Engineering Geologist Job Description
Engineering geologists are the concern persons who supervise the engineering geology performance, carry out technical analysis of earth and its materials and evaluate the risks of geological hazards. One of the major engineering geologist responsibilities is to ensure that the hazardous geological factors are identified before starting with any engineering project at a specified site, as they may affect the work.
These professionals are also involved with designing and analyzing sites that are environmentally sensitive. This may include landfill sites. They monitor the development site and analyze ground conditions in order to ensure that the structures will be secure for short as well as long term.
Their job purpose is to assist manager and project engineers by providing design, analysis and construction services for water resources, geo-technical and mining projects. They need to be proficient to demonstrate their coursework and experience with emphasis in rock mechanics and geology field.
An engineering geologist has to perform variety of tasks such as reviewing the schedules and plans that confirm to particular ordinances which deal with soil stability and earth. They have to perform tasks as a superior officer and should have knowledge of grading methods and techniques along with soil mechanics.
Key Responsibilities of an Engineering Geologist
Engineering geologists assess the integrity of groundwater, rock, soil and other natural conditions before the construction of major projects. They can also advise on processes required for such suitability and developments and requirement of suitable construction materials. Their key responsibilities involve:
- Assisting in preparing reports
- Carrying out investigations in the geological field on a broad range of private and public projects which involve studies of landslides, seismic evaluations and subsurface soil, water and rock conditions in dams, treatment facilities of water and waste water, transportation projects, buildings and remedial actions
- They need to design, supervise and perform geo-environmental as well as geotechnical analysis along with getting involved in construction engineering services. They deal with the management of geo-environmental and geotechnical projects which include preparation of schedules, scope and budgets.
- An engineering geologist has to conduct engineering calculations, assign laboratory programs, assist in preparing documents associated with construction which involves specifications, plans and cost estimates including calculations of material quantity
- They have collate the laboratory and field report, estimated and published in a geo-technical report
- Conduct geologic mapping on the basis of field investigations, analyze slope stability, sampling and geo-technical drilling
- Grading and preparing building plans along with the budgets and estimated complete compliance with engineering and geological requirements
- Performs field work including sampling, logging, drilling trenches and holes, structural and geological mapping, observation and installation of down-hole instrumentation, interpretation and specifications of construction drawings, construction documentation, construction oversight and other services related to construction-support.
- Field work is performed in all seasons as per the region; this involves the use and knowledge of boats, four wheelers, snow machines, and traveling by helicopter or small planes
- Report is prepared on the basis of geotechnical recommendations which are calculated by considering successful construction, design and maintenance of airports, roads and other structures in engineering
- Engineering geologist responsibilities and duties generally involve synchronized work on several projects
Required Specifications and Skills for Engineering Geologist
There are certain specifications and skills that are required:
- The person should understand geological requirements in addition to grading
- The person should be capable to learn the laws and policies required in governing soil
- Reading and understanding geologic and grading plans is essential
- The person needs to prepare reports on the basis of the estimated, calculated and reviewed data
- They should be ready to deal with the collaboration with property owners developers, contractors and engineers
- Needs to be capable enough to deal with all the mandatory laboratory and field tasks effectively by considering all the factors
- Supervision on site and other staff in the laboratory and field; reviewing the data carefully is a part of their job responsibility
- The person should possess exceptional interpersonal skills in order to form a harmonious and effective work relationship
- They have to be a representative in the Commission meetings and department at boards
In order to qualify for the post of an engineering geologist, a person needs to get registered as licensed and professional engineering geologist. He or she should have enough of experience in the same field. Engineering geologist responsibilities are tough to manage and require technical knowledge along with the knowledge of a related field.
