Geologist jobs in Bakersfield, CA

Geologist  

JOB SUMMARY:  

The Geologist plays a significant role in exploration and development of subsurface mineral reserves and water supplies, including development of the well field, to maximize growth, productivity and sustainability of mineral resources. This individual will use advanced scientific, geologic and engineering techniques to perform a range of analytical tasks, such as interpretation of complex hydrogeologic settings, understanding the geochemical interactions between the saline minerals and brines in different layers, and solution mining of the ore body. Compliance with applicable state and federal regulations related to safety and environment is key.  

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:  

1. Produce required raw material to meet production targets. 

• Resources include: saline brine, brackish water and potable water. 

• Assist in managing well field to produce optimal and sustainable well yield and flow.  

• Initiate studies including stratigraphic controls and structural elements and integrate appropriate geologic data to fully develop ore body.  

• Use understanding of geology, chemistry and hydrology to perform mineral resource evaluation, core analysis and geochemical assessment needed for subsurface exploration, development and production.  

• Apply knowledge and expertise to reservoir characterization and well performance projections.  

• Conduct resource reporting, develop reserve models and support presentations of Lake programs and project results.  

• Support planning, execution and reporting of drilling and testing projects.  

2. Manage the resources required for long-term sustainability of the mineral reserve, including exploration. 

• Collect and log soil, brine and mineral samples to define the nature and extent of the saline deposit. 

• Support mineral reserve evaluation work by providing review and critique of pre-existing interpretations and concepts, as well as creating new interpretations; i.e. depositional environment models, type logs, structure maps, isopach maps, cross sections, qualitative well log/mud log/core analysis, annotated bubble maps, etc., as needed. 

• Update ore reserve estimate and prepare long-term strategic plans to optimize the value of mineral resources.  

• Support the exploration and development of the ore body.  

• Perform activities in an efficient manner consistent with company, state and federal health, safety and environmental policies and procedures to achieve production and operations cost goals and ensure a safe work environment. 

• Prepare and present geologic interpretations and provide geologic input for development planning, economic evaluations and optimization.  

3. Perform as Field Geologist.  

• Analyze, evaluate and interpret geological data and prepare recommendations, summaries and cost estimates for consideration by senior management and/or project funding. 

• Stay current with new technology, develop and implement new techniques and approaches related to drilling processes; cannot be afraid to fail and/or test new ideas. 

• Keep abreast of technology changes and the potential impacts on mining techniques and mineral reserves. 

• Liaise with all areas of the mining and processing operation to ensure the delivery of quality geologic information and technical expertise to add value to the Lake business unit. 

4. Be responsible for adhering to SSHE policies, procedures and programs, regulations, and company directives, and actively participate in preventing unsafe acts.   

• Understand the primary SSHE hazards and risks in the work area and the safeguards in place to manage those hazards and risks.   

• Maintain an awareness of SSHE requirements for the specific work area.  Immediately report all SSHE issues to the supervisor.   

• Provide requested information during SSHE internal and external audits.  

QUALIFICATIONS:  

• Bachelor's degree in Geology, Hydrogeology, Mining Engineering or other Geosciences with at least four years of relevant experience in areas such as well field development and production, mining and/or exploration; or equivalent combination of education and experience.  

• Master’s degree in Geoscience is a plus.  

• Broad knowledge of chemistry and hydrology is preferred 

• Demonstrated computer experience with conceptual site models and groundwater flow models is preferred. 

• Able to apply problem-solving and experienced-based judgment to complex challenges in ways that deliver measurable and sustainable improvements in operational performance. 

• Able to manipulate monitoring data including, but not limited to, applying correction factors, calculating units, conversions and conducting statistical analysis.  

• Working knowledge of drilling and subsurface exploration, including well field development and operations. 

• Willingness to work at all levels of the organization as circumstances require.  

• Good understanding of source rock geochemistry, structural geology, natural fracture systems, sedimentology and hydrogeology. 

• Experience with basic engineering techniques and applications specific to drilling preferred.  

• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suite.  

• Strong analytical, verbal, writing and presentation skills required.  

Project management experience is a plus.  

Experience with EPA and BLM regulations is a plus.  

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 

• Requires normal or correctable vision, normal hearing, and manual dexterity. 

• Occasional lifting of up to 50 lbs.  

WORK ENVIRONMENT:  

• Climate controlled office environment with moderate noise levels.  

• Requires up to 40% of work in the field and physical plant areas with exposure to outdoor temperature extremes, loud noise and dust.  

• May be required to drive various vehicles.  

• Occasionally works near moving mechanical parts. 

• Occasional risk of electrical shock. 

• Risk of occasional exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals.  Percent Travel: 5%