Geologist/Environmental Engineer – Entry Level (Hybrid)

Barr Engineering Co • Seattle, WA

6d • Hybrid

About The Position

Barr is seeking a geologist or engineer to join our Seattle, Washington, office. In this hybrid role, you will support the Assessment and Remediation business unit and undertake challenging and progressive work on projects related to the investigation, evaluation, and remediation of contaminated sites for a variety of clients, including public sector and mining clients. Assignments may include working as an individual or as part of a project team to assist with environmental site assessments; on-site investigations of contaminated sediment, soil, groundwater, surface water, and vapor; aquifer test performance and analysis; construction observation; development of site conceptual models; and preparation of drilling logs, geologic maps, cross-sections, and technical reports. In addition, work may include assisting with the preparation of technical work plans, cost estimates, and contracts; helping to develop remediation and reclamation strategies and designs; completing feasibility studies; preparing plans and specifications; and writing technical reports. On-site investigation tasks may include observing sediment coring, drilling and monitoring well installation, classifying sediment, soil and bedrock samples, and collecting samples for field screening and laboratory analysis. Fieldwork opportunities for this position will be year-round and include some out-of-town travel. The ideal candidate for this position is a clear and confident communicator who thrives in collaborative and independent work environments. They are adaptable, organized, proactive, eager to learn and comfortable asking thoughtful questions. They bring a high level of attention to detail and take ownership of assigned tasks in dynamic field and office conditions. They demonstrate reliability, safety awareness, and a growth mindset as they build their technical skills and professional judgment. Above all, they value teamwork, quality, and integrity in delivering impactful environmental solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in geology, hydrogeology, geological engineering, environmental engineering, or a related degree.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0.
• Strong computer skills, including word processing and use of spreadsheets.
• Familiarity with the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Possession of a current, valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship by Barr, now or in the future.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in geology, hydrogeology, geological, or environmental engineering or a related degree.
• 1–3 years of experience working on environmental sites.
• 40-hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard (HAZWOPER) certification.
• Fundamentals of Geology (FG) certified and/or Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certified or ability to obtain certification within one year.
• Familiarity with environmental regulations.

Responsibilities

• Apply foundational geology and engineering principles to support site investigations, environmental sampling, and data collection.
• Assist in the analysis of environmental data and contribute to the development of remediation and reclamation approaches.
• Help coordinate field activities and logistics, including contractor oversight and equipment preparation.
• Assist in tracking project progress and documenting key milestones.
• Contribute to the evaluation of site conditions and identification of potential solutions to environmental challenges.
• Learn how to apply regulatory knowledge and scientific reasoning to real-world scenarios.
• Produce clear field notes, chain-of-custodies, internal and external client emails, data summaries, figures, and draft report sections.
• Provide concise status updates to project managers and stakeholders.
• Effectively collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and clients to align technical work with project objectives while fostering strong, productive working relationships.

Benefits

• Competitive, affordable insurance plans: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, accidental death insurance, and flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care
• Retirement benefits: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with company contribution in Barr stock
• Profit distribution: Barr has a "no retained earnings" model and distributes all profit to our employees through our annual bonus distribution plan, ESOP, and dividends to shareholders
• Professional development benefits: Annual time and expense allowances, mentorship program, and many internal training opportunities
• Work/life balance: Paid time off, holidays, overtime for non-exempt/hourly staff, and compensatory time for exempt/salaried staff (time off or pay for extra time worked), paid family leave
• Wellness focus: Ergonomic analysis and equipment, Personal Protective Equipment allowance, wellbeing-focused educational opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level