Groundwater Characterization Geologist

The Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Planning, Office of Water Supply, Groundwater Characterization and Monitoring Program is seeking a qualified candidate to collect, analyze, and interpret data to understand where groundwater is present and in what quantity and quality. The successful candidate collects and evaluates data from drill cuttings and other geological samples during intensive field operations, including mud rotary drilling, primarily in the Coastal Plain of Virginia, including the Eastern Shore. Prepares detailed, accurate geologic logs. Interprets hydrogeological data and geophysical logs to characterize local and regional hydrostratigraphy. Operates GPS and surveying equipment to collect high-precision coordinates and elevation data. Manages electronic data and physical inventory. Provides project oversight and management to complete State Observation Well installation associated with the implementation of groundwater withdrawal permit special conditions. Provides Agency oversight of drilling, geophysical logging, downwell camera surveys, and other permit-required field operations. Communicates effectively with permittees and contractors. Collects groundwater data from Agency’s network of State Observation Wells. Ensures that established operating procedures are followed and data collected appropriately, on schedule. Enters data into USGS GWSI Aquarius system, reviews data entered by other staff, and processes the data to develop final copy for approval. Evaluates available hydrogeological data to determine trends in groundwater use, groundwater levels, and groundwater quality. Installs real-time monitoring equipment and performs routine maintenance and upkeep on assigned groundwater wells to ensure that sites are secure and do not pose a threat to public safety or Agency personnel. Oversees the operation and maintenance of scientific equipment (Satlink transmitters, pressure transducers, DCP transmitters, encoders, GPS, antennas, and solar collection power system) on assigned groundwater wells.