Geologist I

About the role

HGL has an opening for a Geologist I based in the Reston, Virginia office. This position supports U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and National Aeronautics and Space Administration environmental projects in Virginia and throughout the Northeast. Projects involve the investigation, sampling, and remediation of sites with groundwater and soil contamination. Approximately 50% fieldwork is required, including local and out-of-state sites with overnight travel.

Responsibilities

• Ensure field operations are conducted safely in accordance with project-specific Site Safety and Health Plans / Health and Safety Plans.
• Participate in field teams for collection of water, soil, soil vapor, surface water, and sediment samples using various sampling techniques.
• Perform field subcontractor oversight, including drilling, monitoring well construction, and waste transportation and disposal.
• Contribute to the preparation of work plans and project deliverables (e.g., UFP-QAPPs, RI Reports, SSHP/HASPs, PowerPoint presentations, and technical memoranda).
• Assist with data entry, analysis, and interpretation of environmental data using statistical and visualization tools.
• Potentially assist with remedial system operations and maintenance services.
• Travel up to 50% within the U.S., primarily in the Eastern U.S.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Hydrogeology, Geophysics, Geological/Geotechnical Engineering, or a related field.
• Ability to work within a team environment.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and organization.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and other applications).
• Possess or have the ability to obtain OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER certification upon employment.
• Ability to work in various levels of PPE, including a respirator if required.

Qualifications (Preferred)

• Master’s degree in Geology, Hydrogeology, Geophysics, Geological/Geotechnical Engineering, or a related field.
• Previous experience with environmental investigations, including groundwater, soil, and surface water/sediment methodologies.
• Experience with monitoring well drilling, logging, installation, and sampling; developing boring logs; and review/interpretation of geological boring logs.
• Prior experience contributing to the preparation of technical reports, memoranda, and work plans.
• Knowledge and experience with CERCLA, DoD, DOE, EPA, and/or RCRA projects.
• PFAS sampling or remediation experience.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Ability to lift/move/relocate items up to 50 lbs.
• Prolonged sitting and standing (up to 70% of the time).
• Walking long distances and over uneven or mountainous terrain.
• Repetitive hand motions (typing, tool use, etc.).
• Ability to see details at close range and at a distance.
• Viewing computer screens for extended periods.
• Ability to interpret and analyze visual data (maps, graphs, warning indicators, etc.).
• Driving a company or personal vehicle.
• Climbing ladders or stairs.
• Analyzing and synthesizing data.
• Reading and interpreting technical documents or regulations.
• Writing reports, proposals, or technical documentation.
• Leading a team or coordinating multiple priorities.
• Communicating effectively with clients, team members, and stakeholders.
• Ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, snow, etc.).
• Potential exposure to loud noises, dust, or hazardous materials.
• Must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Office work environment.
• Potential for longer workdays up to 12 hours in duration.

Schedule

HGL office work follows a 5-day work week; however, fieldwork schedules may deviate based on job requirements and may include longer hours and weekends. This position requires up to 50% travel, primarily within the Eastern U.S.

Pay

The annual salary for this position ranges from $50,035 to $70,049. The final salary may be impacted by factors such as contractual requirements, geographic location, education, training, experience, and skills.

About HGL

HGL is dedicated to restoring natural resources and providing ongoing environmental stewardship for present and future generations. The company tackles complex environmental challenges, including emerging contaminants (e.g., PFAS), radiological contamination, military munitions, and chemical contamination in groundwater, surface water, sediments, and soil. With over 550 employees, HGL executes high-profile projects across the U.S. and its territories while fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.

HGL invests in its employees through mentoring, training, education, and support for certifications and licenses. The company is an Equal Opportunity employer and encourages the responsible use of AI-enabled and digital technologies to improve productivity and project delivery.