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How much does a Geologist make?

The average salary for a Geologist is $86,074 per year in the US.

Geologists study the Earth's physical structure and materials. They explore the Earth's history, resources, and processes. This work can lead to exciting careers in many fields. The average yearly salary for a geologist is $86,074. This means most geologists earn between this amount and more.

Geologists can find jobs in many areas. Some work for the government, others for private companies. Some may work in research, while others might focus on practical applications. The salary can vary based on the job and location. For example, those in the top 10% earn over $143,304 a year. This shows that with experience and skill, a geologist can earn a good living.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Geologist?

Denver, Colorado, offers some of the highest salaries for geologists, with an average of $110,720. This city attracts many geologists due to its strong energy sector and natural resources. San Diego, California, follows closely with an average salary of $109,216, making it another top choice for those in the field. Other cities like Sacramento, San Jose, and Los Angeles also provide competitive salaries for geologists. These cities benefit from diverse industries and opportunities in natural resource management. Job seekers should consider these locations for better financial prospects.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Geologist jobs, highlighting Denver, CO with the highest at $110,720 and Austin, TX with the lowest at $75,702.
  1. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $110,720
    In Denver, professionals explore the Rocky Mountains' geology. Companies like CH2M and AECOM offer exciting projects. The city's natural beauty makes fieldwork rewarding.
    Find Geologist jobs in Denver, CO


  2. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $109,216
    San Diego offers a mix of coastal and desert geology. Firms such as Jacobs and AECOM provide diverse opportunities. The mild climate makes outdoor work pleasant.
    Find Geologist jobs in San Diego, CA


  3. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $107,381
    Sacramento's geology includes river valleys and foothills. Companies like URS and AECOM focus on water resource projects. The city's central location offers easy access to various sites.
    Find Geologist jobs in Sacramento, CA


  4. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $106,126
    San Jose, in Silicon Valley, combines tech and geology. Firms such as Tetra Tech and AECOM work on innovative projects. The city's tech-savvy environment is ideal for modern geologists.
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  5. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $101,612
    Los Angeles offers a mix of urban and coastal geology. Companies like AECOM and Bechtel work on large-scale projects. The city's diverse landscapes provide rich opportunities for study.
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  6. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $87,513
    Portland's geology features volcanic and glacial features. Firms such as CH2M and URS focus on environmental projects. The city's green initiatives make it a great place for eco-conscious geologists.
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  7. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $84,880
    Seattle's geology includes volcanic and marine features. Companies like AECOM and Tetra Tech offer exciting projects. The city's proximity to natural sites makes fieldwork easy.
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  8. Anchorage, AK
    Average Salary: $84,249
    Anchorage offers unique geology with glaciers and permafrost. Firms like CH2M and AECOM work on infrastructure projects. The city's remote location provides a distinct work environment.
    Find Geologist jobs in Anchorage, AK


  9. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $77,375
    Houston's geology includes coastal and oil-rich areas. Companies like Halliburton and AECOM offer diverse opportunities. The city's energy sector provides a dynamic work environment.
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  10. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $75,702
    Austin's geology features karst landscapes and hill country. Firms such as AECOM and Tetra Tech work on urban development projects. The city's tech and music scene adds to the vibrant atmosphere.
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What are the best companies a Geologist can work for?

Ninyo & Moore offers the highest average salary for geologists at $101,545. This company provides excellent opportunities for professionals in the field. Stantec follows closely with an average salary of $98,900, making it another top choice for job seekers. GEI Consultants, Terracon Consultants Inc, TRC, and Antea Group also offer competitive salaries, ranging from $92,763 to $60,250. These companies provide valuable career growth and development for geologists.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Geologist jobs, highlighting Ninyo & Moore with the highest at $101,545 and Antea Group with the lowest at $60,250.
  1. Ninyo & Moore
    Average Salary: $101,545
    Ninyo & Moore offers exciting Geologist roles with a focus on environmental consulting. They operate in various locations, including California, Texas, and Florida. Their projects often involve site assessments and environmental impact studies.


  2. Stantec
    Average Salary: $98,900
    Stantec provides Geologist positions with a strong emphasis on infrastructure and water management. They work in many states across the U.S. Their projects include water resource management and infrastructure development.


  3. GEI Consultants
    Average Salary: $92,763
    GEI Consultants offers Geologist jobs with a focus on environmental consulting and engineering. They operate in several states, including New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. Their work involves site assessments and environmental impact studies.


  4. Terracon Consultants Inc
    Average Salary: $87,709
    Terracon Consultants Inc provides Geologist roles with a focus on geotechnical and environmental consulting. They operate in many states, including Colorado, Arizona, and Nevada. Their projects include site assessments and environmental impact studies.


  5. TRC
    Average Salary: $87,107
    TRC offers Geologist positions with a focus on environmental consulting and engineering. They operate in many states, including Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Their work involves site assessments and environmental impact studies.


  6. Antea Group
    Average Salary: $60,250
    Antea Group provides Geologist roles with a focus on environmental consulting and engineering. They operate in many states, including North Carolina, Virginia, and Maryland. Their projects include site assessments and environmental impact studies.

How to earn more as a Geologist?

A Geologist can increase their earning potential by focusing on several key areas. Gaining specialized skills and certifications can open up higher-paying job opportunities. For instance, becoming a certified hydrogeologist or petroleum geologist can lead to roles with better compensation. Another way to earn more is by gaining experience in the field. Experienced Geologists often command higher salaries due to their expertise and knowledge.

Networking and building professional relationships can also lead to higher-paying positions. Attending industry conferences and joining professional organizations can connect Geologists with potential employers offering better salaries. Relocation to areas with higher demand for Geologists can also increase earning potential. Additionally, pursuing advanced degrees such as a Master's or Ph.D. can lead to higher-paying roles in academia or research.

Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Geologist:

  1. Obtain specialized certifications.
  2. Gain relevant experience.
  3. Network with industry professionals.
  4. Relocate to high-demand areas.
  5. Pursue advanced degrees.

Currently 92 Geologist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Geologist in the US?

Learn what a Geologist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Geologist today.
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Geologist
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