Geoscience Trainee

About the role

Join the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) as a Geoscience Trainee and help protect Pennsylvania’s soil and groundwater resources. In this one-year formal and on-the-job training program, you will learn to investigate contamination issues, support environmental cleanup efforts, and collaborate with scientists, officials, and community groups to ensure responsible environmental practices.

Responsibilities

• Conduct hydrogeologic studies of pollution incidents, spills, and complaints.
• Determine origins of contamination and recommend appropriate remedial actions.
• Compile and interpret hydrogeologic information through fieldwork, mapping, and laboratory reviews.
• Prepare memorandums supported by maps, charts, photographs, and other illustrations.
• Evaluate reports on contaminated sites and make recommendations based on laws and standards.
• Meet with officials, industries, and community groups to explain hydrogeologic principles.

Qualifications

• Possession of an active Geologist-in-Training certificate issued by or acceptable to the Pennsylvania State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists; or
• A bachelor’s degree in geology, geophysics, geochemistry, engineering geology, or a closely related field including or supplemented by 30 college credits in geologic coursework; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes 30 college credits in geologic coursework.

Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree/credits.

Requirements

• Possession and maintenance of an active Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C driver’s license or equivalent.
• Must meet Pennsylvania residency requirements.
• Must be able to perform essential job functions.

Schedule

Full-time employment, Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with a 30-minute lunch. This position requires travel.

You may have the opportunity to telework part-time, up to 3 days per week, from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. Telework requires a securely configured high-speed internet connection. If unable to telework, you will report to the headquarters office in Harrisburg. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time.

Pay

Starting annual salary of $59,149.00 (before taxes) for candidates new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.