Case studies: Engineering geologist: Theo

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Theo studied environmental geology at university. He is now working as an engineering geologist.

My interest in geology was triggered by a GCSE and A-level in the subject. I initially studied for a BSc Honours in Environmental Geology at university. It was a wide ranging course covering structural, engineering, environmental, palaeontology, geophysics and exploration geochemistry. My course was also one of only a handful in the country that ran 100 days of fieldwork over its three year duration and was recognised by the Geological Society. Doing hard rock geology, field techniques, geochemistry, engineering properties of soils and hydrogeology gave me a good understanding of the basic principles of each subject, which was useful when starting my first job in consultancy.

My final year project was entitled ‘Leachate: Rock Interaction Geochemistry’ and centred upon looking at the physical effects landfill leachate had on sodium bentonite landfill liners. I obtained industrial sponsorship from The Institute of Wastes Management, as this was a ‘hot topic’ at the time. After completing my degree I remained at university to continue this research then moved to another to start on a Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) funded studentship, where I obtained an MPhil.

My first job was as a geo-environmental engineer in the North East. As a first job the level of work was fairly basic, carrying out routine monitoring and assessment of groundwater and soil gas data, some geotechnical and hydrogeological computer modelling, as well as report writing. I undertook various Phase I ‘desk studies’ (such as reviewing available information on mining history, former site uses and contamination) and subsequent Phase II investigations (such as supervision of mechanical excavators, drill rigs, sampling and testing).

I switched to a larger environmental consultancy, taking on a position as an environmental scientist. Work involved both wastes management and environmental projects (contamination and radiological) for private and public sector clients. Following about a year working for waste (on landfill sites) I joined the environment group (doing site investigations primarily) but becoming increasingly involved with the nuclear sector also.

I am now a geological engineer for a consulting engineering firm that specialises in providing bespoke engineering solutions to house builders. Work comprises general site investigation, drilling for historic mine workings (with treatment where necessary), contaminated land, remediation, foundations design, client and regulatory liaison. In the time I have spent with them I have become increasingly involved in project management, supervising graduate engineers and overseeing projects from conception to completion. I have to carry out technical and managerial duties including client liaison and marketing of core business areas to planning consultants, land agents and design and build contractors on a nationwide basis, in addition to the procurement and tendering of projects and budgetary control. In addition I have become an external supervisor to MSc hydrogeology students.

To progress to junior/middle management (principal grade) you need to have the knowledge and ability to source factual information, evaluate findings, draw conclusions and make effective recommendations on the basis of data, or the situation as it presents itself on-site. This can only be gained by experience and the continual updating of skills through courses and further study. Problems need to be dealt with in a technical, resourceful and analytical manner, reviewing methods to achieve the desired objective. Work has to be completed ensuring project quality is consistent with company guidelines, policies and regulatory frameworks. Excellent organisational abilities, being dependable and having a professional approach to work is therefore needed.

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