental Geologist, you need a solid background in geology, environmental science, or a related field, typically with a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with field sampling equipment, GIS software, and regulatory reporting systems, as well as certifications like OSHA HAZWOPER, are often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective written and verbal communication distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure accurate environmental assessments, regulatory compliance, and effective collaboration on environmental projects.

How does a Staff Environmental Geologist typically collaborate with project managers and field technicians during site investigations?

As a Staff Environmental Geologist, you will often work closely with project managers to plan and coordinate site assessments, ensuring that all investigative activities align with project goals and regulatory requirements. Collaboration with field technicians is key, as you'll be responsible for guiding field data collection, reviewing their findings, and ensuring the accuracy of soil, water, and air sampling procedures. Clear communication and teamwork are essential, as your geologic expertise helps interpret field data and inform the overall environmental remediation strategy.

What are staff environmental geologists?

Staff environmental geologists are entry- to mid-level professionals who study the earth’s processes and materials to assess and resolve environmental issues. Their work often involves collecting soil, water, and air samples, conducting field investigations, analyzing data, and preparing reports related to environmental compliance, contamination, and remediation projects. They typically work for consulting firms, government agencies, or private companies to help ensure projects meet environmental regulations and protect public health and ecosystems.

What is the difference between Staff Environmental Geologist vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectStaff Environmental GeologistEnvironmental Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, Environmental Science, or related field; often requires state licensure for certain rolesBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related field; certifications like LEED or GIS may be preferred
Work EnvironmentFieldwork at sites, environmental consulting firms, government agenciesLaboratory, fieldwork, research institutions, government agencies
Industry UsageCommonly employed in environmental consulting, remediation projects, and regulatory complianceUsed across research, policy, and environmental management sectors

The Staff Environmental Geologist primarily focuses on geological assessments, site investigations, and remediation projects, often requiring geological expertise and licensure. In contrast, Environmental Scientists tend to have a broader focus on ecological and environmental data analysis, research, and policy. Both roles work in similar environments but differ in technical focus and credentials.

What are popular job titles related to Staff Environmental Geologist jobs in Salinas, CA? For Staff Environmental Geologist jobs in Salinas, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Staff Environmental Geologist jobs in Salinas, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Staff Environmental Geologist jobs in Salinas, CA are:
What cities near Salinas, CA are hiring for Staff Environmental Geologist jobs? Cities near Salinas, CA with the most Staff Environmental Geologist job openings:
Infographic showing various Staff Environmental Geologist job openings in Salinas, CA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $79,236 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

Geologist I/II/III/Sr - AGL

Ahtna Global LLC

Monterey, CA • Hybrid

$144.23K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Summary:

The Geologist works with project and program managers to prepare plans and reports, conduct field sampling for site investigations, long-term monitoring, and remediation projects, and perform other tasks as required. The Geologist will serve Ahtna's environmental clients' needs utilizing relevant experience and skills to provide professional geologic services in planning, evaluating, and performing the project scope of work. This position is mainly responsible for task management and execution of projects ranging from site investigations and monitoring to remedial activities and includes soil, water, and waste sampling.

This position is for a Professional Geologist with the experience and capability to manage field projects and staff with minimal oversight. This is a great position for a motivated working Project Manager who is looking for professional growth and leadership opportunities.

The salary range for this position is $ 64,938-$144,228/year, please note this is a tiered position.

This position comes with a competitive and comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, a 401(k) plan with a 3% match, paid time off (PTO), and company-paid holidays.

This position will be posted for 5 days or until filled.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: (including but not limited to)

  • Performance, supervision, and coordination of field activities
  • Lead a diverse team of professionals on complicated environmental sites in challenging conditions to create a scientific understanding of the site.
  • Commitment to safety, including following established Health and Safety protocols
  • Plan and oversee fieldwork, including sampling, drilling, well installation, subcontractor coordination, analytical laboratory management, soil vapor assessment, and construction oversight
  • Lithological logging and interpretation of subsurface conditions
  • Collect and interpret field data from various media and sample methods
  • Review and interpret analytical results; provide field consultations as required
  • Subcontractor and client coordination of field activities
  • Review and develop project documents and reports, proposals, investigation documents, decision documents, and implementation plans
  • Communicate with subcontractors, regulatory agents, tenants, and clients during field activities
  • Build strong collaborative relationships with Ahtna employees, clients, and subcontractors
  • Fieldwork will include travel in both aircraft and motor vehicles for upwards of 50% of the time dependent upon project demands
  • Strong writing skills
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Level Specific Responsibilities: (may include but are not limited to)

Level - I

  • Project assistance to program and project managers; scope, schedule, and budget on assigned tasks
  • Execute assigned tasks in accordance with work plans and direction from higher-level staff
  • Acquire and/or develop an area of technical expertise
  • Engage with program and project managers for task assignments
  • 50% - 60% of the time may be spent conducting fieldwork, potentially in remote locations

Level - II

  • Provide client support to program and project managers; scope, schedule, and budget on projects
  • Maintain 1-2 areas of technical expertise
  • Lead teams performing project tasks, both in the office and field locations
  • Technical project execution and document preparation, peer review project documents
  • Assist with task order and project proposals
  • Technical mentoring
  • 30% - 50% of the time may be spent conducting fieldwork, potentially in remote locations

Level - III

  • Provide client support to program and project managers; scope, schedule, and budget on projects
  • Maintain 2 areas of technical expertise
  • Lead teams performing project tasks, both in the office and field locations
  • Lead technical project execution and document preparation, peer review project documents
  • Assist with task order and project proposals
  • Lead and mentor team members
  • Manage projects involving site characterization, long-term monitoring, and similar tasks
  • 20% - 50% of the time may be spent conducting fieldwork, potentially in remote locations

Level - Senior

  • Provide client assistance to program and project managers; scope, schedule, and budget on projects
  • Maintain 2-3 areas of technical expertise
  • Lead technical project execution and document preparation, senior review project documents
  • Prepare task order and project proposals
  • Project staffing and technical mentoring
  • Manage complex projects involving site characterization, long-term monitoring, and similar tasks
  • 10% - 40% of the time may be spent conducting fieldwork, potentially in remote locations

Minimum Qualifications:

All levels:

  • Bachelor’s Degree (BS) in Geology or geological sciences
  • Ability to work on DoD Installations
  • Some positions may require US Citizenship
  • Current 40-Hour HAZWOPER
  • Valid Driver’s License with clean driving record, able to drive a company vehicle
  • Proficient computer skills using Microsoft Office Suite, project tracking software (MS Project), GIS, graphics software (Illustrator or similar), MS Access, and PowerPoint
  • Competent in explaining technical aspects of fieldwork to internal and external clients verbally and in writing
  • Must be a US Citizen
  • Able to obtain US Government Security Clearance.

Level - I

  • Zero (0) to Three (3) years of relevant working experience, specialized training and/or advanced degree such as MS may be substituted for work experience

Level - II

  • Three (3) to Five (5) years of relevant working experience, specialized training and/or advanced degree such as MS may be substituted for work experience

Level - III

  • Five (5) to Seven (7) years of relevant working experience, specialized training and/or advanced degree such as MS may be substituted for work experience
  • Registered Professional Geologist or ability to obtain registration in one year

Level - Senior

  • Eight (8) or more years of relevant working experience, specialized training and/or advanced degree such as MS may be substituted for work experience
  • Registered Professional Geologist

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Professional Geologist Registration
  • Certified Environmental Manager, if located in Nevada
  • 8 Hour HAZWOPER Refresher
  • CPR/1st Aid Certified
  • Experience working on projects with Federal clients
  • DoD Experience

Core Competencies:

  • Technical Writing – Ability to prepare technical communications, plans, and reports with minimal editing and corrections.
  • Self-Motivated - Ability to be internally inspired to perform a task to the best of one’s ability using his or her own drive or initiative.
  • Communication - Ability to communicate effectively with others using the spoken word. Ability to communicate in writing clearly and concisely.
  • Time Management - Ability to utilize the available time to organize and complete work within given deadlines.
  • Goal Oriented - Ability to focus on a goal and obtain a pre-determined result.
  • Accuracy - Ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly.
  • Confidentiality - Ability to preserve confidential information.

Shareholder Preference:

  • Pursuant to PL 93-638, as amended, preference will be given to qualified Ahtna Native Corporation Shareholders, Descendants, and Spouses in all phases of employment.

Working Environment:

  • May be indoors or outdoors, subject to confined spaces, changes in temperature, weather conditions, and noise levels.

Physical Demands (including but not limited to):

  • Frequent lifting, sitting, standing, stooping for prolonged periods of time, using hands/fingers requiring dexterity, should have good hand-eye coordination and motion control in coordination with handling tools, equipment, and other related components
  • Reaching with hands and arms for items above and below sight level, talking, hearing, and seeing (up close, at a distance, along the periphery, with depth, color perception, and the ability to adjust focus); walking from place to place within the project location with occasional use of stairs and no elevator available; bending, pushing, pulling, and standing for up to 10 hours.
  • Frequent lifting of up to 50 pounds such as small electrical components, equipment, and other materials. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, hours based on business/operational needs