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Trainee Geologist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Trainee Geologist information

See Virginia salary details

$35.7K

$76.4K

$123.4K

How much do trainee geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee geologist in Virginia is $76,370.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,500.00 and $92,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainee geologist?

A Trainee Geologist is an entry-level role where individuals gain hands-on experience in studying the Earth's structure, materials, and processes. They assist senior geologists in fieldwork, data collection, sample analysis, and report preparation. This role is common in industries like mining, environmental consulting, and oil and gas exploration. Trainees typically hold a degree in geology or a related field and develop essential skills in geological mapping, software tools, and laboratory techniques.

What type of fieldwork and office work can I expect as a trainee geologist?

As a Trainee Geologist, you'll likely split your time between fieldwork—collecting soil, rock, or core samples, conducting site surveys, and mapping geological features—and office work, such as analyzing samples, preparing reports, and working with geographic information systems (GIS) or other software. Fieldwork often involves traveling to various sites, sometimes in remote or challenging environments, and adhering strictly to safety protocols. In the office, you'll collaborate closely with senior geologists and other team members, contributing to project planning, data interpretation, and presentations. This balanced mix of hands-on, technical, and collaborative tasks offers a broad learning experience and prepares you for advancement in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the trainee geologist position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Trainee Geologist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in geology or a related earth science field and a solid grasp of geological principles, mapping, and sample analysis. Familiarity with GIS software, geological modeling tools, and laboratory analysis equipment is often required, and safety certifications like HAZWOPER can be valuable depending on the industry. Strong observational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively in field teams are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, adherence to safety standards, and effective contribution to geological projects.

How much does a trainee geologist make?

A trainee geologist typically earns between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and level of education. Entry-level positions may start lower, but with experience and certifications, salaries can increase. The role often involves fieldwork and data analysis using geological tools and software.

Is there a high demand for trainee geologists?

The demand for trainee geologists is generally steady, especially in industries such as oil and gas, environmental consulting, and mining, where geological expertise is essential. Entry-level positions often require relevant fieldwork skills and certifications, and employment opportunities can vary based on industry activity and regional economic conditions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Geologist jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Geologist jobs in Virginia are:

What job categories do people searching Trainee Geologist jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Trainee Geologist jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Trainee Geologist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Trainee Geologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Trainee Geologist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,370 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Disposal Operations Management Trainee - Western PA/VA

wm

King George, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Waste Management rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 651 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 91 rated recycling and waste


Job description

I. Job Summary

The Disposal Operations Management Trainee (DOMT) position is part of a required developmental training program lasting up to 18 months. The duties and responsibilities are under the direction and supervision of WM frontline managers (e.g., Area Directors of Disposal Operations, Landfill District Managers, and Operations Managers) related to the operations of a landfill. The primary mentor for this position will be the Landfill District Manager at the training location to which the DOMT is assigned or the Area Director of Disposal Operations. The DOMT, through assigned work activities, a training curriculum, and hands-on projects, will develop a strong working knowledge of all aspects of the day-to-day disposal operations at a WM landfill, including but not limited to, safety, environmental protection and permitting, finance and accounting, personnel management, heavy equipment, community and customer service, construction and engineering, gas and leachate management, and waste streams and sales. The Disposal OMT training program is designed to develop individuals into Operations Managers and District Managers with a strong career path to Directors of Disposal Operations or other roles.

II. Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Successfully complete the Disposal OMT curriculum consisting of Foundational, Intermediate, and Advanced level training. Complete all required training items through participation in the WM Learning Management System.
  • Attend and participate in all mandatory group training sessions.
  • Disposal Operations: Responsible for the knowledge development and progressive understanding and expertise in all aspects of day-to-day management of a landfill, including, but not limited to, fill sequencing, cover operations, waste placement and compaction operations, equipment and labor deployment, storm water management, and traffic flow.
  • Develop a working knowledge of heavy equipment functionality and maintenance care including actual operation and in-shop maintenance.
  • Learn how to effectively manage site personnel including non-exempt operators through experiential efforts and training.
  • Develop an understanding of landfill design and construction including cell excavation and earthwork, liner cross-sections, slope stability, geosynthetics deployment, leachate control and landfill gas control systems and final cover cross sections.
  • Develop proficiency and understanding in all aspects of leachate and landfill gas management. Develop general understanding of renewable energy operations and its relationship with the landfill gas systems.
  • Develop a strong sense of community affairs and community relations management through actual participation in public affairs events and processes.
  • Develop a complete understanding of environmental monitoring and environmental protection issues that exist at a landfill including interaction with various regulatory agencies. Review and understand regulatory requirements and site permits.
  • Develop understanding of financial, accounting, and forecasting processes and systems including experience in reporting to senior management and showing proficiency in operations of the scale house.
  • Develop understanding of how waste streams are sold and priced within WM sales and marketing organization, and its relationship to operations.
  • Develop a strong understanding and dedication to the WM Safety Program; work with Corporate and local safety teams to continue to create an increasingly aware and observant safety conscious culture.
  • Participate in landfill operational reviews and provide constructive feedback to operations staff.
  • Participate in Area mentor programs.
  • Perform other duties as assigned that may include special projects and interim management assignments. Learning will be very action and experiential based.

III. Qualifications

A. Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree (accredited), or in lieu of degree
  • High School Diploma or GED (accredited) and 4 years of relevant work experience.
  • 5 years of relevant work experience with increased responsibility in construction, engineering, geology, operations management or heavy equipment (in addition to education requirement).

B. Preferred Qualifications

  • PE (Professional Engineer) certificate
  • RLS (Registered Land Surveyor) certificate
  • PG (Professional Geologist) certificate

IV. Physical Requirements

Listed below are key points regarding physical demands, physical and occupational risks, and the work environment of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

V. Benefits

At WM, each eligible employee receives a competitive total compensation package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance and Short Term Disability. As well as a Stock Purchase Plan, Company match on 401K, and more! Our employees also receive Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Personal Days. Please note that benefits may vary by site.

PLEASE SUBMIT A CURRENT RESUME TO RECIEVE FURTHER CONSIDERATION FOR THIS POSITION.

If this sounds like the opportunity that you have been looking for, please click "Apply."

Equal Opportunity Employer: Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran


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About WM

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Environmental consulting services and water, sewage, waste, steam, air heating and cooling systems

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US