Senior Geologist

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee geologic and geotechnical field investigations for major transportation and public infrastructure projects, including drilling, sampling, logging, test pits, geologic mapping, field reconnaissance, and related field activities.

• Conduct geologic assessments, interpret subsurface data, and evaluate geologic conditions using field observations, geologic maps, aerial imagery, laboratory results, published data, and historical project information.

• Prepare, review, and validate technical work products, including reports, geotechnical investigation work plans, sampling plans, boring logs, geologic cross sections, subsurface profiles, geologic studies, and geologic hazard assessments.

• Serve as a technical leader in geologic site characterization, geologic hazard evaluation, and mitigation planning for transportation infrastructure and public works projects.

• Evaluate geologic and seismic hazards, including landslides, slope instability, faulting, liquefaction, lateral spreading, settlement, erosion, and difficult ground conditions.

• Manage multiple concurrent projects while supporting technical quality, budget, and schedule compliance.

• Oversee field operations for adherence to work plans, safety protocols, and applicable regulatory requirements.

• Coordinate drilling contractors, field staff, laboratories, subconsultants, senior engineers, project managers, and client representatives during field investigations and construction support activities.

• Provide real-time field problem-solving and technical input when conditions differ from anticipated subsurface or construction conditions.

• Manage and mentor supporting staff geologists and field technicians.

Required Qualifications

• Degree in Geology

• California Professional Geologist (PG) registration.

• Certified Engineering Geologist (CEG) registration.

• 10 - 15 years of relevant professional experience in geotechnical consulting and site investigation work.

• Experience with management of field investigations and subcontractor coordination.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with experience writing technical reports and project proposals.

• Experience with soil sampling, drilling, logging, and conducting field inspections for construction support.

• Ability to travel up to 70% of the time, including overnight, weekend, and extended field assignments, as required to support field investigations and project needs.

• Able to problem solve in real time when dealing with field investigations and construction support issues.

• Strong organizational and time management skills to manage multiple, concurrent projects.

• Valid U.S. driver’s license required for fieldwork and inter-office travel.

• Authorization to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Caltrans, local agency, or other public infrastructure projects in California.

• Experience leading geotechnical investigations for bridges, roadways, rail and transit facilities, retaining structures, slopes, flood control facilities, or other infrastructure projects.

• Knowledge of California geology, geomorphology, seismic hazards, and geologic hazard assessment methods.

• Familiarity with geologic logging, field mapping, GIS, gINT, RSLog, and Microsoft Office applications.

• Experience supporting proposal preparation, scope development, field work plans, and cost estimates.

Compensation & Benefits

• Earth Mechanics, Inc. offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits program, including:

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.

• 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution and profit-sharing.

• Paid time off and holidays.

• Professional development support, including training, mentoring, and licensure assistance.

• A supportive, team-oriented environment that fosters technical development, collaboration, and long-term career growth.