JOB TITLE: GEOSCIENCE TRAINEE

JOB CODE: 14900

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 specialized trainee work in the field of geology.

An employee in this job participates in formal and on-the-job training to develop the necessary skills and experience to perform geologic work. Work is focused on developing technical skills in the study, charting, preservation, utilization, development, or protection of geologic features or mineral resources such as groundwater, natural gas, coal, and oil. Assignments are designed to provide experience in the practical application of the theories and principles of geology. Assignments are initially limited in scope and complexity but become increasingly difficult as technical proficiency is attained. Work is reviewed by a professional supervisor for completeness, accuracy, quality, application of accepted geologic principles and standards, and professional development.

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.)

• Participates in the performance of geologic field mapping, engineering geology investigations, mineral resource investigations, groundwater studies, or oil and gas studies.

• Collects data on problems concerning mineral resources or environmental protection.

• Assists in the collection, compilation, and interpretation of geologic data in conjunction with site examinations relative to the development, conservation, or utilization of mineral deposits.

• Assists with preparing geologic maps and subsurface geologic structure maps, isopach maps, stratigraphic sections, and descriptions of surface and subsurface rocks.

• Contributes to the development of site specific or area wide exploratory drilling contracts for mine subsidence control projects, groundwater investigations, and geotechnical investigations.

• Assists in microscopic and megascopic examinations to determine the characteristics of rocks and minerals.

• Participates in the review and evaluation of permit applications, work plans, and reports involving municipal, residual, and hazardous waste management; land recycling; multi-site cleanup agreements; storage tank regulation and cleanup; drinking water supplies; nonpoint source management; subsurface discharges to ground water; surface and underground mining of coal and industrial minerals; or the extraction and storage of oil and natural gas.

• Contributes to the design of components of waterways engineering projects involving surface and subsurface foundation studies.

• Assists in the design of mine reclamation projects involving mine drainage, underground mine fires, subsidence control, and exploratory drilling by providing geotechnical advice.

• Collects maintains, and evaluates geologic data and samples of rocks, minerals, and water, and presents data in graphic and narrative form.

• Identifies and evaluates rock and mineral specimens by use of standard geologic equipment and techniques.

• Analyzes and interprets geologic data, aerial photographs, geologic and hydrogeologic maps, and other remote sensing images.

• Operates motor vehicles.

• Performs related work as required.

ENTRY LEVEL KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

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

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

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

• 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)

• A bachelor's degree in geology, geophysics, geochemistry, engineering geology, or a closely related field including or supplemented by 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;

or

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

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

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