Engineering geologists undertake technical and scientific analysis of rock, soil, groundwater and other conditions to determine the likely impact that major construction developments will have on sites.
Encompassing engineering, geotechnical work and site investigation, engineering geologists are in demand in the construction, energy and environmental sectors.
As an engineering geologist, you are concerned with the detailed technical analysis of earth material and the risk assessment of geological hazards. Your role is to identify and deal with geological factors affecting engineering works.
You’ll assess the integrity of soil, rock, groundwater and other natural conditions prior to major construction projects, and advise on procedures required for such developments and the suitability of appropriate construction materials.
Employers of Engineering Geologists
Engineering geologists are required within certain areas of the construction industry, on regeneration programmes and similar projects. You could work within the public sector, mostly for councils, or in the private sector where projects vary according to the company.
The main employers of engineering geologists are:
- civil engineering contractors
- civil engineering consultancies
- environmental consultancies
- mining companies
- geotechnical and geo-environmental site investigation companies
- government bodies
- oil and gas companies.
Duties
- collecting, analysing and interpreting data
- accessing, using and analysing site information (such as radar images, aerial photographs, reports and geological maps) prior to site investigations
- planning, organising and undertaking field work/site investigations by creating boreholes and trial pits
- preparing reports
- providing advice and information to clients on a range of issues including, for example, proposed use, subsidence and construction materials
- assessing and minimising the risks of man-made and natural hazards in the environment
- ensuring that projects keep to budgets and timescales
- managing and liaising with construction engineers, consultants, contractors and geotechnical engineers
- when more senior, managing projects and setting objectives
Qualifications
Relevant degree subjects include earth, physical, mathematical and applied sciences and engineering. In particular, the following subjects may increase your chances:
- engineering geology and geotechnics
- geology
- geophysics
- mining engineering.
Skills
- The ability to adapt to different working conditions and things changing
- Team working and communication skills
- The ability to analyse and interpret data
- Attention to detail
- Problem solving
- Time management
- Enjoying working out of doors as well as in an office