Structural Geologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

NV5 is a provider of engineering and consulting services to public and private sector clients, delivering solutions through six business verticals: Testing, Inspection & Consulting; Infrastructure; Utility Services; Environmental Health Sciences; Buildings & Program Management; and Geospatial Technology. With offices nationwide and abroad, NV5 helps clients plan, design, build, test, certify, and operate projects that improve the communities where we live and work.

As engineers, architects, construction/program managers, environmental professionals and beyond, we play a significant role in shaping our communities through the services we provide. We are looking for passionate, driven individuals to join our team focused on Delivering Solutions and Improving Lives.

We are seeking a Senior Geologist with 7–10 years of experience in engineering geology and geotechnical consulting to support a diverse portfolio of municipal infrastructure and DSA-regulated projects across Ventura County and surrounding regions.

This role requires strong technical expertise in site characterization, geologic hazard evaluation, and geotechnical collaboration, along with experience navigating California regulatory frameworks, including DSA requirements.

• Perform and lead engineering geology and geotechnical investigations
• Conduct detailed geologic mapping, subsurface interpretation, and hazard assessments
  • Evaluate:
    • Seismic hazards (fault rupture, ground shaking)
    • Liquefaction potential
    • Slope stability and landslide risk
  • Prepare technical deliverables including:
    • Geotechnical & Engineering Geology Reports
    • Fault investigation reports (Alquist-Priolo compliance)
    • Grading and foundation recommendations
  • Develop subsurface models using borings, CPT data, and lab results
  • Provide geologic input for:
    • Foundation design
    • Retaining structures
    • Earthwork and grading plans
• Plan and oversee field exploration programs (drilling, logging, sampling)
• Perform geologic logging and classification per ASTM/USCS standards
• Coordinate with drillers, lab testing facilities, and survey teams
• Monitor construction activities including:
  o Excavation observations
  o Subgrade evaluations
  o Geologic hazard mitigation implementation
• Prepare and support DSA submittals and responses to plan check comments
• Interface with:
  o Public agencies (cities, counties)
  o School districts (K-12 / community college DSA projects)
  o Design teams and structural engineers
• Ensure compliance with:
  o California Building Code (CBC)
  o Local grading ordinances
  o State geologic hazard regulations
• Manage scope, schedule, and budget for small-to-mid-sized projects
• Mentor junior geologists and review technical work
• Support proposal development and client relationship management

• B.S. in Geology, Engineering Geology, or related discipline (M.S. strongly preferred)
• Certified Engineering Geologist (CEG in California)
• 7–10 years of experience in geotechnical/engineering geology consulting
• Demonstrated experience with:
• Municipal/public works projects
• DSA (Division of the State Architect) projects in California
• Strong understanding of:
• Southern California geology
• Seismic hazards and regulatory zones (e.g., Alquist-Priolo, Seismic Hazards Mapping Act)
• Proficiency in:
• Geologic logging and subsurface interpretation
• Technical report writing and documentation

The pay range for this California position is $130,000- $160,000 per year; however, base pay offered may be higher or lower depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience of the candidate. Restricted stock units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. This information is provided per California Senate Bill 1162. Base pay information is based on market location. Applicants should apply via the NV5 careers site.

NV5 offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, life insurance, PTO, 401(k) and professional development/advancement opportunities.

NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. NV5 complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

#INDHP

#LI-KS1