Graduate Geologist - 2026
About The Position
At Mott MacDonald, we believe that engineering is about more than solving problems, it’s about shaping a future that’s inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. As we expand our operations across the US and Canada, we’re inviting passionate individuals to join us in a journey that’s driven by purpose and powered by brilliant people. We’re trusted consultants, partnering with clients to solve complex challenges and deliver lasting impact. From the moment you join our team, you’ll be surrounded by experienced engineering consultants, project managers, and subject matter experts who are committed to excellence and innovation. You’ll work side-by-side with mentors and peers who champion integrity and teamwork, because we know collaboration drives better outcomes – and you won’t just apply your engineering skills, you’ll also embrace the mindset of a consultant. Together, we’ll tackle complex challenges, deliver sustainable solutions, and create positive change for our clients and the communities they serve. You’ll be trusted to contribute, encouraged to grow, and supported every step of the way. As a participant in our brand-new graduate program, Blueprint, launching in October 2026, you’ll embark on a structured three-year development journey designed in collaboration with an award-winning learning provider. The program blends immersive learning experiences with mandatory development sessions to build the professional, commercial, and personal effectiveness skills to equip graduates to thrive and lead in our business.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Geology.
- Knowledge of AutoCAD 2017 or higher
- Self-motivated and able to work as part of a team.
- Geologist-in-Training (GIT) certification, or the ability to obtain GIT certification within 12 months
- The desire to work toward and obtain California PG and CEG licensure
- Demonstrated interest in your chosen field through previous internships, volunteering opportunities, or organization memberships
- Creative thinking skills, with a methodical and pragmatic approach to problem solving
- Proficient communication and presentation skills to engage confidently with clients and colleagues
- Resilient, solution-oriented mindset, with a focus on continuous growth and delivering value
- Ability to build and maintain relationships and rapport with internal and external stakeholders
- Collaborative spirit and commitment to teamwork
- A valid California Driver’s license
- Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US, as Mott MacDonald is unable to provide sponsorship at this time.
Responsibilities
- Log soil and rock borings (hollow-stem auger, mud rotary, sonic) in accordance with ASTM D2488 and the USCS; log rock core per ISRM/Caltrans conventions
- Observe and document CPT soundings, test pits, and geophysical surveys (e.g., suspension P-S logging, MASW)
- Collect and preserve soil and rock samples (SPT, Modified California, Shelby tube, core runs) with proper labeling and chain-of-custody
- Perform field classification, pocket penetrometer, and torvane testing
- Monitor groundwater levels; install and develop piezometers and monitoring wells under senior supervision
- Coordinate USA/DigAlert utility clearances, drilling subcontractors, and site access ahead of fieldwork
- Conduct site reconnaissance and geologic mapping, including documentation of surficial conditions, slope features, seeps, and existing distress
- Maintain daily field reports, photo logs, and quantity tracking for drilling and construction activities
- Assist with seismic hazard evaluations: fault mapping review (Alquist-Priolo zones), CGS Seismic Hazard Zone maps, liquefaction and seismic settlement screening, ground motion parameters per ASCE 7 and CBC guidelines
- Perform preliminary engineering geology research: review of geologic maps (CGS, USGS), historical aerial photographs, prior reports, and grading records
- Support slope stability, settlement, and bearing capacity analyses under the direction of a Geotechnical Engineer
- Draft sections of geotechnical investigation reports, geologic hazard reports, and fault investigation reports
- Assist with the preparation of figures, site plans, and boring location maps
Benefits
- personal and group performance bonuses
- 401k
- medical, dental and vision insurance
- short-term/long-term disability
- paid holidays
- PTO
- parental leave
- company paid life insurance
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
