Project Construction Geologist

About the role

AECOM is seeking a Construction Project Geologist to support the construction phase of a dam replacement project in Silicon Valley (San Jose / Morgan Hill area of Northern California) beginning in early 2027.

Responsibilities

• Lead field investigations and engineering geologic data collection, including oversight of subcontractors and mentoring junior staff
• Perform site characterization, geologic mapping, drilling oversight, logging, and soil/rock sampling
• Support installation and monitoring of geotechnical instrumentation (e.g., monitoring wells, inclinometers, ADAS)
• Provide construction-phase geologic support for dam and reservoir projects, ensuring alignment with design intent
• Observe excavation and fill operations; map and approve foundation conditions prior to placement
• Prepare and review boring logs, subsurface profiles, and geologic interpretations
• Analyze field and laboratory data to support engineering evaluations and decision-making
• Aid in project planning, budgeting, proposals, and coordination of investigation activities
• Prepare, review, and QA/QC technical reports, including documentation of field activities, analyses, interpretations, and recommendations
• Cookordination with project teams, clients, contractors, and regulatory agencies throughout project execution

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Geology or Earth Science, or related field + 8 years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency and/or education
• California Professional Geologist (PG) license preferred
• Master’s Degree preferred. PhD in relevant discipline with less work experience may be considered
• 12+ years of experience is preferred
• Experience with earthen dams and levee embankment investigations
• Knowledge of identification and description of all manners of soil and rock types, field investigation techniques, laboratory analysis, interpretation of published and project specific geologic data
• Familiarity with Division of Safety of Dams (DSOD) and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulations related to embankment dams and foundation investigations
• Demonstrated ability to lead field efforts and mentor junior staff
• Experience preparing detailed technical reports and documentation