Geological Engineers

Nature of work

Geological engineers carry out geological and geotechnical studies to assess suitability of locations for civil engineering, mining and oil and gas projects. They plan, design, develop and supervise programs of geological data collection and analysis and prepare geological engineering reports and recommendations. Geological engineers work for consulting engineering companies, electrical utilities, mining and petroleum companies, and in government and research and educational institutions.

Job duties

Geological engineers:

• Plan, develop and coordinate programs of geotechnical, geological, geophysical or geohydrological data collection, analysis and mapping to help in the development of civil engineering, mining, petroleum and waste management projects or for regional development.
• Analyze and prepare recommendations and reports for construction or improvements to foundations of civil engineering projects like rock excavation, pressure grouting and hydraulic channel erosion control.
• Analyze and prepare recommendations and reports on settlement of buildings, stability of slopes and fills, and probable effects of landslides and earthquakes to support construction and civil engineering projects.
• Study groundwater flow and contamination and develop prescriptions for site selection, treatment, and construction.
• Plan, develop, coordinate, and carry out studies in mining exploration, mine evaluation and feasibility studies relative to the mining industry.
• Survey and study ore deposits, ore reserve calculations and mine design.
• Design, develop, and implement computer applications for geophysics, geochemistry, and geology mapping, and related fields.
• Supervise technologists, technicians and other engineers and scientists.

Sample job titles

• geological engineer
• geophysical engineer
• geotechnical engineer
• hydrogeological engineer
• hydrogeology engineer

Skills

• You need persistence and good judgement. The ability to think analytically and logically is important. You must be able to communicate and cooperate with others, as engineers often work in teams. Leadership and problem-solving skills are also necessary. Computer experience is an important asset.

Job requirements

• A bachelor's degree in geological engineering or in a related discipline.
• A master's degree or doctorate in a related engineering discipline may be required.
• Licensing by a provincial association of professional engineers is required to approve engineering drawings and reports and to practice as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.).
• Engineers are eligible for registration following graduation from an accredited educational program, three or four years of supervised work experience in engineering and passing a professional practice examination.

Other considerations

• Geological engineers work closely with geologists and other scientists and engineers, and mobility is possible between some fields of specialization. Supervisory and senior positions in this group require experience. Engineers often work in a multidisciplinary environment and gain knowledge and skills through work experience that may allow them to practice in associated areas of science, engineering, sales, marketing, or management.

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