Geoscience Trainee

Are you ready to embark on an exciting journey into the fascinating world of geology? The Department of Environmental Protection is seeking a motivated and passionate individual eager to help protect and enhance Pennsylvania’s natural resources while supporting the health and quality of life of its communities. This is a unique opportunity to become part of a dynamic, mission-driven team committed to making a meaningful environmental impact.

By applying today, you can begin a rewarding career that offers intellectual challenge, professional growth, and the chance to play a vital role in preserving the beauty and resilience of our state. Do not miss this opportunity to make a real difference—join us and help build a sustainable future for Pennsylvania!

In this position, you will participate in a comprehensive one-year training program that prepares you with the core skills and knowledge needed to work as a Geoscientist. During this time, you will perform a range of duties, including reviewing surface and underground mining permit applications for both coal and non‑coal operations. Your work will ensure compliance with state and federal regulations and will involve drafting deficiency letters and providing well‑supported permitting recommendations.

Additionally, you will carry out hydrologic impact assessments, evaluate groundwater data, and investigate water supply and subsidence concerns. These efforts will lead to the preparation of thorough technical reports outlining your analyses and conclusions. You will also work closely with state and federal environmental agencies to evaluate potential impacts on endangered species, take part in public meetings to address community questions, and respond to stakeholder inquiries to promote transparency and effective communication throughout the permitting process.

The essential job functions of this position will require you to navigate rough terrain, use field equipment, operate computers and vehicles, and effectively communicate orally and in writing.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

• Full‑time employment, 37.5 hours per week
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday – Friday, with a 30‑minute lunch
• Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part‑time, up to 3 days per week. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high‑speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Pottsville. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time.
  
  Additional details may be provided during the interview.
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non‑negotiable
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

• Possession of an active Geologist‑in‑Training certificate issued by or acceptable to the Pennsylvania State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists; or
• A bachelor's degree in geology, geophysics, geochemistry, engineering geology, or a closely related field including or supplemented by 30 college credits in geologic coursework; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes 30 college credits in geologic coursework.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree/credits.

• This position requires possession and maintenance of an active Pennsylvania non‑commercial Class C driver’s license or equivalent.

• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for…