Engineering geologists are concerned with the detailed technical analysis of earth material and the risk assessment of geological hazards. Their role is to ensure that geological factors affecting engineering works are identified and dealt with. They assess the integrity of soil, rock, groundwater and other natural conditions prior to major construction projects. They also advise on procedures required for such developments and the suitability of appropriate construction materials. Engineering geologists are also involved with analyzing sites and designs for environmentally sensitive developments, such as landfill sites. By monitoring development areas and analyzing ground conditions, they ensure that structures can be secure in the short and long term.
Accessing, using and analyzing site information (such as radar images, aerial photographs, reports and geological maps) prior to site investigations
Visiting sites
Preparing reports
Providing advice and information to clients on a range of issues including for example proposed use, subsidence and construction materials
Ensuring that projects keep to budgets and timescales
Managing and liaising with construction engineers, consultants, contractors and geotechnical engineers
Managing projects and setting objectives
Planning, organizing and undertaking field work/site investigations
Collecting and analyzing rock, bedrock and near-surface deposits
Using specialist computer applications
Skills required
Qualifications and training required
A variety of degree subjects are acceptable for entry into the profession. These include geology, geography, geophysics/geotechnology, civil engineering, physics, engineering geology and mining/mineral engineering. Postgraduate qualifications (MSc/PhD) in relevant/specialist subjects are normally advantageous, and essential for candidates without relevant first degrees. Graduates can obtain fellowship membership of the Geological Society of London by having an accredited undergraduate geosciences degree or by gaining several years of relevant experience. With appropriate professional development/experience it is possible to obtain chartered geologist status.
Key skills for engineering geologists
Employers seek motivated, flexible candidates with good team working, analytical, communication, organizational, interpersonal and problem-solving skills. Relevant fieldwork experience may be of benefit; this can be obtained via work shadowing, placements or vacation jobs. A full, clean driving license is often needed too.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
A number of careers are open to geological engineers, geologists and paleontologists. Job growth in the geosciences between 2010 and 2020 is expected to be 20% above the national average for all occupations according to the Bureau of Labor statistics.
Many of these specialists consult for engineering or environmental firms. Many are employed by highway departments, environmental protection agencies, forest services, and hydro operations.
Construction industries depend on geological engineers to assure the stability of rock and soil foundations for tunnels, bridges, and high-rises. Foundations must withstand earthquakes, landslides, and all other phenomena which effect the ground, including permafrost, swamps and bogs.
Geological engineers find better ways to build and manage landfills. They find safer ways to dispose of toxic chemicals and garbage, and to manage sewage. They plan excavations and design tunnels.
Transportation infrastructures depend on geological engineers to determine strong terrain and safe pathways for airports, railways, highways, and even pipelines.
These engineers are heavily employed in energy fields, exploring for more natural resources (oil, gas, uranium, tar sands, geothermal and coal). They develop ways to mine hard-to-access resources, and in the least polluting manner. They are responsible for the safety of pits, reservoirs and mining facilities, guarding against earthquake damage and environmental risks—even for nuclear reactors.
Groundwater is another geological engineering specialty. Industries and farms need reliable water sources, sometimes requiring dams or well drilling. Water supply to hydroelectric dams is regulated by these engineers; they design dikes and they work at preventing shoreline erosion.
Ore and other metallic mineral deposits (lead, zinc, iron, nickel, copper) are essential to transportation and construction industries. Geological engineers discover new sources of minerals, as present supplies diminish.
Earnings
A Mining or Geological Engineer will most likely earn wages that can range from 64000 to 96000 depending on seniority. Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers will usually earn an average wage of Eighty Seven Thousand Four Hundred dollars on a yearly basis. Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers can obtain the highest salaries in California, where they receive average pay scales of about $97760. People who work inside these careers make the most money in Manufacturing, where they can receive pay of $91560.
Entry is possible without a third level qualification which means jobs are open to graduates from all disciplines, but relevant qualifications are becoming increasingly more in demand by employers. In addition, most employers ask for some previous experience within the Geological Field.
To be a Geological Engineer you should have:
Excellent communication and presentation skills
Excellent technical knowledge
Good team working skills
The ability to priorities and plan effectively
A high level of computer literacy, particularly computer-aided design
Good commercial awareness
The ability to work under pressure and to deadlines
Good problem-solving skills and a creative approach for new ideas
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