Geologist I

HGL currently has a position open for a Geologist I based in our Overland Park, KS office. This role supports U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Air Force, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers environmental projects primarily in the Central U.S. region. Projects involve investigation and remediation of sites impacted by metals, emerging contaminants (PFAS), chlorinated solvents, and petroleum compounds in sediment, groundwater, surface water, air, and soil.

Responsibilities

• Ensure field operations are conducted safely in accordance with project-specific Site Safety and Health Plans/Health and Safety Plans.
• Participate as a member of field teams to collect water, soil, soil vapor, surface water, and sediment samples using various sampling techniques.
• Perform/conduct field subcontractor oversight in accordance with work plans, including drilling, monitoring well construction, waste transportation and disposal, and heavy equipment operation.
• 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.
• Utilize approved digital and AI-assisted tools to support technical documentation, data analysis, project communications, and workflow efficiency.
• Potentially assist with remedial system operations and maintenance services.

Travel up to 60% throughout the year, primarily in the Central U.S., with occasional travel across the U.S.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Hydrogeology, Geophysics, Geological/Geotechnical Engineering, or a related field.
• Ability to work within a team environment and independently.
• 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.
• Demonstrated interest in pursuing professional licensure (e.g., Professional Geologist (P.G.)) as experience requirements are met.
• Demonstrated ability to learn and adopt new technologies and digital tools to improve project delivery and operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Geology, Hydrogeology, Geophysics, Geological/Geotechnical Engineering, or a related field (preferred).
• Previous experience with environmental investigations, including air, 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 preparing and contributing to technical reports, memoranda, and work plans.
• Experience using generative AI tools (e.g., Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, Claude, or similar) to improve technical writing, data analysis, research, visualization, or project delivery efficiency.
• Knowledge and experience with CERCLA, DoD, DOE, EPA, and/or RCRA projects.

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 screen for extended periods.
• Ability to interpret and analyze visual data (maps, graphs, warning indicators, etc.).
• Driving a company or personal vehicle.
• Working in confined spaces and climbing ladders or stairs.
• Analyzing and synthesizing data.
• Reading and interpreting technical documents or regulations.
• Writing reports, proposals, or technical documentation.
• Communicating effectively with clients, team members, and stakeholders.
• Managing competing deadlines and shifting priorities.
• 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 with potential for longer days up to 12 hours in duration.

Schedule

HGL office work follows a 5-day work week (Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM). Fieldwork schedules may deviate based on job requirements and may require longer hours and weekends.

Pay

The annual salary for this position ranges from $43,509 to $60,912. The final salary may be impacted by factors including contractual requirements, geographic location, job-related education, training, experience, and skills.

About HGL

HGL is dedicated to restoring natural resources and providing ongoing environmental stewardship for present and future generations. Our projects primarily span the United States and its territories, addressing challenges associated with emerging contaminants (like PFAS), radiological contamination, military munitions, and chemical contamination in groundwater, surface water, sediments, and soil.

With over 550 employees, HGL combines the capability to execute high-profile projects with a personal working environment. We foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and teamwork, offering career growth opportunities through mentoring, training, education, and support for certifications and licenses.