District Geologist

State of Indiana•La Porte, IN

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) provides a dynamic workplace that serves Indiana citizens, improves our state’s quality of life, and enhances its economic opportunity. INDOT has a number of innovative programs and projects, including Public-Private Partnerships, Green Initiatives, and cutting-edge uses of materials and assets. As part of the State of Indiana, INDOT offers a competitive total compensation package, as well as outstanding work/life balance. Whether you are an established professional in the transportation field or just starting your career, INDOT has exciting and challenging opportunities for you. The INDOT District Geologist supports transportation projects by evaluating subsurface conditions, conducting geologic and material assessments, and ensuring geotechnical risks are identified early in project development. The role includes serving as a liaison for the Certified Aggregate Producer Program (CAPP), coordinating with producers to maintain material quality, and performing routine quarry visits to assess aggregate sources and document geologic conditions. Key responsibilities also involve providing technical expertise to engineers, contributing to design recommendations, and supporting construction activities through field investigations and material evaluations. The top three skills sought in an ideal candidate are strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities, effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders, and solid technical knowledge of geology, soil mechanics, and aggregate production.

Requirements

Licensed Professional Geologist in Indiana preferred.
Extensive knowledge of the principles, practices, theories, and methodologies applied to geologic/hydrogeologic science and related fields.
Thorough knowledge of and the ability to interpret and apply all applicable federal and state laws, environmental regulations, acts, and guidelines.
Extensive knowledge of applied statistics, environmental design, geologic sampling, and interpretation of geologic analysis.
Thorough knowledge of remedial and corrective action as it relates to various program areas.
Ability to conduct intensive research for geologic and hydrogeological advancement of the program area.
Ability to determine resolutions and new approaches to various geotechnical problems.
Specialized knowledge of geophysical instrumentation including Electro magnetometer, Resistivity Meter, and Seismograph.
Specialized knowledge of well hydraulics, ground water modeling, drinking water management, waste and wastewater management, and related regulations.
Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Geology, Geophysics, Geochemistry, Geological Engineer, or Geotechnical Engineering from an accredited college or university.
Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
Knowledge of American Association of State Highway Transportation (AASHTO), American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM), Indiana Test Methods, and INDOT specifications.
Working knowledge of, and ability to operate, geologic field instruments and construction testing equipment such as LWD, DCPT, etc.
Working knowledge of survey and mapping techniques.

Responsibilities

Provide geologic consultation utilizing technical expertise regarding engineering geology, hydrogeology, and geology.
Understand, interpret, and employ applicable State and Federal regulatory rules, guidance, and policies related to geological investigations and contaminant remediation.
Lead or assist field teams during site investigations.
Evaluate and assist in developing geologically related plans and documents.
Develop and write technical reports and correspondence including tabulating and interpreting data for reports.
Follow proper sampling procedures and use appropriate geophysical and other field techniques.
Review and evaluate technical guidance documents, reports, journals, and related articles.
Determine historic geologic and hydrogeologic conditions utilizing agency files.
Assist in geological enforcement actions.
Provide technical assistance to other staff, state and federal agencies, industries, contractors, and the public.
Work with the Testing Team to report findings and make recommendations of construction material aggregates and soils for highway construction.
Research/investigate into construction contracts that do not comply with specifications.
Administer INDOT’s Certified Aggregate Producers Program (CAPP) program at the District level.
Regulate and monitor all aggregate sources assigned to the District and ensure compliance with Department specifications and guidelines.

Benefits

Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to: 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
Education Reimbursement Program
Group life insurance
Referral Bonus program
Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
Free Parking for most positions
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