Geologist 12 / Geology Specialist 13

About the role

This posting is for one position that may be filled at either the Geologist 12 or Geology Specialist 13 level, depending on the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate. The position resides within the Underground Injection, Storage, and Carbon Management Section (UISCM) and serves as the primary point of contact for UIC and UNGS activities in either the Lansing or Gaylord District, based on the selected candidate’s residence or proximity.

The description below reflects the duties and responsibilities of the Geology Specialist 13 classification. The Specialist is responsible for district implementation, technical oversight, and compliance activities associated with the Class II Underground Injection Control (UIC) Program and the Underground Natural Gas Storage (UNGS) Safety Program, and provides technical reviews for other UIC well classes/projects.

This role requires advanced knowledge of state and federal regulations, as well as industry-recommended best practices for UIC and UNGS operations. The Specialist ensures compliance with all applicable requirements, initiates enforcement actions when necessary, and acts as the district point of contact for UIC activities under Part 615 (Supervisor of Wells) and Part 625 (Mineral Wells) of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (1994 PA 451, as amended), along with any future UIC-related statutes.

The position also serves as the district liaison for the UNGS program, coordinating with the Federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC), and staff from the GRMD’s Underground Injection, Storage, and Carbon Management Section (UISCM) to ensure effective scheduling, permitting, inspection, and well integrity oversight.

This position may be located in any district offices within the GRMD Lansing or Gaylord District coverage area.

Responsibilities

• Administrative rule comprehension with respect to oil and gas wells, injection wells, production facilities, Mechanical Integrity Tests (MIT), well testing, injection well reporting, and remedial actions.
• Interpretation of Supervisor of Wells Orders, Special Orders, and Instructions.
• Maintaining literature and computer data files.
• Enforcement of applicable statutes and rules.
• Providing information to individuals and constituent groups.
• Serving on inter- and intra-agency committees.
• Evaluating and preparing technical reports.
• Conducting on-site inspections of oil, gas, and mineral wells.
• Serving as liaison for cooperation with PHMSA and Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) staff.
• Coordinating with the GRMD Gas Storage and Underground Injection Storage Carbon Management Section (UISCM).

Requirements

Possession of a bachelor's degree in geology, or in geological, petroleum, mining, engineering, or earth science.

Four years of professional experience equivalent to a Geologist, including two years equivalent to a Geologist P11 or one year equivalent to a Geologist 12.

About the organization

The Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy's mission is to protect Michigan’s environment and public health by managing air, water, land, and energy resources. The department is committed to creating a positive, professional, and supportive work environment that values differences and fosters respect among employees and the public.

Benefits

The State of Michigan offers a competitive benefits package for all career employees, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid parental leave
• Flexible spending accounts
• Retirement benefits

More details can be found at State of Michigan – Employee Benefits.