Geologist

Vertex; Houston (TX); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

401(k) with matching

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Vertex is seeking a Geologist to perform Phase I Environmental Site Assessments and Phase II subsurface investigations across the region, with frequent travel in the Houston area. Responsibilities include site reconnaissance, drilling oversight, and producing high-quality client reports.

Qualified candidates have a geology degree (or higher) and experience in ASTM ESAs, with strong project management, communication, and writing skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a geology-related field.
• Experience with ASTM Phase I ESAs and Phase II investigations preferred.
• Strong organizational and project management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Conduct Phase I ESAs and Phase II subsurface investigations per regulations.
• Oversee drilling, sampling, and subcontractor coordination.
• Prepare client-facing technical reports with findings and recommendations.
• Develop proposals, scopes of work, and cost estimates for projects.
• Support remediation programs and field services as needed.

Skills

Project management

Technical writing

Communication skills

Field leadership

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Geology or related field

Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in geology or related field

5+ years of related experience in lieu of degree

Tools

AutoCAD

GIS

Microsoft Office

Job description

Description

Company Description

The Vertex Companies, LLC (Vertex) is a $180M global consulting firm that integrates strategic advisory, project management, and dispute resolution services for organizations facing complex challenges in a world of risk. We embody our core values of embracing lifelong learning, operating with urgency, maximizing value, and driving collaboration to better outcomes for our clients, colleagues, and communities. Join us if you are looking for a career that offers you a chance to love what you do and deliver meaningful impact.

Job Description

The Geologist will conduct Phase 1 and Phase II Assessments for our clients. Frequent travel to our client's project locations across the region is required. This role will require frequent travel in the Houston TX area.

Core Responsibilities

Work Product Creation, Project Management, Coordination with Team Members

• Conduct Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) and Phase II Subsurface Investigations in accordance with applicable regulatory and industry standards.
• Perform site reconnaissance and field evaluations for Phase I ESAs, Phase II investigations, and related environmental due diligence assignments.
• Oversee environmental drilling and sampling activities, including subcontractor coordination, soil logging, groundwater sampling, field documentation, and communication with project stakeholders.
• Prepare high-quality, client-facing technical reports, including environmental assessment findings, analytical data summaries, figures, tables, and recommendations.
• Develop proposals, scopes of work, and cost estimates for environmental assessment, investigation, and remediation projects.
• Support contaminated site characterization and remediation programs through field implementation, data evaluation, and reporting.
• Perform construction observation and related environmental field services, as required.

Operations

• Coordinate project activities with senior managers to ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently, on schedule, and within budget.
• Assist in monitoring project milestones, budgets, schedules, and other key performance indicators.
• Support the selection, coordination, and management of project team members, subcontractors, and specialty consultants.
• Prepare and implement site-specific Health and Safety Plans (HASPs) and Job Safety Analyses (JSAs) to maintain regulatory compliance and safe work practices.
• Maintain effective communication with clients, project teams, subcontractors, and regulatory stakeholders throughout project execution.
• Manage multiple assignments simultaneously while maintaining quality standards and meeting established deadlines.
• Participate in frequent travel and field assignments to support project execution across various geographic locations.

Qualifications & Competencies

• Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 2 years of related experience; or an advanced degree without experience; or 5 years of related work experience and no degree.
• Demonstrated experience conducting ASTM Phase I Environmental Site Assessments and Phase II subsurface investigations.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proven ability to work independently in the field and collaboratively within multidisciplinary project teams.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to technical accuracy, quality, and client service.
• Ability and willingness to travel frequently for field assignments; valid driver's license required.

Knowledge & Skills

• Working knowledge of ASTM environmental assessment standards and industry best practices.
• Understanding of environmental site characterization, contaminated site investigation, and remediation principles.
• Strong technical writing and documentation skills, including preparation of environmental reports and deliverables.
• Experience with environmental sampling methodologies, soil logging, groundwater monitoring, and data interpretation.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook).
• Familiarity with AutoCAD, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), or similar technical software is preferred.
• Knowledge of environmental health and safety protocols, including development and implementation of HASPs and JSAs.
• Ability to analyze technical data and present findings clearly to clients and project stakeholders.

Additional Information

• At Vertex, we invest in top talent with a highly competitive total compensation package that rewards performance and supports long-term success.
• Total compensation includes a base salary and a discretionary variable bonus program, depending on your level.
• Our comprehensive benefits package offers multiple healthcare and dental plan options, as well as company-paid Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability coverage—ensuring peace of mind for you and your family.
• We offer a 401(k) plan with immediate matching and full vesting, empowering employees to build financial security from day one.
• Additional benefits include Flexible Spending Accounts, a robust Employee Assistance Program, and a suite of exclusive perks that enhance everyday life.
• Time away matters—so we provide a generous paid time off program, including vacation, sick time, and paid holidays (with prorated options for eligible part-time employees).
• At Vertex, growth never stops.
• Our signature “Lifetime of Learning” program offers tuition reimbursement and personalized support for employees pursuing advanced education—helping you sharpen your skills and accelerate your career.