JOB TITLE: GEOSCIENTIST

JOB CODE: 14921

SERIES NATURE OF WORK: The geology series describes professional work in the application of geologic principles in support of agency specific programs.

DEFINITION: This is journey level professional work in the field of geology conducting studies and investigations involving the physical structure of the earth to solve geologic problems and develop natural resources.

An employee in this job studies, investigates, and plots the development of viable natural geologic systems and resources such as oil, gas, minerals, soil, water, and other energy resources. Work involves characterizing, mapping, and interpreting data associated with regional geology; the quality and quantity of groundwater and its flow paths; coal, coal bed methane, natural gas, and petroleum bearing rock; metallic and non-metallic minerals; sinkholes and landslides; and naturally occurring elements. Work also involves reviewing and evaluating permit applications, plans, and reports; and participating in the design or review of subsurface projects to remediate contaminated industrial sites, reclaim mine sites, or construct flood protection structures and structure foundations. Work may involve leading lower level staff in site inspections and investigations and providing training on basic geologic principles and sample collection techniques. Work is assigned in the form of individual projects and investigations and is reviewed by a professional supervisor for technical accuracy, completeness, overall quality, and attainment of objectives.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (NOTE: The examples of work are representative of the work, but every position classified to this job may not perform all examples of work listed. Conversely, this is not an all-inclusive list of work examples.)

• Analyzes and evaluates permit applications; work plans; or reports involving land recycling, multi-site cleanup agreements, and municipal, residual, and hazardous waste management.

• Gathers, analyzes, and interprets geologic data for the purpose of understanding the geology and geologic resources of Pennsylvania.

• Creates and interprets geologic maps and reports, hazard maps, energy resource maps, schematic and written stratigraphic sections, aerial photographs, cross sections, and other remote sensing images and geologic descriptions using GIS, databases, and other methods.

• Analyzes and evaluates storage tank regulation and cleanup and nonpoint source management.

• Analyzes and evaluates oil and gas management, exploration, and development proposals.

• Analyzes and evaluates the surface and underground mining operations of coal and industrial minerals.

• Collects, interprets, and evaluates subsurface geologic and hydrogeologic data.

• Participates in the design of components of waterways engineering projects involving surface and subsurface geologic studies.

• Participates in the design of mine reclamation projects involving mine drainage pollution treatment and abatement, underground mine fires, subsidence control, and exploratory drilling.

• Conducts field inspections to determine the compliance status of a permitted facility and recommends appropriate enforcement action as needed.

• Provides geologic assistance to maintenance and construction projects on state forest, park, and game lands.

• Conducts subsurface investigation testing and nuclear density testing activities for Transportation Engineering Districts.

• Performs geologic analyses for highway and bridge foundation recommendations.

• Performs material testing functions to determine material acceptability and probable field performance for the petrographic analyses of aggregate, rock, and soil, and for insoluble residue tests.

• Meets with agency technical staff, public officials, private landowners, facility operators, and industry representatives to discuss hydrogeologic problems and issues, to seek consensus and cooperation in the data collection process, and to explain departmental rules and regulations.

• Operates motor vehicles.

• Performs related work as required.

ENTRY LEVEL KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of the principles of geological sciences, including general and historical geology, hydrogeology, geophysics, geochemistry, engineering geology, mineralogy, field geology, structural geology, petrology, geomorphology, paleontology, sedimentology, and stratigraphy.

• Knowledge of applicable laws, rules, regulations, and procedures impacting geologic functions and programs.

• Knowledge of mathematics, statistics, chemistry, and physics as they apply to the interpretation and utilization of geologic data.

• Knowledge of the use of geospatial or geographic information systems (GIS) and database software.

• Knowledge of the use and functionality of Microsoft Office Suite software.

• Ability to interpret topographic maps, aerial photographs, remote sensing images, and geologic maps.

• Ability to prepare geologic maps and reports resulting from field and laboratory investigations.

• Ability to apply critical thinking skills to identify and resolve problems.

• Ability to analyze written and numerical information.

• Ability to communicate effectively orally.

• Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: (NOTE: Based on the Entry Level Knowledges, Skills, and Abilities)

• One year as a Geoscience Trainee (commonwealth title);

or

• One year of professional geology experience, and a bachelor's degree in geology, hydrogeology, geoscience, geophysics, geochemistry, engineering geology, or a closely related field that includes 30 college credits in geologic coursework;

or

• Possession of an active Geologist-in-Training certificate issued by or acceptable to the Pennsylvania State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists, and one year of professional experience in geologic work;

or

• An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes 30 college credits in geologic coursework.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• All positions require possession of an active Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C driver’s license or equivalent.