Geologist – Entry Level (Hybrid)

Barr•Grand Rapids, MI

2d•$65,000 - $75,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Barr is seeking an entry-level geologist for its Assessment and Remediation business unit, based in its Grand Rapids, Michigan, office. The position supports projects involving the investigation, evaluation, and remediation of contaminated sites. Assignments may involve individual work or collaboration with project teams on environmental site assessments; investigations of contaminated soil, sediment, groundwater, surface water, and vapor; aquifer test performance and analysis; construction observation; site conceptual models; and preparation of drilling logs, geologic maps, cross-sections, and technical reports. Field tasks may include observing drilling and monitoring well installation, classifying soil and bedrock samples, and collecting samples for field screening and laboratory analysis. Fieldwork takes place year-round, with some out-of-town travel. The role expects up to 50% travel and 75% fieldwork, varying with project needs and season. A hybrid arrangement may be considered, splitting work between the Barr office and a home office. The work may take place on rough terrain at construction sites and in facilities with limited accessibility, moving machinery, or other industrial conditions. Assignments may also involve waste disposal sites and sites requiring hazardous-material cleanup. An OSHA-mandated physical exam may be required, safety training will be provided, and specific clients may request participation in drug screening. Candidates must be able to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation. The ideal candidate communicates clearly, works well independently and collaboratively, and is adaptable, organized, proactive, eager to learn, and attentive to detail. They take ownership of tasks, demonstrate reliability and safety awareness, and value teamwork, quality, and integrity while developing technical skills and professional judgment. The anticipated annual compensation range is $65,000–$75,000, depending on relevant experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors. Employees may also be eligible for a discretionary cash bonus based on team and individual performance. The position is classified as exempt (salaried) under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Barr is an employee-owned firm of engineers, scientists, and professionals. It emphasizes tailored client solutions, exceptional service, professional development, an inclusive workplace, and a culture of commitment and camaraderie.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in geology, hydrogeology, geological engineering, or a related field.
Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0.
Strong computer skills, including word processing and spreadsheets; familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite.
Current, valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
Legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for Barr sponsorship, now or in the future.
Ability to travel up to 50% and perform fieldwork up to 75%, with project needs varying seasonally and over time.
Ability to work in varying outdoor conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and uneven terrain.
Ability to lift and carry equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
Ability to work individually in remote locations.
Ability to stand, walk, kneel, or crouch for extended periods.
Ability to use personal protective equipment as required by site conditions.
Ability to safely operate or work around environmental monitoring and sampling equipment.
Ability to work at construction sites and in industrial facilities, including locations with rough terrain, limited accessibility, and moving machinery.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in geology, hydrogeology, geological engineering, or a related field.
One to three years of experience working on environmental sites.
40-hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard (HAZWOPER) certification.
Fundamentals of Geology (FG) certification or ability to obtain it within one year.
Familiarity with environmental regulations.

Responsibilities

Apply foundational geology and science principles to support site investigations, environmental sampling, and data collection.
Assist with analysis of environmental data and contribute to development of remediation approaches.
Help coordinate field activities and logistics, including contractor oversight and equipment preparation.
Assist in tracking project progress and documenting key milestones.
Contribute to evaluating site conditions and identifying potential solutions to environmental challenges.
Learn to apply regulatory knowledge and scientific reasoning to real-world scenarios.
Prepare clear field notes, chains-of-custody, internal and external client emails, data summaries, figures, and draft report sections.
Provide concise status updates to project managers and stakeholders.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and clients to align technical work with project objectives and foster productive working relationships.
Support environmental site assessments and on-site investigations of contaminated soil, sediment, groundwater, surface water, and vapor.
Assist with aquifer test performance and analysis, construction observation, and development of site conceptual models.
Prepare drilling logs, geologic maps, cross-sections, and technical reports.
Observe drilling and monitoring well installation, classify soil and bedrock samples, and collect samples for field screening and laboratory analysis.
Travel and periodically adjust personal schedules to meet project needs, including fieldwork and out-of-town assignments.

Benefits

Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and accidental death insurance.
Flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care.
401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution.
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with company contribution in Barr stock.
Annual bonus distribution plan and dividends to shareholders.
Annual time and expense allowances for professional development.
Mentorship program and internal training opportunities.
Paid time off and holidays.
Overtime for non-exempt/hourly staff and compensatory time (time off or pay for extra time worked) for exempt/salaried staff.
Paid family leave.
Ergonomic analysis and equipment.
Personal Protective Equipment allowance.
Wellbeing-focused educational opportunities.
Coaching, mentoring, and support for ongoing educational opportunities.