1

Structural Geologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

Resource Geologist

Cedar City, UT · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Develop geological models, ore domains, ore solids, surface models, structural models, and fault solids. * Utilize Geovia Surpac, Micromine, Leapfrog, CAD , and other resource modeling tools to ...

Subsurface mapping of geologic formations showing structural setting, thickness, porosity, etc. * Geosteering of horizontal wells * Management and updating of well databases * Provide geological ...

Academic or working background in structural geology and epithermal Au-Ag systems. * Experience in geologic mapping, sampling, logging, and geologic interpretation * Familiar with database software ...

The Staff Geologist supports subsurface and asset development programs through integrated ... Develop and refine stratigraphic/structural frameworks and generate cross-sections supporting ...

Develop and refine stratigraphic/structural frameworks and generate cross-sections supporting ... Provide operations geology and geosteering interface support, coordinating with vendors and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Structural Geologist information

See salary details

$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.
Exploration Geologist Advisor - New Ventures

Exploration Geologist Advisor - New Ventures

Continental Resources

Oklahoma City, OK • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

Continental Resources is seeking an Advisor-level New Ventures Geoscientist to evaluate new ventures, develop play concepts, and support a commercially focused exploration strategy through integrated subsurface interpretation.

You will integrate regional geologic data including wellbore, 2D/3D seismic, and potential-field data, to build play evaluations and prospects that de-risk opportunities and support investment decisions. Outputs are used closely with Land and Business Development to shape entry strategy and capture opportunities. The work is fast-paced and team-based, with tight timelines and frequent decision points.

This Advisor role partners with executive leadership, asset teams, and external stakeholders, and mentoring geoscientists in fit-for-purpose workflows that connect regional context to petroleum systems and commercial outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Lead prospect generation, evaluation, and maturation for new ventures using geological, geophysical, petrophysical, and geochemical data to define play fairways, petroleum systems, and prospect risk.
  • Build basin-to-prospect interpretations and maps to constrain structure, stratigraphy, and fairway geometry.
  • Develop subsurface models and risk assessments that link tectono-stratigraphic evolution, charge/migration, reservoir/seal, and timing.
  • Working across subsurface, operations, land, and business development to deliver clear evaluations that inform entry strategy, acreage capture, and deal decisions.
  • Lead or advise on exploration well planning, seismic acquisition/reprocessing, and post-drill learnings to improve prospect ranking.
  • Mentor geoscientists and set best practices for integrated interpretation, uncertainty tracking, and executive-level communication.
  • Represent Continental Resources in external technical engagements with partners and authorities and stay current on emerging exploration technologies.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Skills and Competencies

  • Integrated Interpretation - Integrates geology, geophysics, petrophysics, and geochemistry into clear play and prospect models.
  • Seismic Interpretation - 2D/3D seismic structural and stratigraphic mapping and interpretation across onshore and offshore datasets.
  • Quantitative Interpretation - Familiarity with rock physics/AVO and seismic inversion concepts.
  • Potential-Field Methods - Practical application of gravity and magnetic data for regional screening, structural constraint, and basement interpretation.
  • Petroleum Systems & Basin Modeling Source rock, charge/migration, timing, and play risking.
  • Reservoir Characterization - Petrophysics, rock properties, and analogs to assess reservoir quality and distribution.
  • Communication & Leadership - Communicates technical work effectively with senior technical and executive audiences.
  • Collaboration - Works well across disciplines and turns inputs into recommendations.

Required Qualifications

  • Master's or Doctorate degree in Geoscience or Earth Sciences from an accredited university.
  • Minimum of fifteen (15) years of exploration experience with demonstrated success in new ventures and basin-scale petroleum systems evaluation.
  • Expertise in conventional and unconventional reservoirs, including play fairway mapping, prospect generation, and probabilistic resource assessments.
  • Proficiency in industry-standard geoscience software (e.g., Geographix, Petrel, Kingdom, ArcGIS, PaleoScan, etc.).
  • Strong capability in geological interpretation, well log analysis, and integration of conventional and unconventional petrophysical data.
  • Applied geophysical mapping skills, including 2D/3D seismic mapping and interpretation calibrated to well control.
  • Advisor-level capability to lead high-impact evaluations, guide integrated workflows, and mentor peers through reviews and technical coaching.
  • Experience in strategic exploration planning, exploration well execution, and post-drill technical evaluation.
  • Applied understanding of economic evaluation, value drivers, and risk-based framing to support exploration screening and deal decisions.
  • An acceptable pre-employment background and drug test.

Preferred Qualifications

  • International exploration experience, including offshore new ventures and exploration & appraisal program execution.
  • Experience applying remote sensing, surface imaging, or geospatial datasets as a complementary input to basin screening and integrated exploration workflows.
  • Demonstrated ability to integrate structural geology, tectonic evolution, and basin-scale geodynamic frameworks into exploration strategies.
  • Awareness of, and experience applying, AI-assisted workflows and emerging technologies to improve interpretation efficiency, data QC, and general AI literacy.
  • Curious, keeps learning, and looks for better ways to evaluate plays and prospects.
  • Positive, practical, and collaborative in high-uncertainty exploration work.
  • Professional proficiency in one or more languages in addition to English.
  • Experience working with partners in international, JV, or PSC settings, including technical assurance and stakeholder communication.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

  • Requires prolonged sitting, some bending and stooping.
  • Occasional lifting up to 25 pounds.
  • Manual dexterity sufficient to operate a computer keyboard and calculator.

Continental Resources, Inc. provides equal employment and affirmative action opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.