What are the responsibilities and job description for the Groundwater Characterization Geologist position at Virginia Department of Environmental Quality?
The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, Office of Water Supply Planning is seeking a qualified candidate to gather and analyze data to understand the availability, quantity, and quality of groundwater in Virginia.
Core Responsibilities
- Collect groundwater-level and groundwater-quality data from DEQ’s statewide network of 290 monitoring wells, in accordance with established schedules and operating procedures.
- Processes data collected in the field, enters data into DEQ and USGS database systems, and reviews data entered by other staff.
- Procure, install, operate, and maintain monitoring equipment, including data collection platform (DCP) logger/transmitters, pressure transducers, encoders, antennas, and solar collection power systems.
- Safely operate power tools and groundskeeping equipment to maintain well sites in working condition.
- Operate global positioning system (GPS) and surveying equipment to collect precise position and elevation data.
- Manage geospatial data with geographic information systems (GIS). Organizes electronic records and physical inventory.
- Document the occurrence of groundwater-level declines, well interference, or aquifer depletion, to enable DEQ to address potential problems through management practices.
- Communicate effectively with landowners, permittees, contractors, other stakeholders, and interagency partners.
- Provide project oversight and management for drilling, installation, testing, and abandonment of deep wells (300 feet).
- Assist in the collection of hydrogeological data from mud-rotary drill cuttings, wireline/rotosonic cores, and geophysical logging, primarily in the Coastal Plain of Virginia, including on the Eastern Shore.
Minimum Qualifications
• Knowledge of Virginia hydrogeology.
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a dynamic team setting.
• Valid Virginia driver's license and ability to operate vehicles in the field.
• Collecting water-level measurements and groundwater samples, including from wells deeper than 300 feet.
• Analyzing groundwater data with statistical methods.
• Operating and repairing powered equipment and scientific instruments.
• Collecting hydrogeological data from well cuttings, cores, geophysical logs, and aquifer tests, including from wells deeper than 300 feet.
• Groundwater observation/production well drilling techniques and well construction, including for wells deeper than 300 feet.
• Collection and management of scientific field data with geographic information system (GIS) and/or related software, including mobile platforms and applications.
Individuals desiring to be considered for this position must submit a completed employment application online before the June 6th, 2024 11:55 PM. Applications received after the closing date will not be considered. Applicants are encouraged to be specific regarding job-related knowledge, skills, and abilities. Applications submitted via postal mail, email, or fax will not be considered.
EEO/AA
DEQ is an equal opportunity employer by both policy and practice. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive work environment with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. All applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information, or against otherwise qualified persons with disabilities. It is DEQ’s intent that its employment and personnel policies and practices conform to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding nondiscrimination. DEQ will provide if requested, reasonable accommodation to applicants in need of accommodation in order to provide access to the application and/or interview process. If any assistance is needed, please contact DEQ Human Resources Office at 804-698-4000.