SENIOR ENGINEERING GEOLOGIST

Working Title: Branch Chief

Classification: Senior Engineering Geologist
Pay: $11,437.00 - $14,315.00 per month
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.

Number of Positions: Multiple
Work Location: Sacramento County
Telework: Hybrid
Job Type: Permanent, Full Time

About the Role

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) Geotechnical Services is seeking a Branch Chief for the Office of Geotechnical Support. Under the supervision of a Supervising Transportation Engineer, the Senior Engineering Geologist (Supervisor) will plan, organize, and direct geologic and geophysics studies for transportation projects. This role involves coordination with District units and the four geotechnical design offices, serving as a liaison to clients, and developing and tracking geophysical testing. The incumbent ensures testing is conducted on schedule and results are delivered to clients by necessary deadlines.

A valid license as a geologist or geophysicist issued by the California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists is required for appointment to this position.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and direct geologic and geophysics studies for transportation projects.
• Coordinate with District units and the four geotechnical design offices.
• Serve as liaison to clients and develop and track the conduct of geophysical testing.
• Ensure testing is conducted on schedule and results are provided to clients in accordance with deadlines.
• Establish quality procedures, standards, and/or specifications including AASHTO, ASTM, California Test Methods, and Field Procedures.
• Initiate and maintain positive working relationships with internal and external partners, including state, federal, and local agencies.

Requirements

• Possession of a valid license as a geologist or geophysicist issued by the California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists.
• Valid driver’s license required when operating a State-owned or leased vehicle.
• Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) is required; failure to submit will disqualify candidates from the hiring process.
• Eligibility for hire may be determined by your score on the Senior Engineering Geologist exam. Candidates without current eligibility must be on the state examination list.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to determine and establish quality procedures, standards, and/or specifications (e.g., AASHTO, ASTM, California Test Methods, and Field Procedures).
• Knowledge of geotechnical investigations and design, and their role in project delivery.
• Experience with downhole and surface geophysical test methods.
• Demonstrated ability to initiate and maintain positive working relationships and represent Geotechnical Services and Caltrans with tact and diplomacy.

If basing eligibility on education, unofficial transcript(s)/diploma must be provided for verification. Applicants with foreign transcripts/degrees must provide a U.S. equivalency evaluation report from a recognized agency (e.g., NACES or AICE).

Benefits

This position may be eligible for telework, at the discretion of the Department and based on Caltrans’s evolving telework policy. In-person attendance may be required based on operational needs. Business travel may be required, with reimbursement subject to CalHR regulations or applicable bargaining unit contract provisions.