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Hydrogeologist
Hydrogeologist
Blake O' Sullivan
Blake O' Sullivan
What is your job title?
Hydrogeologist
What qualification do you have?
GCSEs, A-Levels (Geography, Biology and Graphics), BSc (Hons) Geology and Geography with year abroad, and MSc Geophysical Hazards
What sort of organisation do you work for?
Environmental and Mining Consultancy
What does a Hydrogeologist do?
As a Hydrogeologist, I undertake surface and ground investigations, borehole construction supervision, and monitoring of surface water and ground water. This data is collated to enable us to understand the hydrogeology and hydrology of a Site, so we can develop conceptual site models that allow us to conceptualize the pathways of which water flow across a site (above and below ground), the levels of groundwater, the quality of the water, and how the water environment supports its surrounding ecosystem. This information allows us to prepare reports, such as environmental impact assessments, hydrological risk assessments and others. Due to the nature of the work, field work is very common, such as hydrological site walkovers, borehole supervision, water sampling and often engaging with the public and stakeholders. All these works are undertaken on a wide engage of projects from renewables, mixed-use residentials and mineral extraction.
What formal qualifications and/or previous work experience did you need to get your job?
As it was a graduate role, no prior experience was needed other than a Bachelor’s degree in Geology or related area and a Masters in Hydrogeology or related area was desired. Although I had limited hydrogeological experience through university, a keen interested and fundamentals of geology is enough to thrive in this sector.
Apart from formal qualifications, what other skills or characteristics do you need in your role?
A UK driving license , love for the outdoors and an inquisitive and interdisciplinary mind.
"Getting out in the field and exploring different parts of the UK is a big highlight as no day is the same."
"Getting out in the field and exploring different parts of the UK is a big highlight as no day is the same."
Where else could you work as a Hydrogeologist?
Government (e.g., Environment Agency), University (e.g., research), and other consultancies (e.g., Engineering firms).
Do you travel, either within the UK or overseas, in your role?
Yes, I travel on average once a month within the UK from the highlands to Devon. However, it can vary month to month. Others within my team travel abroad from Madagascar to Armenia.
Do you work a regular length day/week, or are shifts involved?
Yes, I work a regular 9 - 5pm, but when site work is required, some days are longer.
What do you enjoy about your job?
I enjoy the conceptualization and interdisciplinary of what is going on below and above the Site. The interconnected relationship of the environment is a beautiful thing even when you can’t directly see it. Getting out in the field and exploring different parts of the UK is a big highlight as no day is the same.
What advice or extra information do you wish you’d had before starting this career?
I wish I knew more about the consultancy world, as I was a bit naive going into it.
What opportunities do you have for developing your skills in your current role?
My company put on training course relating to general consultancy, such as report writing and public speaking, but also hydrogeology related course such as water sampling, drilling methods and groundwater level monitoring. I have also had the opportunity to attend Ineson Lectures at the Geological Society put on by the Hydrogeological Group.
What position would you like to hold in 5 years time?
I hope to hold a senior or principal Hydrogeologist position, as I gain more skills and confidence in this sector.
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