Role Overview
The Senior Site/Field Geologist provides advanced geological and geotechnical expertise to support dam and hydropower projects, with a strong focus on dam foundations and underground works (tunnels caverns), from pre-feasibility through to construction stage.
The senior geologist is responsible for the design and supervision of site investigations (including geological mapping) with the aim of developing geological/geotechnical ground models, including the evaluation of rock material parameters, rock mass parameters, hydrogeological models, the sourcing of construction materials and construction-stage geological support to ensure good design, stability, and constructability of dams and underground structures.
The position works closely with design engineers, geotechnical specialists, and construction teams to identify, assess, and communicate geological hazards throughout the project lifecycle. The senior Geologist will be expected to spend time in the office as required to assist in the preparation of design reports.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan, supervise, and interpret geological and geotechnical investigations including surface mapping, borehole logging, core assessment, rock mass classification, groundwater evaluation, and identification of geological hazards relevant to dam foundations and underground works.
- Provide geological input to the design of dams, tunnels, underground caverns, and powerhouses, including foundation assessment, rock mass characterization, fault and discontinuity analysis, seepage conditions, and ground behavior relevant to design assumptions and constructability.
- Deliver on-site geological support during excavation, tunnelling, and foundation preparation, verifying actual ground conditions against design expectations and recommending design adaptations or construction measures where required. This includes supervision of construction-stage geological mapping, documentation, and interpretation.
- Support and supervise foundation treatment and ground improvement works, including grouting, consolidation, curtain grouting, and seepage control measures for dam foundations and underground structures.
- Prepare and review geological and geotechnical sections of feasibility studies, Geological Data Reports (GDR), Geological Interpretative Reports (GIR), Geotechnical Baseline Reports (GBR), and construction-stage reports, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and compliance with project standards.
- Coordinate closely with civil, geotechnical, and structural engineers, and liaise with contractors, drilling teams, and investigation consultants to ensure effective integration of geological inputs into design and construction decisions.
- Communicate geological findings, risks, and recommendations clearly and effectively to project stakeholders, supporting decision-making during both design development and construction execution.
- Ensure all geological activities comply with HSE requirements, site safety regulations, local legislation, and applicable international standards, and participate in risk assessments, method statements, and safety meetings.