Professional Geologist - Promotional

Position Overview

Position:
Professional Geologist
Reporting:
Natural Resources Division Manager

This recruitment is promotional only. You must presently be a full or part-time regular or probationary County of Sonoma, Community Development Commission, Sonoma County Fairgrounds, or Sonoma County Water Agency employee in order to apply for this position. Permit Sonoma has requested a department promotional certification to fill a Professional Geologist position. Only qualified permanent and/or probationary Permit Sonoma employees on the eligible list may be eligible for referral to the department for the advertised position.

This employment list may also be used to fill future full-time or part-time positions as they occur during the active status of the list.

• Manage complex geological and regulatory projects independently.
• Review permits, prepare reports, attend meetings, and respond to inquiries from internal and external partners.
• Perform geological site inspections, collect field samples, conduct compliance assessments, and execute field-based monitoring activities.
• Serve as the County’s lead for the Aggregate Resource Management (ARM) Program, overseeing program implementation, compliance monitoring, and long‑term planning.
• Prepare and review mining and reclamation plans; develop and recommend mitigation measures for geologic and hydrologic impacts.
• Communicate effectively with county departments, regulatory agencies, and the public; present at public meetings.
• Prepare consultant bid documents and manage contracts.

• Any combination of education, training, and experience that provides the knowledge and abilities listed. Normally includes a degree in geology, engineering, mathematics, physics, or a closely related field with three years of paid experience as a geologist, certified hydrogeologist, professional geophysicist, or geotechnical engineer.
• Valid driver’s license (appropriate level with special endorsements as required).
• Valid certificate of registration as a Professional Geologist, Certified Engineering Geologist, Certified Hydrogeologist, Professional Geophysicist, or Geotechnical Engineer issued by the State of California Board for Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists.

• Broad technical geologic knowledge of geological survey techniques, equipment, subsurface survey methods, and inspection procedures.
• Experience collecting geologic, groundwater, and related data; analyzing data, developing conclusions and recommendations; implementing project safety plans.
• Collaborative teamwork with planners, engineers, code‑enforcement staff, and natural‑resource professionals.
• Thorough knowledge of permitting and environmental review requirements.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills in a dynamic regulatory environment.
• Critical analysis and evaluation of geologic, hydrologic, watershed, and soil reports.
• Presentation skills for boards, commissions, committees, and the public.

Applicants will be evaluated by an Application and Supplemental Questionnaire Appraisal Examination (weight 100%) focusing on relevance of work history, education, experience, knowledge, and abilities that relate to this position.

• Paid time off, vacation accruals, sick leave, 12 paid holidays, floating holiday hours, and paid parental leave.
• Health plans with County contribution to premiums.
• Retirement, IRS 457 Plan, and Retiree Medical benefits.
• Dental, vision, disability, life insurance, professional development, and other benefits.

The County of Sonoma values diversity and is committed to providing a workplace environment that ensures equal opportunity for all individuals. The County is a proud Equal Opportunity Employer.