Senior Geologist

ZipRecruiter; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 62,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consulting firm is seeking a Professional Geologist in Birmingham to lead site assessments and manage environmental projects. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 10 years of experience alongside relevant certifications. This position involves regulatory compliance and technical reporting, requiring strong geological expertise and communication skills. A competitive salary and opportunities for professional development are offered.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years in environmental consulting or state/federal environmental regulatory work.
• Alabama Professional Geologist license (or ability to obtain via reciprocity).
• Professional Engineer registration in Alabama is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage environmental site assessments.
• Design and implement soil and groundwater sampling programs.
• Prepare technical reports and coordinate with regulatory agencies.

Skills

Proficiency in interpreting geologic formations and groundwater data

Strong technical writing

Data analysis

Knowledge of UST regulations

Communication skills

Education

BS or MS in Environmental Science, Geology, Hydrogeology, or related field

Job description

Overview

Thompson Engineering is looking for a motivated and experienced Professional Geologist (PG) to join our Environmental Business Unit. This role focuses on site assessments, remediation, groundwater investigations, and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate combines technical expertise with regulatory knowledge and a hands-on approach to solving complex environmental challenges.

This position is well-suited for a technical seller/doer who can manage projects, mentor junior staff, and contribute to business development.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage environmental site assessments (Phase I & II ESAs), UST closures, and site characterization projects in accordance with state and federal regulations.
• Design and implement soil and groundwater sampling programs; interpret geologic and hydrogeologic data.
• Oversee UST removals, upgrades, assessments, and prepare closure reports and corrective action plans.
• Manage federal environmental projects.
• Prepare technical reports, including geologic logs, cross-sections, contaminant transport models, and remediation summaries.
• Coordinate with regulatory agencies (e.g., ADEM, MDEQ, FDEP, LDEQ, TCEQ, EPA) to ensure compliance and facilitate approvals/closures.
• Evaluate and select remedial technologies (e.g., in-situ chemical oxidation, dual-phase extraction, biosparging).
• Manage subcontractors, field personnel, and drilling teams during fieldwork.
• Mentor junior geologists and field staff.
• Ensure health and safety compliance in field operations (HAZWOPER 40-hour certification required).
• Support business development through proposals, scopes of work, and client communications.

Essential Functions

• Ensure all scientific/engineering work adheres to professional standards and good scientific practice.
• Lead project planning, preliminary design studies, and layouts.
• Consult with clients and stakeholders to determine practical, cost-effective solutions.
• Select suitable materials, equipment, and methods in accordance with SOPs.
• Prepare cost estimates, schedules, and specifications.
• Produce clear, concise technical reports that meet applicable codes and regulations.
• Organize and direct the work of others to optimize resources and budgets.
• Supervise, check, and assume responsibility for assigned project work.
• Coordinate across disciplines (engineering, architecture, estimating, purchasing, etc.).
• Deliver projects on schedule and within budget.
• Prepare Phase I & II proposals, plans, and reports; conduct stormwater compliance inspections (NPDES, SWPPPs, SPCC Plans).
• Perform or oversee field sampling and supervise technicians and junior staff.
• Support marketing and business development, including project write-ups and resume updates.
• Follow company policies, procedures, and safety requirements.

Other Responsibilities

• Participate in professional societies and industry activities.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

• Education: BS or MS in Environmental Science, Geology, Hydrogeology, or related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years in environmental consulting or state/federal environmental regulatory work.
• Professional Credentials:
  • Alabama Professional Geologist license (or ability to obtain via reciprocity).
  • Professional Engineer registration in Alabama is a plus.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in interpreting geologic formations and groundwater data.
  • Knowledge of UST regulations, RCRA, CERCLA, NPDES permitting, and the Clean Water Act.
  • Strong technical writing, data analysis, and communication skills.
• Other: Valid driver's license; willingness to travel to project sites.

Physical Requirements

• Willingness to work flexible schedules and overtime as needed.
• Ability to operate a computer and sit for extended periods.
• Ability to bend, crawl, and perform inspections/sampling over varied terrain.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.