Geologist/Hydrologist I

The State of South Carolina is hiring a Geologist/Hydrologist I to protect human health and the environment by enforcing hazardous waste regulations. Responsibilities include reviewing permits, conducting inspections, and maintaining compliance records. A bachelor's degree in geology or related fields is required, along with knowledge of hydrogeologic principles. The position involves daily travel within the state and may require out-of-state travel. This is not a remote position.
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Science|Service| Sustainability

Under direct supervision, the Geologist/Hydrologist I ensure protection of human health and the environment by implementing the S.C. Hazardous Waste Management Regulations, the S.C. Water Classifications and Standards, S.C. Pollution Control Act and other applicable State and Federal requirements. Provide administrative and technical review on permitting and corrective action activities.

Job Responsibilities:
• Assist in reviewing hazardous waste permitting and corrective action documents. Support senior staff by checking documents for compliance with the S.C. Hazardous Waste Management Regulations, the S.C. Pollution Control Act, the S.C. Waste Classification and Standards, and the S.C. Well Standards. Help prepare clear, written comments based on findings.
• Participate or conduct RCRA groundwater compliance inspections and site visits at hazardous waste management facilities. Help evaluate groundwater monitoring and corrective action systems under the guidance of experienced staff. Review facility files for accuracy and completeness. Observe basic well inspections and assist with groundwater sampling activities. Coordinate with Compliance, Permitting, Enforcement, and regional staff as needed. Assist in preparing timely written reports.
• Help track facility compliance with permit conditions, orders, and applicable regulations. Maintain administrative and electronic records in accordance with Bureau policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of program goals.

A bachelor's degree in geology, hydrology, hydrogeology or geological engineering and experience in conducting geologic or hydrologic investigations.

Additional Requirements:
• Knowledge of hydrogeologic principles and the geology of S.C (formal education or experience).
• Knowledge of contaminant transport mechanisms. Knowledge of S.C. Hazardous Waste Management Regulations.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Ability to interpret hydrologic and water quality data.
• Ability to work independently to plan, coordinate and direct complicated geologic or hydrogeologic investigations.
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle and have a valid S.C. Driver's License.
• Ability to access non-traditional work environments.
• May require:
• Daily travel throughout the state.
• Occasional out-of-state and overnight travel.

Institutions of Higher Learning must be recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

Applicants indicating college credit or degree(s) on the application are encouraged to upload an unofficial copy of the transcript as an attachment to the application. Please note that the agency may require an official, certified copy of the transcript or diploma prior to hiring.
• Geologist-in-Training Certification (GIT)

SCDES is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including, but not limited, to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.

The Department will not sponsor H1B visas for this position.

The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services offers an exceptional benefits package for full time (FTE) employees:
• Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children. Click here for additional information.
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• Paid parental leave
• S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available (S.C. Deferred Compensation)
• Retirement benefit choices *
• State Retirement Plan (SCRS)
• State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP)
• Remote Work:The option to work remotely 2 days per week is available after successful completion of 1 year of employment with SCDES, based on job functions.
• Enrollment in one of the listed plans is required for all FTE employees; please refer to the contribution section of hyperlinked retirement sites for the current contribution rate of gross pay.