Geologist – Entry Level (Hybrid)

Location: Grand Rapids, MI

The role – what you’ll do

Barr is seeking a geologist to join our Grand Rapids office. In this hybrid role, you will support the Assessment and Remediation business unit and undertake challenging and progressive work on projects related to the investigation, evaluation, and remediation of contaminated sites. Assignments may include working as an individual or as part of a project team to assist with environmental site assessments; on-site investigations of contaminated soil, sediment, groundwater, surface water, and vapor; aquifer test performance and analysis; construction observation; development of site conceptual models; and preparation of drilling logs, geologic maps, cross-sections, and technical reports.

On-site investigation tasks may include observing drilling and monitoring well installation, classifying soil and bedrock samples, and collecting samples for field screening and laboratory analysis. Fieldwork opportunities for this position will be year-round and include some out-of-town travel.

The ideal candidate for this position is a clear and confident communicator who thrives in collaborative and independent work environments. They are adaptable, organized, proactive, eager to learn, and comfortable asking thoughtful questions. They bring a high level of attention to detail and take ownership of assigned tasks in dynamic field and office conditions. They demonstrate reliability, safety awareness, and a growth mindset as they build their technical skills and professional judgment. Above all, they value teamwork, quality, and integrity in delivering impactful environmental solutions.

Your impact – key responsibilities

Technical knowledge: apply foundational geology and science principles to support site investigations, environmental sampling, and data collection. Assist in the analysis of environmental data and contribute to the development of remediation approaches.

Project support: help coordinate field activities and logistics, including contractor oversight and equipment preparation. Assist in tracking project progress and documenting key milestones.

Problem solving: contribute to the evaluation of site conditions and identification of potential solutions to environmental challenges. Learn how to apply regulatory knowledge and scientific reasoning to real-world scenarios.

Communication: produce clear field notes, chains-of-custody, internal and external client emails, data summaries, figures, and draft report sections. Provide concise status updates to project managers and stakeholders.

Interpersonal savvy: effectively collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and clients to align technical work with project objectives while fostering strong, productive working relationships.

About the opportunity

Hybrid: a hybrid work arrangement may be considered for this position. A hybrid work arrangement refers to splitting time worked between a Barr office and a home office. This position is based out of Barr's Grand Rapids, Michigan, office.

Travel expectation: willingness to travel and periodically adjust personal schedule to meet project needs (up to 50% travel and 75% fieldwork expected; project needs will vary seasonally and over time).

Work environment: ability to work in locations that may feature rough terrain typical of construction sites and may also require entering and working in facilities that include limited accessibility, moving machinery, and other conditions typical of industrial facilities. Job assignments may involve work on waste disposal sites and sites requiring cleanup of hazardous materials. An OSHA-mandated physical exam may be required. Safety training will be provided. Applicants may be asked to participate in a drug screening program at the request of specific clients. Candidates must be able to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.

Physical requirements for the role will include

Ability to conduct fieldwork in varying outdoor conditions (e.g., heat, cold, rain, uneven terrain).

Must be able to lift and carry equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.

Must be able to work individually in remote locations.

Capable of standing, walking, kneeling, or crouching for extended periods.

Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by site conditions.

Ability to safely operate or work around environmental monitoring and sampling equipment.

About you – required core competencies

Education: bachelor’s degree in geology, hydrogeology, or geological engineering or a related degree.

GPA: minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0.

Software: strong computer skills, including word processing and use of spreadsheets. Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite.

Driver’s license: possession of a current, valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship by Barr, now or in the future.

Helpful additional experience (not required)

Education: master’s degree in geology, hydrogeology, geological engineering or a related degree.

Experience: 1–3 years of experience working on environmental sites.

Training: 40-hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard (HAZWOPER) certification.

Licenses/certifications: fundamentals of Geology (FG) certified or ability to obtain certification within one year.

Familiarity with environmental regulations.

Compensation: anticipated range of $65,000–$75,000 annually. Compensation will vary based on relevant experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors. Employees in this position may also be eligible for a discretionary cash bonus based on team and individual performance. This position is classified as exempt (salaried) under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

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Benefits - what we offer

We are committed to providing an employee experience that attracts and retains top talent. That's why we offer a competitive package of employee