Environmental Engineer or Geologist

Position Overview

We are currently seeking a Staff Environmental Engineer or Geologist II to work in a technical support role with highly skilled professionals on diverse project teams in a dynamic environment. This full‑time position is located in our Costa Mesa, CA office.

In this role, you will execute soil and groundwater sampling and provide hands‑on support for large site investigation programs, primarily at oil refineries and complex petroleum facilities. The position focuses on independent implementation of field work and data collection, ensuring accurate documentation, adherence to industry‑leading safety practices (including OSHA HAZWOPER protocols), and effective collaboration with project managers and multidisciplinary teams. Candidates will be expected to conduct soil, soil vapor, and groundwater sample collection and drilling activities including but not limited to direct push, hollow stem auger, sonic, and mud‑rotary methods.

Additional responsibilities include data evaluation, summarizing findings for project reports, and actively participating in health and safety meetings. The role also involves routine communications regarding progress, field conditions, and compliance with client requirements.

• Independently conduct field investigations and assessments of soil, groundwater, surface water, etc., using approved industry standard procedures.
• Conduct basic construction observation, including quality control documentation and field‑testing tasks.
• Conduct or oversee remedial system O&M and field pilot study demonstrations.
• Use results of field investigations, including subsurface explorations, monitoring well construction, field sampling, and other work to support site characterization.
• Prepare and maintain accurate and detailed documentation of activities both in the field and during data evaluation.
• Apply academic training and use computer software to perform calculations and evaluation of information.
• Perform project environmental data reduction and summarization.
• Support field data organization, reduction, and synthesis.
• Draft technical sections of project communications and reports.
• Assist with the development of technical scopes of work and cost estimating for proposal efforts on small‑to‑medium‑sized tasks or project opportunities.
• Perform all work in accordance with company and client health and safety protocols.
• Demonstrate the company’s foundational safety behaviors.
• Execute site characterization and investigation programs at petroleum refineries and similar facilities.
• Ensure strict adherence to OSHA and petroleum industry safety standards.

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering, Geology, or a related field.
• 2 to 4 years of related environmental field experience.
• Proficient technical writing, verbal communication, reasoning, and time management skills.
• Able to work independently or with minimal direction in performing tasks and assignments under the direction of senior staff.
• Desire to learn and grow in your profession, demonstrate a positive attitude, strong work ethic, resourcefulness, flexibility, and ownership.
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD, Civil 3D, GIS, or equivalent data systems.
• Familiar with environmental analytical testing and data reduction techniques for soil, water, and air.
• Able to meet the physical requirements of the position: lift 50 lbs., traverse unstable/sloping sites and landscapes, work outside in a range of weather conditions, and have the stamina for moderate physical activity for the majority of field working hours.
• Able to travel to work locations that may require overnight stays.
• OSHA 40‑hour HAZWOPER certification is required.
• Experience with petroleum refinery safety protocols and site characterization.

• Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering, Geology, or a related field.
• Experience in environmental analytical testing and data reduction for soil, water, and air.
• Strong chemistry, geochemistry, and biology background and understanding.
• Specialized software applications (e.g., groundwater modeling software).
• Experience with site investigation for oil & gas/petroleum clients.

The salary range for this position in Costa Mesa, CA is $80,000 - $85,000 annually. Actual compensation will be based upon a variety of factors such as education, related work experience, certificates, skills, and current market conditions. Haley & Aldrich reviews salary ranges each quarter to assess competitiveness with the market.

Haley & Aldrich offers a highly competitive total compensation plan, a solid benefits package, and excellent career growth opportunities.

Haley & Aldrich is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, age, disability, veteran, or any other legally protected status.