GEOLOGIST 53121

2/16/90 B

This is the first class in the professional Geologist series. Positions in this class conduct geologic and hydrologic tests by gathering and interpreting geologic, hydrologic, environmental, and mineral resource data through field investigations and laboratory work to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations and standards, to produce detailed geological reports and maps, to evaluate the availability of water and geologic energy and mineral resources, and to investigate and remediate water pollution. This class is distinguished from the Geologist Senior class by the latter's responsibility for performing more complex work assignments and for serving in a lead worker capacity over professional positions.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of moderate difficulty involving independent judgment in on-site and laboratory investigations. The work typically involves conducting field studies to collect and compile geologic data in order to determine geologic and economic potential of mineral resources, managing current resources, identifying potential problems, developing geologic maps, and reviewing and evaluating corrective action plans and recommending appropriate clean-up levels. Examples of field work include drilling, soil exploration, materials analysis such as depths and load-bearing qualities, highway and bridge support, and soil consistency. Operates a geophysical logger at research sites to obtain geophysical or well construction characteristics. Writes technical reports based on data collected at research stations. Conducts site inspections to prevent or remediate groundwater contamination. Monitors storage sites to ensure compliance with state Underground Storage Tank (UST) regulations; and provides technical assistance and training to local officials involved in UST installation and closure inspections to ensure compliance with established UST standards and regulations. Compiles oil and gas data in order to provide a fuels data base.

Supervision Given: Supervision is typically not a factor; however, some positions may provide work direction to a drilling crew or technical support positions.

Supervision Received: Receives general supervision from a Geologist Supervisor, Geologist Senior, or an environmental manager.

Scope: Work affects the state's economic growth, water supply safety, and the safety of public and natural resources related to geologic work.

Impact of Actions: Work has a moderate impact on public safety, economic growth, and protection of the environment and natural resources. Accurate information provided through geographic mapping facilitates the location of construction projects, new industry, and mining or drilling for natural resources.

Personal Contacts: Frequent internal and external contacts with the general public, contractors, utility companies, UST owners, local building and fire officials, federal and state agencies, and waste management personnel to provide information regarding the location of mineral resources, government requirements, and advice on geologic structures.

Knowledge: Working knowledge of basic geologic and hydrogeologic principles, groundwater investigation principles, well construction methods, geophysical logging procedures, and underground storage tank technology. Working knowledge of laboratory and field equipment used in geologic studies.

Skills: None identified for this class.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to apply geologic principles in the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data; to perform field sampling and laboratory techniques; to express scientific ideas effectively both orally and in writing; to interpret regulations and standards; and to supervise technical personnel.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: None.

Education or Training: Graduation from an accredited college or university with course work in geology, hydrogeology, or a related physical science.

Level and Type of Experience: Some experience performing geologic or hydrogeologic work related to government, academic institution, or petroleum or mineral industry activities. Experience in the preparation of technical reports.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class replaced the Geologist A class as a result of the statewide Classification Review/Specification Update Program. It was established in February, 1990.