Project Construction Geologist

AECOM • Oakland, CA

2d • $120,000 - $170,000 • Onsite

About The Position

AECOM is seeking a Construction Project Geologist to support the construction phase of a dam replacement project in the San Jose / Morgan Hill area of Northern California, beginning in early 2027. The role calls for in-depth knowledge of geologic processes and their effects on the design and construction of large civil projects. Work may include geologic mapping, subsurface soil, rock, and groundwater investigations, engineering analysis, and civil construction observation and monitoring.

The successful candidate will lead field investigations and engineering geologic data collection, characterize sites, oversee drilling and sampling, and support geotechnical instrumentation installation and monitoring. During construction, the geologist will provide support for dam and reservoir projects, observe excavation and fill work, and map and approve foundation conditions before placement. The role also involves interpreting field and laboratory data, preparing and reviewing technical documentation, contributing to project planning and proposals, and coordinating with project teams, clients, contractors, and regulators.

The position is on-site, with the primary location listed as Oakland, California. AECOM states that relocation and sponsorship are not provided. Newly hired employees must attend in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Earth Science, or a related field, plus 8 years of relevant experience, or demonstrated equivalency and/or education.
• California Professional Geologist (PG) license.
• Demonstrated in-depth knowledge of geologic processes and how geologic conditions can affect the design and construction of large civil construction projects.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree preferred.
• A PhD in a relevant discipline with less work experience may be considered.
• 12 or more years of experience preferred.
• Certified Engineering Geologist preferred.
• Direct experience supporting dam construction projects, including foundation mapping and approval.
• Experience with earthen dams and levee embankment investigations.
• Experience describing soil, sedimentary deposits, and bedrock from drill samples and field exposures.
• Knowledge of identifying and describing soil and rock types, field investigation techniques, laboratory analysis, and interpretation of published and project-specific geologic data.
• Familiarity with Division of Safety of Dams (DSOD) and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulations related to embankment dams and foundation investigations.
• Experience installing instrumentation and working with construction managers, contractors, and clients.
• Demonstrated ability to lead field efforts and mentor junior staff.
• Experience preparing detailed technical reports and documentation.

Responsibilities

• Lead field investigations and engineering geologic data collection, oversee subcontractors, and mentor junior staff.
• Perform site characterization, geologic mapping, drilling oversight, logging, and soil and rock sampling.
• Support installation and monitoring of geotechnical instrumentation, including monitoring wells, inclinometers, and ADAS.
• Provide construction-phase geologic support for dam and reservoir projects, ensuring alignment with design intent.
• Observe excavation and fill operations; map and approve foundation conditions before placement.
• Prepare and review boring logs, subsurface profiles, and geologic interpretations.
• Analyze field and laboratory data to support engineering evaluations and decision-making.
• Assist with project planning, budgeting, proposals, and coordination of investigation activities.
• Prepare, review, and QA/QC technical reports documenting field activities, analyses, interpretations, and recommendations.
• Coordinate with project teams, clients, contractors, and regulatory agencies throughout project execution.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability benefits (depending on employment status).
• Paid time off and leaves of absence (depending on employment status).
• Voluntary benefits and perks (depending on employment status).
• Flexible work options and well-being resources (depending on employment status).
• Employee assistance program and business travel insurance (depending on employment status).
• Service recognition awards (depending on employment status).
• Retirement savings plan (depending on employment status).
• Employee stock purchase plan (depending on employment status).
• Award-winning training and development programs.

What This Job Offers

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