Geologist/UIC Specialist (Environmental Scientist II)

The State of Utah is hiring a Geologist/UIC Specialist (Environmental Scientist II) to oversee underground injection wells in the petroleum industry, ensuring compliance with EPA regulations and protection of Underground Sources of Drinking Water. Responsibilities include processing UIC applications, preparing EPA reports, inspecting wells, and addressing non-compliance issues. Candidates should have a degree in environmental science or geology, experience in the oil and gas industry, and strong communication skills. This role contributes to responsible industry development while safeguarding the environment.
About the position

The Division of Oil, Gas and Mining is seeking a Geologist/UIC Environmental Scientist II who will play a crucial role in overseeing underground injection wells related to the petroleum industry in Utah. This position is integral to ensuring that injection wells protect Underground Sources of Drinking Water (USDWs) in compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations. The successful candidate will work closely with Division staff, management, and industry stakeholders to maintain the integrity of the Underground Injection Control (UIC) program. This role involves a variety of responsibilities, including processing UIC applications and permits, preparing reports for the EPA, and ensuring compliance with state laws regarding UIC activities. The position also requires providing oversight and assistance to well-inspection staff, advising on standard operating procedures, and addressing non-compliance issues. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in environmental science, geology, or a related field, along with experience in the oil and gas industry, particularly in areas related to underground injection and waste management. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the responsible development of the oil and gas industry in Utah while ensuring environmental protection.

Responsibilities
• Process and organize Underground Injection Control (UIC) applications and permits
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• Prepare and submit required reports to the EPA
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• Ensure compliance with applicable state law regarding UIC activities
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• Complete required UIC program reporting
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• Provide oversight and assistance to Class II and Class VI well-inspection staff
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• Advise Division and provide oversight on Class II and Class VI Standard Operating Procedures and Guidance Documents
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• Advise Division project management on UIC forms, workflow and electronic enhancements
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• Provide oversight for, or complete review of Underground Injection Control (UIC) permits
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• Provide oversight for, or complete UIC-related inspections at Saltwater Disposal wells (SWDs), Enhanced Oil Recovery wells (EORs), CO2 Sequestration wells, and Hydrocarbon Storage wells
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• Respond to the public, landowners, other regulatory agencies, and oil and gas operators
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• Prepare reports and document observations using database applications, photographs, and GIS applications
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• Address non-compliance issues
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• Testify as a witness in Board hearings
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• Represent the Division at community meetings and other agency meetings

Requirements
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
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• Ability to deal with people professionally
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• Prior experience complying with or implementing environmental regulations
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• A degree in environmental science, engineering, geology, or a related natural science field
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• Oil and gas industry experience in underground injection, produced water, drilling, production, transportation, or waste management
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• Oil and gas industry experience in geologic evaluations or petroleum engineering
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• Regulatory experience involving permitting and technical review of UIC Wells
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• Experience complying with or implementing environmental regulations
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• Proficient with common computer programs such as Microsoft Office products (Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Adobe, ESRI or other mapping applications, specialized geologic/hydrologic software, internet browsers, etc.

Nice-to-haves
• Professional certification or training related to the oil and gas industry
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• Prior oil and gas regulatory experience

Benefits
• Health Insurance - Public Employee Health Program (PEHP) with multiple plan options
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• Dental and vision plan options
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• Retirement options through Utah Retirement Systems (URS)
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• Paid Time Off including annual leave and sick leave
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• 12 paid holidays