An engineering geologist is a geologist trained and experienced in the discipline of engineering geology. Many states in the United States, foreign governments and professional organizations have programs for the qualification, testing and certification of engineering geologists as a protection to public.

Engineering geology may support civil engineering, especially geotechnical engineering, or geological engineering. The difference between geological engineering and engineering geology is real: geological engineers are licensed as engineers, engineering geologists are licensed in states as geologists.

Characteristics of an Engineering Geologist

1. Observation skills: Ability to observe and understand the important physical features, as well as the small, subtle and seemingly unimportant features. Ability to listen and take good notes. 2. Spatial skills: Ability to visualize and draw geologic structures (for example faults, bedding planes, landslides, jointing, etc.) in 3-dimensions. 3. Problem solving: Desire to analyze and solve problems. 4. Scientific curiosity: Desire to know the truth regardless of whether or not it agrees with your original idea about something. 5. Open mind: Ability to withhold your final judgment until all data has been gathered and analyzed. 6. Writing and communications: Ability to write and communicate geologic and engineering ideas to other geologists, engineers, non-specialists and the public. 7. Math and computer skills: Ability to quantify and analyze data and results. 8. Team player: Ability to work in teams and get along with others. 9. Desire to work outdoors: The reason why many students become engineering geologists. 10. Professional Ethics.

Education

Education of Engineering Geologists requires a college degree, such as a Bachelors, Masters in Geology, or Geological Engineering . Course work in Geophysics, Seismology, Hydrogeology, Soil Mechanics , and Geotechnical Engineering is also helpful. A PhD is required for certain university teaching and research positions and certain governmental positions.