The USGS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Program provides highly motivated recent Ph.D. graduates ... Geology, Geochemistry, Economic Geology or related fields. Candidates holding a Ph.D. in other ...
The USGS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Program provides highly motivated recent Ph.D. graduates ... Geology, Geochemistry, Economic Geology or related fields. Candidates holding a Ph.D. in other ...
Research Geologist (Postdoctoral Research Fellowship)
Anchorage, AK · On-site
$101K/yr
The USGS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Program provides highly motivated recent Ph.D. graduates ... Geology, Geochemistry, Economic Geology or related fields. Candidates holding a Ph.D. in other ...
Research Geologist (Postdoctoral Research Fellowship)
Anchorage, AK · On-site
$101K/yr
The USGS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Program provides highly motivated recent Ph.D. graduates ... Geology, Geochemistry, Economic Geology or related fields. Candidates holding a Ph.D. in other ...
The USGS Earth Mapping Resource Initiative (Earth MRI), a high-profile, national mapping, data ... Geology, Geochemistry, Economic Geology or related fields. Candidates holding a Ph.D. in other ...
The USGS Earth Mapping Resource Initiative (Earth MRI), a high-profile, national mapping, data ... Geology, Geochemistry, Economic Geology or related fields. Candidates holding a Ph.D. in other ...
Research Associate 3, 4, or 5
Energy, IL · On-site
This position supports federal USGS StateMap program requirements, Louisiana state geological mapping initiatives, and research projects related to energy resources, environmental studies, and ...
Research Associate 3, 4, or 5
Energy, IL · On-site
This position supports federal USGS StateMap program requirements, Louisiana state geological mapping initiatives, and research projects related to energy resources, environmental studies, and ...
Research Associate 3, 4, or 5
Energy, IL · On-site
This position supports federal USGS StateMap program requirements, Louisiana state geological mapping initiatives, and research projects related to energy resources, environmental studies, and ...
Research Associate 3, 4, or 5
Energy, IL · On-site
This position supports federal USGS StateMap program requirements, Louisiana state geological mapping initiatives, and research projects related to energy resources, environmental studies, and ...
This position supports federal USGS StateMap program requirements, Louisiana state geological mapping initiatives, and research projects related to energy resources, environmental studies, and ...
This position supports federal USGS StateMap program requirements, Louisiana state geological mapping initiatives, and research projects related to energy resources, environmental studies, and ...
Tier 1 Level II Lead.
Denver, CO · On-site
$48K - $50K/yr
Sharp Solutions, Inc. has an immediate need for a Tier I Level II Technician in the Lakewood/Denver, Colorado area for a new contract Task Order supporting the United States Geological Survey (USGS)
Quick apply
Tier 1 Level II Lead.
Denver, CO · On-site
$48K - $50K/yr
Sharp Solutions, Inc. has an immediate need for a Tier I Level II Technician in the Lakewood/Denver, Colorado area for a new contract Task Order supporting the United States Geological Survey (USGS)
Tier 1 Level II Lead.
Denver, CO · On-site
Sharp Solutions, Inc. has an immediate need for a Tier I Level II Technician in the Lakewood/Denver, Colorado area for a new contract Task Order supporting the United States Geological Survey (USGS)
Tier 1 Level II Lead.
Denver, CO · On-site
Sharp Solutions, Inc. has an immediate need for a Tier I Level II Technician in the Lakewood/Denver, Colorado area for a new contract Task Order supporting the United States Geological Survey (USGS)
Assistant Professor (Geology) (UPDATED 06/24/2026) Position Numbers: 0082686 Hiring Unit: College ... We have existing collaborations with the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) and the Center for ...
Assistant Professor (Geology) (UPDATED 06/24/2026) Position Numbers: 0082686 Hiring Unit: College ... We have existing collaborations with the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) and the Center for ...
Assistant Professor (Geology) (UPDATED 06/24/2026) Position Numbers: 0082686 Hiring Unit: College ... We have existing collaborations with the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) and the Center for ...
Assistant Professor (Geology) (UPDATED 06/24/2026) Position Numbers: 0082686 Hiring Unit: College ... We have existing collaborations with the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) and the Center for ...
Tier 1 Level II Lead.
Denver, CO · On-site
$48K - $50K/yr
Sharp Solutions, Inc. has an immediate need for a Tier I Level II Technician in the Lakewood/Denver, Colorado area for a new contract Task Order supporting the United States Geological Survey (USGS)
Tier 1 Level II Lead.
Denver, CO · On-site
$48K - $50K/yr
Sharp Solutions, Inc. has an immediate need for a Tier I Level II Technician in the Lakewood/Denver, Colorado area for a new contract Task Order supporting the United States Geological Survey (USGS)
Postdoctoral Fellow - Water Observation - 529475
Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site
$53K - $66K/yr
Geological Survey (USGS) and the University of Alabama focused on advancing new water observing technologies and using off-the-shelf technologies in new ways to improve the operational monitoring and ...
Postdoctoral Fellow - Water Observation - 529475
Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site
$53K - $66K/yr
Geological Survey (USGS) and the University of Alabama focused on advancing new water observing technologies and using off-the-shelf technologies in new ways to improve the operational monitoring and ...
Tier 1 Level II Lead.
Denver, CO · On-site
$35 - $37/hr
... Geological Survey (USGS). The ideal candidate is a self-starter with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, flexibility, sound judgment, the ability to work through challenges with all ...
Quick apply
Tier 1 Level II Lead.
Denver, CO · On-site
$35 - $37/hr
... Geological Survey (USGS). The ideal candidate is a self-starter with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, flexibility, sound judgment, the ability to work through challenges with all ...
GIS Specialist - Entry Level
Rolla, MO · Remote
$38K - $40K/yr
As a GIS Specialist, you will be joining XTS's highly capable and collaborative Geospatial Technical Services team supporting the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and their Seamless 1 Meter ...
Quick apply
GIS Specialist - Entry Level
Rolla, MO · Remote
$38K - $40K/yr
As a GIS Specialist, you will be joining XTS's highly capable and collaborative Geospatial Technical Services team supporting the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and their Seamless 1 Meter ...
Tier 1 Level II Lead.
Denver, CO · On-site
... Geological Survey (USGS). The ideal candidate is a self-starter with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, flexibility, sound judgment, the ability to work through challenges with all ...
Tier 1 Level II Lead.
Denver, CO · On-site
... Geological Survey (USGS). The ideal candidate is a self-starter with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, flexibility, sound judgment, the ability to work through challenges with all ...
Tier 1 Level II Lead.
Denver, CO · On-site
$35 - $37/hr
... Geological Survey (USGS). The ideal candidate is a self-starter with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, flexibility, sound judgment, the ability to work through challenges with all ...
Tier 1 Level II Lead.
Denver, CO · On-site
$35 - $37/hr
... Geological Survey (USGS). The ideal candidate is a self-starter with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, flexibility, sound judgment, the ability to work through challenges with all ...
Customer Service Representative I
Denver, CO · On-site
$16 - $21.75/hr
... Geological Survey. This is not a sales position. The successful candidate will be able to provide ... JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Staff will provide USGS Online Support. Public and business partners make ...
Customer Service Representative I
Denver, CO · On-site
$16 - $21.75/hr
... Geological Survey. This is not a sales position. The successful candidate will be able to provide ... JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Staff will provide USGS Online Support. Public and business partners make ...
GIS Specialist - Entry Level
Rolla, MO · On-site +1
$38K - $40K/yr
As a GIS Specialist, you will be joining XTS's highly capable and collaborative Geospatial Technical Services team supporting the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and their Seamless 1 Meter ...
GIS Specialist - Entry Level
Rolla, MO · On-site +1
$38K - $40K/yr
As a GIS Specialist, you will be joining XTS's highly capable and collaborative Geospatial Technical Services team supporting the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and their Seamless 1 Meter ...
KBR's Science and Space division is seeking a Scientist to support Satellite-Derived Bathymetry (SDB) for our Technical Support Services Contract (TSSC) at the United States Geological Survey (USGS ...
KBR's Science and Space division is seeking a Scientist to support Satellite-Derived Bathymetry (SDB) for our Technical Support Services Contract (TSSC) at the United States Geological Survey (USGS ...
Satellite-Derived Bathymetry Scientist
Sioux Falls, SD · On-site +1
KBR's Science and Space division is seeking a Scientist to support Satellite-Derived Bathymetry (SDB) for our Technical Support Services Contract (TSSC) at the United States Geological Survey (USGS ...
Satellite-Derived Bathymetry Scientist
Sioux Falls, SD · On-site +1
KBR's Science and Space division is seeking a Scientist to support Satellite-Derived Bathymetry (SDB) for our Technical Support Services Contract (TSSC) at the United States Geological Survey (USGS ...
Usgs Geologist information
See salary details
$36K - $44K
7% of jobs
$44K - $52.1K
13% of jobs
$54.9K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$52.1K - $60.1K
14% of jobs
$60.1K - $68.2K
9% of jobs
The median wage is $72.5K / yr.
$68.2K - $76.2K
14% of jobs
$76.2K - $84.3K
13% of jobs
$88.7K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$84.3K - $92.3K
11% of jobs
$92.3K - $100.4K
11% of jobs
$100.4K - $108.4K
3% of jobs
$108.4K - $116.5K
5% of jobs
$116.5K - $124.5K
1% of jobs
$36K
$77K
$124.5K
How much do usgs geologist jobs pay per year?
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a USGS geologist?
As a USGS Geologist, your daily tasks may involve conducting field surveys, collecting and analyzing geological samples, and interpreting data using specialized software. You’ll often collaborate with scientists, engineers, and policy makers on multidisciplinary projects related to natural resources, hazards, or environmental impacts. Lab work, report writing, and presenting findings are also routine components of the role. The job offers a balanced mix of outdoor fieldwork and office-based analysis, fostering a dynamic and engaging work environment.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a USGS geologist?
To thrive as a USGS Geologist, candidates typically need a degree in geology or earth sciences, strong analytical skills, and experience in fieldwork and data interpretation. Familiarity with GIS software, mapping technologies, rock and mineral analysis tools, and sometimes federal certifications or specialized training in environmental or geotechnical surveys, is important. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities are valued soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and effectively reporting findings. These skills ensure accurate data collection, successful project execution, and meaningful contributions to scientific research and public safety.
What is a USGS geologist?
A USGS Geologist studies the Earth's structure, processes, and resources to support natural hazard assessments, environmental protection, and resource management. They conduct fieldwork, analyze geological samples, and use mapping techniques to understand land formations and changes. Their research helps inform policies on earthquakes, volcanoes, water resources, and climate change. Many USGS Geologists specialize in areas like hydrogeology, mineralogy, or seismology, contributing to scientific discoveries and public safety.

$101K/yr
Full-time
Posted 25 days ago
Job description
Salary: First time hires to the Federal Government are typically hired at Step 01. Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) rate of 1.49% is authorized and subject to change without notice.
GS-12: $101,206 (Step 01) to $131,571 (Step 10).
Qualifications:Description of the Research Opportunity:
The proposed project would use some combination of geochemical (including stable or radiogenic isotopes), petrology, and petrography to address the evolution of and controls on mineral resources. The proposed research may directly address one or more fundamental questions that include, but are not limited to:
- What is the age of critical mineral resource formation in southwest Alaska? How are the mineral resources related in time or space to igneous systems, and how are they distributed on the landscape?
- What, if any, role does the basement terrane play in critical mineral resource potential in a deposit?
- What are potential linkages between crustal architecture, magmatic composition, and critical mineral endowment of mineral systems in southwest Alaska?
- What potential fluids are responsible for critical mineral enrichment in mineral deposits?
- How can we better predict critical mineral enrichments as co- and by-products?
These questions require a better and more integrated understanding of the framework geology and mineral resources. The ideal proposal would investigate a combination of topical and framework processes to evaluate the role of regional geologic components to critical mineral formation in ore deposits. Understanding features from the deposit to regional scale are critical in the ability to integrate ore deposit genesis to mineral system mappable criteria.
The USGS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Program provides highly motivated recent Ph.D. graduates with the opportunity to conduct concentrated research in association with selected USGS Scientists, as a final element to their formal career preparation. Selectees will utilize the excellent scientific resources available at the USGS in the conduct of scientific investigations and exploratory development associated with advanced scientific research. This program will provide selectees the opportunity to contribute to the overall research efforts of the USGS and in turn they will gain excellent professional research experience early in their careers.
Appointments under the USGS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Program will be made under the Schedule A, 213.3102 (r) excepted appointing authority for a minimum period of 13 months and may be extended up to a maximum period of 4 years.
In order to be considered for these opportunities, candidates must:
(1) have successfully completed a Ph.D. in a field related to the Research Description no earlier than 7/03/2021; OR
(2) if close to completion, have all Ph.D. requirements completed and must submit proof of completion prior to receiving an official start date;
(3) meet the qualification requirements described in the Research Opportunity. The research proposal submitted must demonstrate that the applicant is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties for the specific Research Opportunity.
Areas of PhD: Geology, Geochemistry, Economic Geology or related fields. Candidates holding a Ph.D. in other disciplines, but with extensive knowledge and skills relevant to the Research Opportunity may be considered.
BASIC EDUCATION REQUIREMENT: Applicants must meet A or B below to satisfy the basic education requirement for Geologist, all grade levels.
A. Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in geology. In addition to the geology course work included in the degree, it must also have included or been supplemented by 20 additional semester hours in any combination of mathematics, physics, chemistry, biological science, structural, chemical, civil, mining or petroleum engineering, computer science, planetary geology, comparative planetology, geophysics, meteorology, hydrology, oceanography, physical geography, marine geology, and cartography; OR
B. A combination of education and experience-course work as shown in "A" above (24 semester hours or the equivalent in geology plus 20 additional semester hours or the equivalent in any combination of courses as specified in "A" above), plus appropriate experience and/or additional education for a total of 4 years. The education or combined education and experience must be comparable in type, scope and thoroughness to that acquired through successful completion of a 4-year course of study as described in "A" above. (CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS ON HOW TO COMBINE EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE)
Examples of such experience could include planning and executing complex geologic studies, which usually involved intensive investigations into recognized phenomena. This work typically involved conventional methods & techniques though it required going beyond clear precedents and required adapting methods to the problems at hand and interpreting findings in terms of their scientific significance. At this level, Geologists have a very good knowledge of the principles of geology and their application, and the ability to independently perform scientific work of considerable difficulty.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g. Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
NOTICE TO NON-CITIZENS
Under Executive Order 11935, only United States citizens and nationals (residents of American Samoa and Swains Island) may compete for civil service jobs. A Federal agency is permitted to hire non-citizens only in very limited circumstances where there are no qualified citizens available for the position, AND the non-citizen meets the appropriation act and immigration laws. Read the information provided in the following link. If a non-citizen does not meet the appropriation act and immigration laws, then they cannot be considered for this Mendenhall Opportunity. Please contact the person under Agency Contact Information for questions about eligibility and further assistance. https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/working-in-government/non-citizens/.Education:Foreign Education: Education completed in colleges or universities outside the United States may be used to meet the above requirements. You must provide acceptable documentation that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. For more information on how foreign education is evaluated, visit: https://www.usgs.gov/human-capital/how-foreign-education-evaluated-federal-jobsEmployment Type: OTHER