Geologist Iii, Environmental Programs

Introduction

We encourage you to consider an exciting career with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). If you are dedicated to protecting and preserving Maryland's air, water, land resources, and safeguarding the health of all its citizens, we invite you to apply and become a part of our team.

The primary purpose of this role is to review and evaluate conditions of known or suspected contamination to determine the necessary extent of remediation. This includes overseeing activities at Voluntary Cleanup Program (VCP) and Controlled Hazardous Substances (CHS) sites.

• Independently evaluate the work of highly trained and experienced consultants.
• Review and comment on technical documents to ensure that site assessments and remediations meet standards for protecting human health and the environment across various media.
• Draft formal correspondence, including letters, comments on applications and response plans, and site closure documents.

• Work may involve exposure to temperature extremes and contaminated areas.
• Role requires inspecting areas with chemical and physical hazards, such as old landfills, former spill sites, dilapidated buildings, and debris-strewn locations.
• Requirements include lifting heavy equipment and supplies (50 pounds or more), climbing ladders, and wearing respiratory protection.
• Field activities require the use of respirators, gloves, goggles, and Tyvek suits.

A valid driver’s license with no more than five points is required to operate a State vehicle.

If you hold an out-of-state license, you must provide a certified copy of your driving record from the appropriate Motor Vehicle Administration at the time of appointment.

• Education:
  
  A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Geology, Environmental Geology or related earth science.
• Experience:
  
  Three years of experience performing professional geological work.

Notes:

• Candidates may substitute the possession of a Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Geology, Environmental Geology or related earth science for the required education and one year of the required experience.
• Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience at a rank of Corporal/Petty Officer or higher as a commissioned officer in physical science classification or physical science specialty codes in the geology field of work on a year-for-year basis for the required education.

• Experience reviewing Phase I Environmental Site Assessments.
• Experience reviewing Phase II Environmental Site Assessments.

• Employees may be assigned duties that require motor‑vehicle operation and must possess a valid Maryland driver’s license.
• May be required to successfully complete and maintain certification specified in U.S. OSHA Regulations (29 CFR  Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response).

• May be required to walk over rough or unstable terrain or over long distances while wearing respiratory protection and other personal protection equipment.
• May be subject to ongoing medical testing per OSHA regulations (29 CFR  Hazardous Wastes).
• May be required to call in on a 24‑hour basis and provide a reachable telephone number.
• Must successfully complete and pass the medical monitoring examination as a condition of employment.

• Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities for many positions.
• Free mass transit in Baltimore & Annapolis.
• Generous paid leave that increases with years of service.
• Paid holidays.
• Health coverage with low out‑of‑pocket costs.
• Employee & employer contributory pension plan.

We thank our Veterans for their service to our country. People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruitment, retaining, and promoting employees who reflect the State’s diversity. MDE is dedicated to creating a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We strive to cultivate an inclusive environment where differences are celebrated.