Geoscientist Jobs in Missoula, MT

Missoula, Montana$104,000 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Geoscientist Jobs in Missoula

Looking for a Geoscientist job in Missoula? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Geoscientist in Missoula, MT.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Missoula has a strong job market for Geoscientists. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Geoscientist Salary in Missoula

Entry Level
$61,880
Median
$104,000
Senior Level
$155,480

Geoscientist salaries in Missoula are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Missoula is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

GeologyGISData AnalysisField ResearchTechnical Writing

Geoscientist Job Market in Missoula

Missoula, MT is a specialized market with unique career opportunities for Geoscientist professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Missoula offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Education leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Geoscientist roles across various sectors. The market for Geoscientist positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Geoscientists in Missoula

Local governmentRegional employersNational companies

Major employers hiring Geoscientists in Missoula include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Geoscientists in Missoula

Living in Missoula as a Geoscientist means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Geoscientist salary, housing is quite affordable at 21% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

104
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 4
Market Size

Commuting as a Geoscientist in Missoula

Missoula Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Geoscientists in Missoula: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Geoscientist professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Montana

Montana has moderate state income taxes. When evaluating offers, consider total compensation including benefits, not just base salary. Local cost of living typically has more impact on your finances than state tax differences.

Career Outlook for Geoscientists

The job outlook for Geoscientists in Missoula is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Missoula offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Geology, GIS, Data Analysis, Field Research.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Geoscientist salary in Missoula, MT?

The average Geoscientist salary in Missoula, MT is $104,000 per year. Entry-level Geoscientists typically start around $61,880, while experienced professionals can earn $155,480 or more. The national average for Geoscientist roles is $100,000.

How many Geoscientist jobs are available in Missoula?

Missoula has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Geoscientist professionals. Major employers hiring Geoscientists include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. The Education and Healthcare sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Missoula a good city for Geoscientists?

Missoula is an solid choice for Geoscientists. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's education industry creates strong demand for engineering professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Geoscientists in Missoula?

Top skills for Geoscientists in Missoula include Geology, GIS, Data Analysis, Field Research, Technical Writing. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Geoscientists in Missoula?

Missoula's cost of living is near the national average (104% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Missoula is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Geoscientists in Missoula?

Missoula Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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