Principal Hydrogeologist

Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc.; Johnson City (TN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Matching 401(k) and profit sharing

Performance bonus and company stock

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Tuition assistance

Work-life balance initiatives

Job summary

Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. (CEC) is hiring a Principal Hydrogeologist in Johnson City, TN. This role involves leading teams for groundwater compliance, mentoring staff, and managing client relationships.

The ideal candidate will have a strong educational background in geology or a related field, possess PG/PE licensure in TN, and have experience in project management and data analysis. Enjoy the vibrant community of Johnson City, all while working in a position that offers a variety of benefits, including a matching 401(k) and profit sharing.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in groundwater compliance monitoring.
• Ability to lead project teams and manage budgets.
• Current OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER training preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee field efforts and data analysis for compliance.
• Mentor early-career staff in project performance.
• Manage client relationships and lead proposal efforts.

Skills

Leadership in groundwater compliance

Geochemical data interpretation

Project management

Team mentoring

Knowledge of groundwater regulations

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Geology or related field

PG/PE licensure in TN

Tools

Statistical Analysis software

Data management systems

Job description

Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. (CEC) is growing and we have an excellent opportunity for a Principal Hydrogeologist in our Johnson City office. As a Principal with CEC, you will lead teams focused on groundwater and surface water compliance and permitting for solid waste, industrial waste, and coal combustion residual (CCR) landfills. You will be responsible for managing and mentoring project teams, developing new business, managing existing client relationships, and providing senior technical guidance for a variety of detection, assessment, and corrective measures programs consistent with local, state and federal requirements.

Our Johnson City office sits in the heart of Northeast Tennessee, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. With easy access to hiking, lakes, and scenic drives, plus a growing downtown and vibrant community culture, Johnson City offers a high quality of life and a welcoming environment for professionals looking to live and grow in a small‑city setting.

Responsibilities

• Oversee teams to ensure field efforts, data analysis, and reporting activities are consistent with site‑specific plans and local, state, and federal regulations.
• Mentor, guide, and motivate early‑career staff assigned in the areas of project performance, cost, schedule management, client expectations and career development.
• Task and project management, including developing, planning, and implementing compliance monitoring programs, budget development and management, and adherence to schedule, quality, safety, client satisfaction, and profitability.
• Direct geochemical evaluations of groundwater and surface water quality data, including interpretation of analytical data and contaminant fate and transport.
• Oversee groundwater compliance evaluations, including Alternate Source Demonstrations and statistical analyses, to confirm compliance with applicable regulations.
• Lead meetings with clients, regulatory personnel, and other parties.
• Lead proposal efforts and other business development activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Geology, Hydrogeology, Geochemistry, Environmental Engineering, or related field (Masters preferred).
• PG/PE licensure in TN required, with the ability to obtain licensure in AL and GA.
• Demonstrated experience leading a team of field and administrative personnel, technical staff, and project managers focused on groundwater compliance monitoring programs, hydrogeologic investigations, and permitting, with annual revenue of $2M+.
• Knowledge of general and organic chemistry and geochemistry with the ability to interpret groundwater analytical data (e.g., major ions, trace metals, dissolved gases, and organic constituents) to accurately delineate geochemical conditions, redox zonation, and biodegradation pathways.
• Proficiency in integrating geochemical data with hydrogeologic data to support remedial decision‑making.
• Competence and aptitude for sound data management practices related to long‑term compliance monitoring programs.
• Working knowledge of applicable groundwater compliance program regulations (TN, AL, GA preferred) as well as USEPA guidance Statistical Analysis of Groundwater Quality Data (Unified Guidance) and groundwater compliance methodologies.
• Demonstrated experience managing multiple projects, including budgeting, scheduling, and cost control.
• Extensive experience preparing and submitting regulatory documentation and technical reports.
• Established relationships with applicable state (TN, AL, GA preferred) and federal regulatory agencies.
• Current OSHA 40‑hour HAZWOPER training a plus.
• Valid driver’s license with a driving record in good standing.

Benefits

• Matching 401(k) and profit sharing.
• Performance bonus and company stock.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Short‑term and long‑term disability insurance.
• Tuition assistance and professional development.
• Work‑life balance initiatives.

CEC is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in recruiting, hiring or promotion based on race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, transgender status), national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis or characteristic prohibited by applicable federal, state, or local law.