Associate Geological Specialist

Description GAI Consultants, Inc. is seeking an Associate Geological Specialist under the direction of an Engineering Geology Manager for the Geotechnical Engineering Group in Pittsburgh or Philadelphia, PA, Canton, OH, Bridgeport or Charleston, WV, and Richmond, VA areas. This individual will provide geological support for projects in the Energy, Transportation, and Community Development business units. The position will require travel and fieldwork generally located in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Virginia. This position is eligible for a sign‑on bonus. This position requires travel regionally. Essential Duties Perform engineering geology assignments involving subsurface investigations and geologic site characterization for a variety of facilities including, but not limited to: design of embankments and cut slopes for roadways and other developments, foundations for roadways, bridges, dams, retaining walls, transmission lines, buildings, and other structures; designs for natural gas pipelines and compressor stations; design of waste landfills and impoundments; and development of geotechnical monitoring and laboratory testing programs. Typical work tasks will include, but are not limited to: monitoring and logging of test borings; site reconnaissance; installation and monitoring of geotechnical field instrumentation; selection of samples for laboratory testing. Perform earthwork construction monitoring and foundation inspection. The individual will be responsible for interpreting specifications and construction drawings, evaluating site conditions based on construction excavations, monitoring and reporting on construction activities, and performing field testing of soils. Prepare boring logs and geologic cross sections; assist with proposals, budgets, schedules, specifications, and reports. Assist with geotechnical engineering designs involving rock/soil slope stability; cut slope and fill embankment design; shallow and deep foundation recommendations, and landslide remediation. Travel can be expected in the form of fieldwork, which can be daily local travel or weekly out‑of‑town travel. General Characteristics Attention to detail; ability to acquire basic skills for geological/geotechnical investigations and construction monitoring; follows GAI procedures; learns record‑keeping protocols, learns data collection, recording and interpretation; learns technical literature research basics; available for frequent travel and fieldwork. Physical Requirements Ability to work in outdoor environments under varying weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and rugged terrain. Exposure to active construction sites. Capable of walking, hiking, or standing for extended periods during field and site visits. Must be able to lift and carry tools, equipment, technical samples, documents, and other materials weighing up to 40–50 pounds. Frequent bending, crouching, and climbing may be required during fieldwork and sample collection. Ability to safely operate and wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as helmets, safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and boots as required by site safety protocols. Visual acuity and manual dexterity to handle technical tools, read maps and instruments, observe site conditions, and document findings accurately. Comfortable working in remote or isolated locations, sometimes for extended durations. Comfortable working in confined spaces and/or at heights, as required by specific project sites. May require driving long distances to field sites and operating vehicles on unpaved or uneven roads. Minimum Years of Experience 0+ Years of Experience Education B.S. or M.S. in Geology or Engineering Geology Certification/Licensure Valid Driver’s License (with no significant motor vehicle record blemishes). Working towards Geologist In Training (GIT). Has the ability to obtain Professional Geologist (PG) license. Technical Responsibilities Field tasks include collecting geotechnical and environmental samples (soil, sediment, groundwater, soil vapor, stormwater), logging soil borings, installing monitoring wells, performing site inspections, performing compliance monitoring during construction, and writing clear, concise field notes. Prepare data and visualizations such as tables, charts, accurate reports, and illustrations for the interpretation or presentation of data, findings, or analyses. Management Responsibility Receives close supervision on all aspects of assignments. Attains mentored experience from a licensed geologist. Communication Skills Possesses basic English oral and written communication skills. Identifies and acknowledges principles of teamwork and leadership. Interacts primarily with internal project team members. Why GAI? At GAI, exceptional people have an exceptional place to work, grow, lead, and achieve. Explore an array of opportunities in locations across the U.S. and join accomplished colleagues in tackling challenging projects for a range of markets. Enjoy comprehensive benefits and feel good about being part of a collaborative team that is committed to supporting the communities we serve. Join GAI and distinguish yourself in a company poised for unlimited growth. Benefits To Working at GAI Include: Competitive salary – GAI is committed to paying market‑based salaries. Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, company‑paid Long‑Term Disability, and Short‑Term Disability (benefits start within 30 days of hire). New paid Maternity/Paternity/Adoption program. Generous Paid Time Off and 7 paid holidays. 401(k) company match. Tuition Reimbursement. Qualifications Education: Bachelors of Geology (required). Licenses & Certifications: Driver’s License (required). Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor. #J-18808-Ljbffr