Become a Lead Geologist with the Bureau of Reclamation
Are you ready to take your career to the next level within the Department of the Interior? The Bureau of Reclamation is looking for a senior-level Geologist to join our Technical Service Center in Lakewood, Colorado. This is a unique opportunity to influence national infrastructure safety while working with some of the most respected engineering geologists in the field.
Job Responsibilities
As a GS-14 Geologist, your primary duties will center on the technical oversight of engineering geology programs. Key responsibilities include:
- Serving as a Safety of Dams (SOD) advisor.
- Conducting expert reviews and interpretations of engineering geology evaluations.
- Overseeing the characterization of soil, rock, and man-made materials.
- Providing authoritative technical recommendations for large-scale civil infrastructure projects.
Comparison: Standard Geologist vs. Senior Engineering Geologist
| Feature | Standard Geologist | Senior Engineering Geologist (GS-14) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Project execution | Programmatic oversight & policy guidance |
| Focus | Data collection | SOD Risk Management & Construction phase |
| Responsibility | Field data analysis | Authoritative technical review & approval |
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A degree in geology plus 20 semester hours of related science coursework.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level.
- Status: U.S. citizenship is required.
Salary Overview
The salary range for this position is $140,239 – $182,316 annually, commensurate with your experience and the established federal GS pay scale.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Robust health insurance options.
- A generous retirement system.
- Competitive leave accrual (vacation and sick time).
- Opportunities for flexible work environments, including telework.
Application Tips
Your application is your first chance to make an impression. Ensure your two-page resume clearly documents your specialized experience using the month-year format. Always double-check your documents against the requirements list to avoid disqualification due to an incomplete package.
This role is more than just a job; it is a chance to contribute to the safety and longevity of the nation’s infrastructure. Apply by November 11, 2026, to be considered for this high-impact position in Lakewood, Colorado.
Why This Geologist Job Matters
Join the Bureau of Reclamation as a Geologist and play a pivotal role in the safety and integrity of the nation's critical water infrastructure.
Geologist Job Overview
The Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation is seeking an experienced Geologist to join the Technical Service Center in Lakewood, Colorado. In this high-impact GS-14 role, you will provide senior-level technical expertise in engineering geology, supporting the Safety of Dams (SOD) risk management process and critical civil infrastructure projects. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead geologic investigations and provide authoritative guidance that ensures the long-term sustainability and safety of water-related resources across the United States.
Requirements for Geologist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Successfully pass a background investigation.
- Must be registered for Selective Service (for males born after 12-31-59).
- Participation in Direct Deposit is mandatory.
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
- Completion of E-Verify employment verification.
- Degree in geology plus 20 additional semester hours in related sciences (math, physics, chemistry, engineering, etc.) or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Preferred Qualifications for Geologist
- One full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 grade level in the federal service.
- Expertise in engineering geologic characterization of soil, rock, and man-made materials.
- Proven track record in managing or participating in Safety of Dams risk management processes.
- Demonstrated ability to lead the planning and execution of complex engineering geological investigation programs.
- Strong background in independent review of final design documents and construction specifications.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Health and life insurance options
- ✓Retirement program participation (FERS)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- ✓Telework opportunities (with supervisor approval)
- ✓Professional development and training programs
💡 How to Apply Geologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Geologist Job
- Create or update your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, adhering to specific font and margin requirements.
- Complete the required online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents, including transcripts and SF-50 forms if applicable.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of November 11, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly mentions hours worked per week to verify specialized experience.
- Follow the formatting rules for your resume (two-page limit, 10-point font, 0.5-inch margins).
- Review your performance appraisals and awards to ensure they are current (within the last 18 months for appraisals).
- Do not include personal photographs or Adobe portfolio files in your submission.
- Double-check that all required SF-50 forms are included if you are a current or former federal employee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this Geologist position?
The position focuses on engineering geology, specifically related to the Bureau of Reclamation’s Safety of Dams program, construction management, and the characterization of materials for civil infrastructure projects.
Is travel required for this role?
Yes, approximately 25% of the position involves field work in potentially remote areas, which may require hiking, use of 4-wheel drive vehicles, or travel via helicopter/boat.
Can I work remotely?
The position is eligible for telework, subject to supervisor approval and departmental policies.
What is the closing date?
All applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on November 11, 2026.
Are there physical requirements?
Yes, you may be required to hike uneven terrain and lift up to 50 lbs during field assignments.
Job from Bureau Of Reclamation
The Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) is a cornerstone of the American West. Our mission is to manage, develop, and protect water and related resources in an environmentally and economically sound manner. By joining our team, you become part of an organization dedicated to the sustainability of the nation's most precious resource: water.