GEOLOGY ASSOCIATE
8374C3
Pay Grade: 27
DEFINITION OF WORK
Summary
This is beginning level work in geology, environmental geology, hydrogeology
and/or groundwater pollution investigations.
Work involves assisting in conducting less complex geologic reviews and field
investigations, collecting, and analyzing geological field samples and data;
assist in preparing geologic maps, reports and statistics of findings,
recommendations and publishing information. Work includes assisting in a
specialized field such as environmental, engineering, hydrogeology, economic,
petroleum, geothermal, or hazard geology. Work assignments may be project
oriented or may include assisting in the coordination and implementation of a
program within a major program area.
Distinguishing Features
Differs from the Geology Trainee class where the incumbents perform work under
“immediate supervision” and which is designed as a training class to provide
professionally supervised on-the-job training and to prepare incumbents for the
Fundamentals of Geology examination.
Differs from the Professional Geologist II in which the incumbents perform
professional duties that may be project oriented and/or conduct more complex
independent field investigations or surveys, requiring minimal guidance and
direction, and may be assigned several concurrent projects requiring
coordination with other professional peers, government, and the private sector.
EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED
Oversees and participates in office, geologic field studies and investigations
pertaining to proposed infrastructure.
Conducts field and laboratory research related to mineral research, rock
formations and soil conditions affecting geotechnical engineering designs.
Directs and participates in all activities of engineering a geological survey
for highway design, construction, maintenance and remediation projects;
including reconnaissance and corridor studies, detailed subsurface
investigations, and preparation of maps; plan profiles, cross-sections and
complex geotechnical reports.
Examines aerial photographs, researches available data, and measures geologic
sections in road cuts and stream banks near a proposed highway construction
project; assists in the preparation of geologic maps and profiles geotechnical
reports.
Examines on a limited basis applications for underground injection of oil field
brine or drilling permits for oil and gas wells, underground porosity gas storage wells,
as well as seismic and cathodic protection boreholes; ensures applications
comply with state rules and regulations; researches available data; works with
oil and gas operators and contractors to ensure that applications are in
compliance.
Prepares preliminary recommendations for approval or denial of drilling permits,
underground injection applications, and underground porosity gas storage
permits.
Reviews well construction information and prepares recommendations for routine
well plugging operations consistent with state rules and regulations.
Prepares various subsurface maps and geologic sections related to petroleum
exploration and production operations or underground porosity gas storage
operations.
Reviews work plans, specifications and proposals for groundwater monitoring
programs or remedial action projects related to industrial facilities,
agricultural facilities, storage tanks sites, oil field waste management
facilities, landfills, emergency response actions for oil/brine and hazardous
substance releases and spills, solid and hazardous wastes, underground storage,
and mining; and provides quality assurance compliance by analyzing and
evaluating field sampling data.
Participates in the collection and analysis of geologic and technical data for
less complex field studies and investigations; reviews and evaluates data from
the investigations to initiate appropriate remedial or corrective action.
Reviews and assists in conducting investigations, tests or surveys, collects
samples for lab analysis and analyze field samples and data to identify rock and
soil types, groundwater conditions and resources, quality mineral resources, and
geothermal energy, petroleum and natural gas potential, or earth instability
problems.
Drafts geological maps and cross sections or reduce and analyzes field data.
Assists in conducting statistical mapping and compiles and interprets
information from geologic source documents and laboratory test results, drill
logs, corridor, and other field studies.
Reviews and comments on permit applications, plans, change orders, renewals;
reviews bond releases and other performance standards; and provides technical
guidance to public, contractors, landowners, officials, and agencies.
Investigates and evaluates highway project where toxic waste is generated;
engages in soil and water sampling.
Assists in the examination of agency projects for the detection and
identification of hazardous waste.
Assists in the preparation and review of hydrogeologic studies of subsurface
formations to recommend surface pipe setting depths, cementing and routine
plugging procedures, and construction and abandonment procedures in
environmentally sensitive areas.
Reviews operating permits for completeness and adherence to technical
requirements; prepares technical reports for less complex remedial and
corrective action projects; assists in preparing reports and maintaining records
of violations for developing enforcement actions.
Meets with industry, consultants and agency staff to discuss regulations and
actions.
Acts as field geologist on projects including logging test drilling, designing
and constructing monitoring points, designing and implementing aquifer tests,
witnessing various production and integrity testing of wells, sampling,
documenting field activities and directing field teams.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS
Knowledge
*Knowledge of the principles and practices applied in conducting geologic and
hydrogeologic field studies and investigations and researching and analyzing
geologic data and samples.
*Knowledge of the sources of technical geologic information.
*Knowledge of geologic processes and their interrelationships.
Abilities
*Ability to read, interpret, and use maps, plans, charts, cross-sections,
geophysical techniques, and related material associated with geologic studies
and investigations.
*Ability to analyze and present technical data effectively.
*Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
*Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with
associates, consultants, private officials, and the public.
*Necessary at Entry
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Bachelor's degree in geology/hydrogeology/earth
science/geoscience or other related field and one year of experience in
conducting geologic studies and investigations or research.
Necessary Special Requirements:
Some positions in the class may require a certificate to practice as an
intern geologist in the State of Kansas at the time of appointment.
NC: 03/05
REV: 08/05 |