Embedded Files
Senior Engineering Geologist
Senior Engineering Geologist
Jessica T Smith
Jessica T Smith
What is your job title?
Senior Engineering Geologist
What qualifications do you have?
7 Highers, BSc (Hons) Earth Science (2:1), MSc DIC Engineering Geology
What sort of organisation do you work for?
I work for a renewable energy developer and generator
What does a Senior Engineering Geologist do?
As an Engineering Geologist, I use my geological knowledge to manage and mitigate risks from the ground to civil engineering projects. Engineering Geologists use different techniques to help them to characterise the ground and understand its behaviour. These findings are then used to determine how civil engineering projects can be built safely and if anything special needs to be done to enable this to happen. As a Technical Authority for Engineering Geology I have a senior role that is important for risk management and decision making on projects.
What skills or characteristics do you need in your role?
Effective communication is an essential skill, particularly as much of my work requirements engagement with people who may not have a geological or engineering background.
Where else could you work as a Senior Engineering Geologist?
Engineering Geologists can work around the world. The organisations that they typically work for are engineering contractor companies and engineering consultancies.
Have you had a career break or career change?
Following completion of my BSc I worked as a Graduate Geoscientist for one year. I used the money to book flights to Canada and spent a year in Vancouver on a working holiday visa. I joined a temping agency and ended up spending most of the year working in a large engineering company as a Project Administrator. I also took a year out to complete my MSc full time.
Do you work a regular length day/week, or are shifts involved?
I work a regular 40 hours week, Monday to Friday. In the past, site commitments have meant that I often worked Saturdays.
"I am fortunate as my work often takes me to scenic and interesting areas."
"I am fortunate as my work often takes me to scenic and interesting areas."
Do you travel, either within the UK or overseas, in your role?
Most of the projects that I work on are in Scotland and I get to travel to those locations. The frequency of the visits vary depending on the work - in 2023/24 I travelled to the Highlands of Scotland for a few days once every fortnight but in 2025 I tend to travel to the Highlands once every two months. In previous roles I have been based outside of the UK and have also had opportunities for short work trips in Europe.
What do you enjoy about your job?
I enjoy the flexibility of spending time in the office and spending time on site. I am fortunate as my work often takes me to scenic and interesting areas.
What advice or extra information do you wish you’d had before starting this career?
I wish that I had known that the role existed!
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse