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Numerical Modeling Geology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bangor Position Number: 08300-1866 Position Type: Full Time/Year-Round Class Code: 6410 Grade: 19 ... Understanding of Conceptual Site Models. * Familiarity with GPS equipment. * Familiarity with ...

Have advanced working knowledge of Bay Area and California geology and soil conditions, including ... Knowledge of advanced numerical modeling techniques such as Finite Difference, Finite Element ...

Have advanced working knowledge of Bay Area and California geology and soil conditions, including ... Knowledge of advanced numerical modeling techniques such as Finite Difference, Finite Element ...

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Numerical Modeling Geology information

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$13.5K

$114K

$169.5K

How much do numerical modeling geology jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for numerical modeling geology in the United States is $114,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,500.00 and $137,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is numerical modeling in geology?

Numerical modeling in geology involves using mathematical models and computer simulations to replicate and study geological processes, such as groundwater flow, rock deformation, or sediment transport. These models help geologists predict how geological systems behave under various conditions and over time. Numerical modeling is essential for understanding complex Earth processes that are difficult or impossible to observe directly, and it supports decision-making in fields like environmental management, oil and gas exploration, and hazard assessment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Numerical Modeling Geologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Numerical Modeling Geologist, you need a strong background in geology, mathematics, and computational modeling, usually supported by a relevant degree such as geology, geophysics, or earth sciences. Proficiency with modeling software (such as Petrel, MATLAB, or COMSOL Multiphysics) and experience with data analysis or programming languages like Python are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you interpret complex data and present findings clearly to stakeholders. These skills are crucial for accurately simulating geological processes and informing decisions in exploration, resource management, or environmental assessment.

What are some typical challenges Numerical Modeling Geologists face when integrating field data into their simulation models?

Numerical Modeling Geologists often encounter challenges when translating complex field data, such as core samples and seismic surveys, into accurate digital representations for their models. Variability and uncertainty in geological data can make calibration and validation of models time-consuming. Additionally, effective collaboration with field geologists, engineers, and IT specialists is crucial to ensure data consistency and model reliability, requiring strong communication and multidisciplinary teamwork skills.

What is the difference between Numerical Modeling Geology vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectNumerical Modeling GeologyGeotechnical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, Geotechnical Engineering, or related field; proficiency in modeling softwareBachelor's or Master's in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering; engineering licensure often preferred
Work EnvironmentField sites, laboratories, and computer-based modeling environmentsConstruction sites, laboratories, and consulting offices
Industry UsageMining, oil & gas, environmental consulting, and researchConstruction, infrastructure projects, and foundation design

Numerical Modeling Geology focuses on creating computer models to analyze geological data, while Geotechnical Engineers apply engineering principles to design foundations and assess ground stability. Both roles require strong technical skills but differ in their primary focus and work settings.

Infographic showing various Numerical Modeling Geology job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 36% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,022 per year, or $54.8 per hour.
Senior Hydrogeologist/Groundwater Modeler - Environmental Services (Kansas City)

Senior Hydrogeologist/Groundwater Modeler - Environmental Services (Kansas City)

Burns & McDonnell

Kansas City, MO • On-site

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Burns & McDonnell rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 78 rated construction


Job description

As a part of the Remediation Department within Burns & McDonnell's Environmental Services group, the Senior Hydrogeologist/Groundwater Modeler will support a wide variety of projects involving clean and contaminated groundwater on a nationwide/global basis. The Senior Hydrogeologist/Groundwater Modeler will have exemplary skills and knowledge of Hydrogeology including an extensive and practical expertise with the MODFLOW suite of software, and the ability to apply those skills to real-world projects involving groundwater flow, contaminant transport, and soil/groundwater contaminant remediation in a variety of geologic settings. Additional experience with Leapfrog is preferred. Technical knowledge, leadership, and communications skills are key aspects of this position. Individuals should be team-focused and should be well-connected in the water and environmental industry, with the ability to expand our client base.

Responsibilities:

  • Provide senior technical support for a variety of projects including groundwater flow in complex geologic settings, contaminant fate and transport modeling, geospatial data analysis and visualization, contaminant hydrogeology, groundwater remediation, hydrogeological assessments, groundwater sustainability, permitting and environmental impact assessments.

  • Demonstrate proficiency in developing, calibrating, and running both steady-state and transient groundwater flow models using various MODFLOW versions, including MODFLOW-2005, USG, and MODFLOW 6, is highly desirable. Be adept at utilizing associated programs for particle tracking (MODPATH) and flow budget analysis (ZONEBUDGET) and have a strong background in model calibration and uncertainty analysis, utilizing software such as PEST.

  • Experience in characterizing the physical and hydraulic properties of the vadose zone and applying numerical models, such as HYDRUS or the MODFLOW Unsaturated-Zone Flow (UZF) Package, to simulate water movement and contaminant transport is preferred.

  • Proficiency in programming and scripting, preferably with python, for data analysis and model automation is desired.

  • Collaborate closely with Geologists, Engineers, Project Managers, and Program Managers.

  • Manage, design, execute, and supervise groundwater data analysis and groundwater modeling scopes on multidisciplinary projects, including Hydrogeologic Investigations, Feasibility Studies, development of Conceptual Site Models, Regulatory Compliance and Permitting; and Soil and Groundwater Contaminant Remediation.

  • Prepare and/or provide senior review of technical correspondence, project scope and cost proposals, technical reports, memorandums, work plans, and project specifications.

  • Project management and execution, including the development and maintenance of project scopes, schedules and budgets, and coordination of team members.

  • Communicate effectively with peers, clients, and regulators; demonstrate strong written, verbal, computer, and interpersonal skills.

  • Support team business development activities including client interaction and customer relationship management, contribute to business development plans, identify markets/potential clients and related sales targets, and assist the team in preparing responses to Requests For Proposals and Request For Qualifications.

  • Train, mentor, and develop junior and intermediate staff.

  • All other duties as assigned.

  • Bachelor's degree in Geology, Hydrogeology, or a related field from an accredited curriculum.

  • Minimum 8 years related experience showing proficiency in hydrogeological field investigations, aquifer analysis, and well design.

  • Ten years of experience in hydrogeology and groundwater modeling projects preferred.

  • Extensive experience with building, calibrating, and optimizing numerical groundwater flow and contaminant transport models using commercial modeling software, (such as MODFLOW, MT3D, and Groundwater Vistas).

  • Outstanding understanding of hydrogeology and its applications.

  • Ability to present complex technical information clearly, both verbally and in writing.

  • Supervisory, project management, and client management experience.

  • Aptitude, capability, and inclination to train, mentor, and develop junior and intermediate staff.

  • Professional Geologist and/or Certified Hydrogeologist registration, or eligibility for registration is desirable.
     

    EEO/Disabled/Veterans

 


 


 


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About Burns & McDonnell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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