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Structural Geologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Provide structural interpretations to predict geological conditions ahead of active mining faces * Map completed stopes to identify slabs, benches, and additional mining opportunities * Make muck ...

Principal Geologist

Seattle, WA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Background in structural geology, tectonics, or volcanology Benefits & Perks * Global Fieldwork : Travel to fascinating deployment sites along oceanic ridges in locations like the Pacific Northwest ...

Strong foundation in structural geology, sedimentology, stratigraphy, or geophysics * Exposure to Python tools and data mining * Strong interpersonal skills * Comfortable working team environment.

Strong foundation in structural geology, sedimentology, stratigraphy, or geophysics * Exposure to Python tools and data mining * Strong interpersonal skills * Comfortable working team environment.

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Structural Geologist information

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$36K

$77K

$124.5K

How much do structural geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural geologist in the United States is $77,030.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $93,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying geologist job?

The highest paying geologist roles are often in the oil and gas industry, such as petroleum geologists, who can earn six-figure salaries, especially with extensive experience and advanced certifications. Other high-paying positions include exploration managers and senior geoscientists working in mineral exploration or consulting firms, where specialized skills and leadership responsibilities command higher compensation.

What does a structural geologist do?

A structural geologist studies the Earth's crust to understand the formation and deformation of rocks and geological structures such as faults, folds, and fractures. They analyze geological data using tools like mapping, field surveys, and software to interpret tectonic processes and assess geological hazards. This work often involves fieldwork, data analysis, and collaboration with engineers and other geoscientists.

What is the difference between Structural Geologist vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectStructural GeologistGeotechnical Engineer
Required credentialsGeology degree, often with specialization in structural geologyGeotechnical engineering degree, often with civil engineering background
Work environmentFieldwork in geological formations, mapping, and analysis of rock structuresSite investigations, soil testing, and foundation design
Industry usageMining, oil & gas, natural resource explorationConstruction, infrastructure, and civil engineering projects

While both roles involve understanding Earth's materials, Structural Geologists focus on analyzing rock formations and faults, primarily in natural settings. Geotechnical Engineers apply soil and rock mechanics to design foundations and support structures. Their work environments and industry applications differ, but both require a strong background in geology and earth sciences.

What type of geologist gets paid the most?

Among geologists, petroleum geologists typically earn the highest salaries due to their work in the oil and gas industry, which offers higher compensation compared to other specialties like environmental or academic geology. Experience, certifications, and working in resource-rich regions can also significantly impact earnings for structural geologists and other geoscientists.

What are some common challenges faced by structural geologists in the field, and how can they be addressed?

Structural geologists often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex geological formations in remote or rugged terrains and dealing with incomplete or ambiguous data. Fieldwork can also be physically demanding and requires adaptability to changing weather and safety conditions. To address these challenges, geologists use advanced mapping software and remote sensing technologies, collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, and continuously update their field skills through professional training and workshops.

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

To thrive as a Structural Geologist, you need a solid background in geology, structural analysis, and mapping, usually supported by a relevant degree such as geology or earth sciences. Proficiency with GIS software, 3D modeling tools, and structural interpretation systems like Petrel or Move is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in interpreting data and conveying complex geological concepts. These skills are crucial for accurately assessing geological formations, guiding exploration or engineering projects, and ensuring safety and efficiency in resource development.

How much do structural geologists make?

Structural geologists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior professionals or those working in specialized industries may earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000. The role often requires strong analytical skills and knowledge of geological modeling tools.
More about Structural Geologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Structural Geologist jobs? Cities with the most Structural Geologist job openings:
What states have the most Structural Geologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Structural Geologist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Structural Geologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 6% Internship, 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,030 per year, or $37 per hour.
Barrick - Regional/Principal Structural Geologist

Barrick - Regional/Principal Structural Geologist

Barrick Gold Corporation

Elko, NV

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Barrick Gold rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 32 rated mining


Job description

Position Description:

Would you like to have a career with a collaborative, diverse, and dynamic mining company? We have an exciting opportunity for you!

Barrick is seeking an engaged, Principal/Regional Structural Geologist to provide expert structural geology support, guidance, and technical leadership to the North America Exploration teams through both field-based and desktop work. This includes the delivery of high-quality geological mapping, cross-section and plan views at multiple scales, as well as integrated interpretation and modelling of multidisciplinary datasets (from 2D to 4D).

The Principal/Regional Structural Geologist works closely with district teams and the regional technical group, supporting programs from regional-scale generative exploration through to advanced greenfield and brownfield targets. The role is focused on accelerating understanding of structural controls on mineralization, regional geological frameworks, and discovery potential for gold and/or copper systems that materially contribute to company growth. 

This position can be based out of Elko, NV; Reno, NV; Salt Lake Cit, UT;  or Denver, CO. 

At Barrick, our vision is to be the world's most valued gold mining business by finding, developing, and operating the best assets with the best people. We are committed to a safe work environment, sending every person home safe and healthy every day and leaving a sustainable legacy on our host communities.

All work is undertaken with a strong emphasis on field validation, technical rigor, safety, efficiency, and alignment with Barrick Gold Corporation values.

Responsibilities:

  • Perform structural mapping across multiple scales (regional to local), including oriented core logging, and interpret these datasets to define structural processes controlling fluid pathways, mineralization, alteration, and key geological vectors.
  • Ensure exploration teams collect high-quality structural data and have access to critical structural datasets required to define areas of interest and optimize exploration program design and execution.
  • Ensure that external and legacy datasets are rigorously validated, quality-controlled, and integrated in accordance with regional and corporate standards prior to interpretation.
  • Conduct in-depth analysis and advanced structural modelling of multidisciplinary datasets to support advanced exploration and brownfield environments.
  • Lead and contribute to structural interpretation of geophysical and multi-layer datasets, integrating geological, geochemical, and geophysical information into 2D-4D geological models.
  • Provide technical guidance and hands-on support to exploration projects through regular site visits, close interaction with the exploration team, facilitating knowledge transfer and ensuring consistent application of standards.
  • Actively seek, evaluate, and implement new methodologies, tools, and technologies in structural geology, drawing on both internal initiatives and external research to continuously improve exploration effectiveness.
  • Analyze and integrate downhole-oriented core data (e.g. acoustic and optical televiewer) to constrain structural geometry, kinematics, and targeting vectors.
  • Ensure all activities are conducted in accordance with safety, health, environmental, and quality policies and procedures, with clear recognition and management of risks inherent to exploration and field operations, in alignment with Barrick values
  • Other duties as required 

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Science in Geology or equivalent; a postgraduate qualification or specialization in Applied Structural Geology is strongly preferred
  • Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in applied structural geology within mineral exploration, with demonstrated contribution to gold and/or copper systems across greenfield and brownfield settings preferred
  • Strong working knowledge of Carlin-type, epithermal, porphyry, orogenic, and intrusion-related mineral systems, with the ability to apply structural concepts across multiple deposit styles preferred
  • Deep understanding of regional to local geological frameworks in North America is an advantage, including familiarity with major tectonic provinces and mineral belts preferred
  • Demonstrated experience in the validation, integration, interpretation, and modelling of large, multi-disciplinary geological datasets, ensuring data quality and geological coherence preferred
  • Proven capability in the use of structural geology analysis tools and software, including stereonet analysis, kinematic analysis, and fault/strain interpretation preferred
  • Advanced experience with 3D geological modelling and GIS platforms (e.g. Leapfrog and ArcPro), applied to exploration targeting and model development preferred
  • Advanced written and spoken English, with the ability to communicate complex geological concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences preferred
  • Ability to rapidly convert expert-level geologic observations and interpretations into high-quality, 
  • Demonstrated ability and willingness to conduct field work across a wide range of terrains and operating environments, with a strong commitment to safety and field-based validation preferred

What Can Offer You  

  • A comprehensive compensation package including a competitive medical, dental, and vision plan with national provider networks, a 401k retirement plan with employer contribution AND employer match, paid time off, company-sponsored medical clinics, company match share purchase program, and much more!
  • Work in a dynamic, collaborative, progressive, and high-performing team.
  • Endless opportunities to grow and learn with industry colleagues.
  • Access to a variety of career opportunities across the organization.
  • Barrick is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Thank you for your application, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

  • #LI-JB1

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