Technicians analyze groundwater samples in a laboratory to identify contaminants.
Groundwater remediation jobs require specialized education, licensing or training. A degree in geosciences or hydrogeology; certification from state agencies in which you want to operate; and/or health and safety training, are general requirements for jobs involving the investigation of groundwater contamination. Goundwater remediation projects include remedial alternative designs and evaluations at management levels and construction of groundwater remediation systems at mid-management levels.
Entry level jobs are available working in the field, sampling groundwater to obtain site information or actually installing pump and treat systems. Certification on health and safety protocols for field work is helpful to obtain entry level jobs.
Hydrogeology Jobs
A career path in groundwater remediation begins with a degree from an accredited university in the field of hydrology, geology or geosciences. Through any of these degrees, you learn about groundwater systems, field sampling techniques and relevant computer modeling. Course work generally provides information on groundwater contamination, such as those resulting from pesticide application.
Licenses and Certifications
Thirty-one states license geologists by evaluating work experience and tests. These registration laws make sure that basic geologic principles are used for construction, operation and maintenance of remediation projects. Any candidate must meet the state's regulatory requirements for professional geologist or professional hydrogeologist and then take a test administered by the National Association of State Boards of Geology to receive the appropriate certification.
OSHA Training
A career in groundwater remediation generally begins in the field, sampling groundwater and constructing remediation systems. For either, you need 40 hours of OSHA certification to ensure health and safety when handling potentially hazardous contaminants on the job. Hazardous waste operation and emergency response standards require training for personnel who work at potentially hazardous sites.
Tags: field sampling, groundwater remediation, health safety, field sampling groundwater, groundwater contamination, level jobs, potentially hazardous
