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Geologist Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Last updated: September 27, 2023

A Geologist, or Earth Scientist, is in charge of studying natural formations and the earth’s processes to promote environmental conservation or safe land development. Their duties include going into the field and collecting mineral samples, creating maps of geographical features and testing a rock formation’s natural engineering to prepare for construction.

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Geologist Duties and Responsibilities

Geologists use strongly developed research skills to better understand the planet and its many resources. Geologists have the following responsibilities:

  • Evaluate and explore the planet and its natural resources
  • Identify and improve upon research methods
  • Make land process predictions based on previous earthquakes, volcanoes, floods and tornadoes
  • Interpret and report data they collect from the field
  • Prepare and lead geology training with fellow colleagues
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Geologist Job Description Examples

Example 1

To be considered for this position, you must apply at [website] To apply you must first create a CalCareers account. Once your account is created you can search 391383 to locate the job posting and apply.

Note: This position will no longer be available on CalCareers after the job closes on 10/09/2023. No applications will be accepted after the job closing date.

Positions at the Water Boards may be eligible for telework with in-person attendance based on the operational needs of the position.

Are you looking for an exciting and fulfilling career in Groundwater Protection? If you enjoy a career protecting the environment and human health, then this may be the position for you! Apply today and join our team. The State Water Resources Control Board s Colorado River Basin Region has an opening for an Engineering Geologist in the Land Disposal Program. The position is located at 73720 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, in the scenic Coachella Valley next to Civic Center Park.

Under the close supervision of a Senior Water Resource Control Engineer and consistent with good customer service practices and the goals of the State and Regional Board s Strategic Plan, the incumbent is expected to be courteous and provide timely responses to internal/external customers, follow through on commitments, and to solicit and consider internal/external customer input when completing work assignments.

The Engineering Geologist (EG) is responsible for providing timely and professional technical responses/assistance to the public and staff within the Department, by phone, e-mail, mail, and in person. The EG is required to work independently, communicate effectively, manage multiple cases, review monitoring reports, take enforcement actions, and become proficient in technical duties. Daily proficient utilization of office equipment and the Microsoft Office Suite is required. The EG drives to conduct field inspections both announced and unannounced as required.

Additional information:

Candidates must possess essential personal qualifications including integrity, initiative, dependability, good judgment, the ability to work cooperatively with others, and the ability to perform the assigned duties of the class.

If the position requires driving, you must possess a current and valid driver s license. Please Do Not include full Social Security Number, method of eligibility, and LEAP information in your application package.

Salary information CalHR salary rules allow appointment at the entrance rate (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 2, 599.673) of a classification. For classes with alternate ranges, placement is based on education/experience.

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $6,175.00 - $11,626.00 per month

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $6,175.00 - $11,626.00 per month

Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance
    Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift



    Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Palm Desert, CA 92260: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

    License/Certification:
  • Hazardous Waste Operations & Emergency Response Training Location: Hybrid remote in Palm Desert, CA 92260

    • Example 2

    GSI Engineering, a Universal Engineering Sciences (UES) Company, has an opening in our Geotechnical Department. UES is a nationwide leader in Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Materials Testing and Inspection, Building Code Compliance, Environmental, Occupational Health & Safety, and Building Envelope.
    UES is thrilled to be named the #1 fastest growing AEC firm by the Zweig Group. The Zweig Group's Hot Firm list honors the fastest-growing firms in the architecture, engineering, planning, environmental, and construction (AEC) industry. For the first time in four years, a new firm, UES, took the number one spot on the 2021 list! Firms are ranked based on three-year growth in revenue, by both percentage and dollar growth.
    Under the supervision of a designated supervisor or project manager, the Staff Engineer/Geologisthelps to organize and carry out the field, laboratory, and technical work for a variety of projects. Receives considerable practical training to supplement previously-obtained theoretical knowledge.

    Job Responsibilities:
  • Locates, observes, and logs field borings, probes, and test pits from plan layouts
  • Participates in drilling and sampling operations using manual or power-operated hand augering equipment
  • Installs reads, and interprets field instruments such as observation wells, inclinometers, etc.
  • Performs observations of field activities for compliance with project objectives and prepares reports documenting activities
  • Practices loss prevention techniques
  • Provides liaison with subcontractors, suppliers, and client representatives to achieve satisfactory field operations
  • Is responsible for alerting the project leader or supervisor of difficulties encountered, cost and time overruns, change in scope requested by the client, potential liability exposure, or any other matter pertinent to the satisfactory completion of the project
  • Projects a positive image of the Firm in all professional/personal contacts
  • Performs other duties as requested
  • Receives on-the-job training as required to develop technical skills and applies theoretical knowledge to practical problems
  • Learns and applies loss prevention techniques, especially those pertaining to on-site work
  • Maintains and updates technical knowledge through literature review and attendance at professional meetings and conferences
  • Conduct activities safely and healthily and work in accordance with established safety and company requirements, including Geotechnology's Life-Saving Rules. Conducts periodic job site safety observations
  • Participates in group safety meetings and job site tailgate safety meetings
  • Completes assigned safety training
  • As experience is gained, less supervision is given, especially on repetitive assignments

    Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Geology
  • Engineer-in-Training Certificate for engineering candidates preferred
  • Must have an education background as indicated, with a strong work ethic and the ability to assess and react to project situations
  • Good oral and written communication skills, including good technical writing capabilities
  • A capacity for accuracy and detail in performing technical observations and analyses
  • Ability to effectively use computers
  • Ability to use initiative and work independently within the limitations of experience
  • Knowledge of various exploratory and laboratory techniques

    Job Type: Full-time

    Pay: From $45,000.00 per year

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
    Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift

    Education:
  • Bachelor's (Required)

    License/Certification:
  • Driver's License Location: One location

    • Example 3

    Krazan and Associates, Inc. is a Site Development Engineering Firm made up of a team of enthusiastic, energetic, and imaginative individuals with a shared philosophy of professional service. We are seeking a Senior Geologist (CEG) to join our expanding team.

    The candidate should have at least 5 years geotechnical experience and the following qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering Geology, Geology or Geological Engineering (Master's degree preferred).
  • State of California Certified Engineering Geologist
  • Experience in: site characterization; logging of exploratory trenches, small and large diameter boreholes (including downhole logging); geologic mapping and development of geologic cross-sections; aerial photograph interpretation; and fault studies.
  • Excellent technical writing skills. Adept at use of Microsoft Word and Excel.
  • Project management skills including budgeting, proposal preparation, staff supervision and client relations.
  • Valid California Driver's License and vehicle.

    Candidate should expect to perform a combination of field investigation, construction observation, proposal preparation and technical report preparation.

    Krazan & Associates promotes a drug/alcohol free work environment through the use of mandatory pre-employment drug testing. Krazan & Associates is an Equal Opportunity Employer who looks forward to helping people build long-term successful careers within our organization. This organization participates in E-Verity for I-9 verification.

    Job Type: Full-time

    Pay: $90,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
    Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift



    License/Certification:
  • Certified Engineering Geologist Location: In person

    • Example 4

    Geotechnical Laboratory Engineer/Geologist (Round Rock, TX)

    Beyond Engineering and Testing, LLC (Beyond) is currently seeking a full-time Geotechnical Laboratory Engineer/Geologist to join our team in Round Rock, Texas. Beyond is an accredited and licensed Texas and New Mexico engineering firm that provides geotechnical and construction material testing services, with offices located in Texas (Midland, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Austin-Round Rock), and in New Mexico (Carlsbad). We have experienced significant growth and success in commercial, municipal, infrastructure and transportation projects. This is an opportunity to develop a lasting career that rewards motivated and dedicated individuals.

    Must understand & personify Beyond's Core Beliefs / Values

    Client Satisfaction - Listen and understands to the clients to meet the goal of always exceeding our clients expectations.

    Employee Happiness - Able to work well with others, communicate clearly with coworkers, promote a positive work environment and mediate conflicts between team members.

    Quality Work - Ability to take ownership, work independently, prioritize workload and deliver quality results on time and efficiently.

    Go Above and Beyond - versatility, flexibility, ability to anticipate the needs of the company, take the initiative and a willingness to go out of your way to assist others

    Job Duties

    The Geotechnical Laboratory Engineer/Geologist will be placed in a progressively increased role of training and responsibility and be required to maintain safety and quality standards on all work assignments. The Geotechnical Laboratory Engineer/Geologist s primary responsibility is to assist the Geotechnical Laboratory Manager to conduct geotechnical laboratory testing in a safe, accurate and efficient manner. This will include coordinating sample receiving, classification and characterization of soil properties; interpretation of assignment of laboratory tests; performing geotechnical laboratory testing (consolidation, swell, permeability, direct shear, unconfined compression, triaxial, CBR, etc.) in accordance with ASTM/TxDOT/Aashto/USCOE testing procedures/standards, calculation of laboratory testing; and data entry into proprietary software programs. Additional responsibilities include assisting the Geotechnical Laboratory Manager with: (a) lab equipment (b) maintenance/calibrations and (c) training log documentations, AMRL proficiencies and audits, the efficient and economical use of laboratory equipment and resources; review of test reports prior to submission; managing assigned laboratory personnel; and training technicians in the laboratory.

    Job Requirements
  • Bachelor s degree in Civil Engineering, Materials, Geology or related majors required.
  • Master s degree in Civil/Geotechnical Engineering preferred.
  • Knowledge/experience in ASTM/TxDOT/Aashto/USCOE geotechnical/material testing procedures preferred.
  • Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills to interact with fellow staff and clients.
  • Able to distinguish colors and shades of color for identification and analysis of soil/aggregate samples.
  • Ability to lift soil or aggregate samples as a routine part of the job.
  • Works in laboratory/warehouse environment as well as outside under varying weather conditions.
  • Entrepreneurial and motivated individual who understands the value in working toward success by delivering the highest quality of services to our clients.

    Benefits

    Beyond is committed to investing in talented employees because we recognize that healthy, happy employees provide the best path to sustaining a successful business. Beyond offers competitive salaries and benefits for full-time employees, including:
  • Competitive pay and bonus
  • 401k with matching
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday pay.
  • Medical, vision and dental insurance coverage.
  • Life insurance and long-term disability insurance coverage.
  • Tuition reimbursement for pre-approved education pursuits.

    Individuals must be authorized to legally work in the U.S. Candidates will go through background, driver s license, and drug tests.

    We look forward to hearing from you!

    Job Type: Full-time

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible schedule
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance
    Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • Overtime
    Supplemental pay types:
  • Signing bonus

    Education:
  • Bachelor's (Required)

    License/Certification:
  • Driver's License Location: Remote

    • Example 5

    **THIS Mudlogging JOB IS Located ON SITE; IT IS NOT Remote - Primarily IN Permian BASIN (NM & TX)**

    Do you love geology, rocks, the outdoors, and autonomous work? Join the Field Geo Services team!

    Field Geo Services is the premier wellsite geology team, with a great deal of activity and growth!

    Wellsite Geologists/ Mudloggers collect rock cuttings and monitor gas on active drilling rigs to create detailed well logs and provide geological information to clients and the drilling team about the well s status. Additionally, lab and field equipment is rigged up and maintained throughout assignments to provide high quality reports that become historical offsets for future drilling purposes.

    Required:

  • Minimum of Bachelor s or Master's Degree in Geology preferred
  • Minimum 2 years of Mudlogging Experience preferred
  • Computer and software aptitude, especially MS Office Suite, Excel
  • Basic mechanical skills and minimal electrical knowledge
  • Ability to work 2 to 3 week-long hitches, 12-hour shifts each day
  • Possess strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Valid driver s license is Required
  • Eligible to work in the United States is Required
  • Field worthy vehicle (high clearance, reliable, 4WD preferred)
  • Ability to pass pre-employment physical, urine analysis and breath alcohol test, as well as random drug screens throughout employment
  • Must be able to lift 50 lbs
  • Must be able to lift, squat, twist and bend, climb stairs

    Position Duties (included but not limited to):

  • You are the primary collector of data on the wellsite and must knowledgably incorporate gas readings, drilling parameters and lithology into analysis and reports
  • Collect mud samples, clean samples, analyze and record the cuttings for active drilling wells
  • Monitor and maintain gas detection systems (gas chomatograph or Mass spec)
  • Stay onsite in skid-mounted trailers with amenities (Furnished kitchen, laundry, bathroom, shared bedroom room/opposite shift occupancy)
  • Be an integral part of communication chain between wellsite activities and clients
  • Additional duties as assigned

    Salary: $45,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

    Full Time

    Job Type: Full-time

    Pay: $40,500.00 - $120,000.00 per year

    Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Referral program
  • Vision insurance
    Schedule:
  • 12 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Evening shift
  • Night shift
    Travel requirement:
  • Up to 100% travel



    Education:
  • Bachelor's (Preferred)

    Experience:
  • Geology: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Mudlogging: 1 year (Preferred)

    License/Certification:
  • Driver's License (Required)

    Shift availability:
  • Day Shift (Preferred)
  • Night Shift (Preferred)
  • Overnight Shift (Preferred)

    Willingness to travel:
  • 100% Location: On the road

    • What Does a Geologist Do?

    Geologists can work in a variety of industries including natural gas processing, mining, oil extraction, engineering, government and higher education where they do research and fieldwork to provide expert advice on how people can safely interact and use rock formations. They can work in a laboratory and on work sites where they collect and analyze data. Geologists use mapping software to create visual representations of the types of rock and other natural formations in a certain area, their stability and possible changes based on erosion. They compile information in databases and produce reports explaining possible risk factors of developing certain regions.

    Geologist Skills and Qualifications

    A successful Geologist will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications, including:

    • Communication: Verbal and written skills are important in a Geologist role. Geologists must communicate with other team members, both in a verbal and written method. Clear communication skills are necessary to transfer information.
    • Project management: Geologists are often involved in large research projects. Project management skills can help the Geologist organize each part and keep the project on its intended timeline.
    • Problem-solving: Geologists often conduct research to solve problems. Strongly developed problem-solving skills will help the Geologist interpret data and come to a solution.
    • Research: Many of the responsibilities of a Geologist requires research. Strong qualitative and quantitative research skills will help the Geologist organize, interpret and report research. The ability to read and apply previous research is also an important skill for those in Geologist roles.

    Geologist Salary Expectations

    The average yearly salary for a Geologist is $64,185 per year. Geologist salaries range depending on location and position. Geologists who work in a local city or state position may benefit from good benefits but have a lower pay rate due to tighter budgets. Geologists working in a government position may experience a higher pay rate but may be expected to lead a team or to travel more. More experience often translates to a higher pay scale. The normal tenure for a Geologist is between one and three years.

    Geologist Education and Training Requirements

    A bachelor’s degree is the minimum education requirement for a Geologist role. The bachelor’s degree should be in a related industry, including engineering, environmental science, mineralogy and earth science. Some Geologist positions will require a master’s degree.

    Many programs offer on-the-job training for Geologists. Additionally, an internship or fieldwork may be a part of an aspiring Geologists’ education. Certification in geology is offered in 31 of the U.S. states. While certification is not a requirement in all Geologist positions, Geologists who offer public services must hold a certification.

    Geologist Experience Requirements

    In addition to a bachelor’s degree, many Geologist employers require some field experience. Some employers may choose to hire a new graduate in geology and train in-house. Other employers may prefer a more experienced Geologist to conduct research and lead the team. The needs of the organization will dictate the level of experience a candidate needs.

    Are you ready to hire a geologist?

    Job Description Samples for Similar Positions

    If you are looking to fill a similar role that is not a geologist, then you might find one of these job description samples for relevant positions to be useful:

    Ready to Hire a Geologist?Build a Geologist Job Description

    Frequently asked questions about Geologists

    What is the difference between a Geologist and an Archeologist?

    Both Geologists and Archeologists study earth and its formations, but Geologists focus on accessing raw materials found in the earth and developing or conserving land, while Archeologists excavate sites in the earth to learn more about past civilizations and the history of how land forms developed. Geologists often work in a commercial capacity while Archeologists tend to work for academic, governmental or non-profit organizations. Archeologists work to preserve artifacts they find in the earth, locate historic sites and connect their findings to anthropological research. Geologists assess land and determine risks for the people living there.

    What makes a good Geologist?

    Good Geologists are highly educated in different types of geology in addition to engineering and environmental science. Because Geologists have to travel for work and have a range of different work sites they need to visit during a project, they should also be flexible and adaptable. They should enjoy working independently and investigating different topics through their own research. Successful Geologists are cautious and realistic, using their honest assessments to provide good advice to their clients and employers.

    What are the different types of Geologists?

    There are several specialties and branches of geology that Geologists can pursue. They can focus on studying specific types of rock and land formations or they can specialize in a particular category of land developments, resource collection and manufacturing. Some of the types of Geologist are: Engineering Geologist, Marine Geologist, Environmental Geologist, Planetary Geologist, Economic Geologist, Geomorphologist and Petroleum Geologist. Geologists can also use interdisciplinary science studies to become Geophysicists, Geohydrologists or Geochemists. Many Geologists develop expertise in a specific type of natural hazard and devote their careers to identifying and protecting areas where earthquakes, floods and landslides occur.

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