Job Description
SUMMARY
The Geodetic Engineering Scientist position encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities across the disciplines of geodesy, radar, GNSS, geology, seismology, and electrical engineering. This role bridges hands-on field implementation and scientific research, requiring the ability to independently plan, execute, and manage technically complex projects with limited oversight. The incumbent will lead the installation and maintenance of geodetic and geophysical monitoring systems, including cGNSS, radar calibration targets, and other remote sensor networks, while managing logistical, technical, and personnel elements of field operations.
The position demands advanced technical problem-solving, sound engineering judgment, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions in high-stakes field environments. The Geodetic Engineering Scientist will ensure that all work meets VerQuin’s technical and safety standards while also contributing to ongoing R&D efforts in geodetic instrumentation, telemetry, and radar calibration technologies.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
PROJECT MANAGEMENT & IMPLEMENTATION
- Lead planning, coordination, and execution of complex geophysical and geodetic projects, including scheduling, budgeting, equipment configuration, and client communication.
- Oversee logistics for multi-week domestic and international field deployments, ensuring project milestones are achieved on time and within scope.
- Coordinate procurement, permitting, and mobilization for project installations, managing 3–5 field personnel and subcontractors during active construction.
- Prepare detailed project documentation, including Statements of Work, technical specifications, and safety protocols.
- Monitor and track budgets, expenditures, and resource allocation in collaboration with supervisors.
- Serve as liaison with clients and stakeholders, ensuring expectations and deliverables are aligned.
CONSTRUCTION & FIELD LEADERSHIP
Direct and participate in field construction and installation of geophysical instrumentation including cGNSS stations, radar cal / val targets, seismic equipment, and power / telemetry systems.Develop and enforce safety procedures, JSA reviews, and on-site best practices.Supervise subcontractors (drilling, electrical, mechanical) and coordinate with vendors on-site.Conduct reconnaissance and site assessments for new installations, considering geological stability, accessibility, and power / communications constraints.Lead loading, mobilization, and field readiness, ensuring all tools, enclosures, and materials meet required specifications.Perform troubleshooting, diagnostics, and repair of deployed systems as needed.DESIGN, TESTING & R&D
Design, prototype, and integrate geophysical sensors and telemetry systems to meet diverse project requirements.Develop and test hardware / software interfaces and ensure secure communications between stations and remote data archives.Contribute to internal R&D efforts to improve radar and GNSS measurement reliability, calibration accuracy, and data integrity.Evaluate designs and field data to assess system performance, recommending design modifications or procedural improvements.Generate detailed technical documentation, schematics, and maintenance logs for all system components.COORDINATION & COMMUNICATION
Act as liaison with geodesy and Earth science agencies including California Spatial Reference Center, IERS, NGS, and related partners.Collaborate with fabrication vendors for custom designs, including power enclosures, mounts, and shelters.Ensure all project metadata, photos, and field reports are stored and maintained per VerQuin’s data management standards.Present findings, lessons learned, and technical papers to management and external stakeholders.LEADERSHIP AND SUPERVISION
Provide day-to-day supervision of field personnel and contractors, delegating tasks and ensuring compliance with VerQuin standards.Serve as a mentor and trainer for junior engineers and field staff, promoting technical growth and safety awareness.Participate in the selection and evaluation of subcontractors and team members.Exercise discretion and sound judgment when making operational and technical decisions in the field.Resolve issues proactively, maintaining communication with leadership and clients.EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, geosciences, geodesy, or related field with a minimum of twelve (12) years of relevant experience; or Master’s degree with ten (10) years; or Ph.D. with six (6) years.Professional certifications (e.g., P.G., C.E.G., E.E., P.L.S.) preferred.Demonstrated expertise in geodetic instrumentation, GNSS, radar systems, telemetry, and field integration.Experience managing mid to larger scale technical projects and leading cross-functional teams.Security clearance is a plus.CORE COMPETENCIES
Advanced knowledge of GNSS, radar, and other geophysical measurement systems.Proficiency with cellular, satellite, radio, microwave, and fiber communication systems.Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude; familiarity with fabrication, welding, and construction processes.Ability to lead and motivate teams in challenging field environments.Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.Excellent written and verbal communication across technical and non-technical audiences.Demonstrated integrity, transparency, and commitment to VerQuin’s code of conduct.WORK SCHEDULE
Travel : Approximately one-third to one-half of time, 3–14 days per trip; longer for international assignments.
Workweek : Average of 46 hours per week, adjusted for seasonal and field demands.
Fieldwork : May involve weekends or extended shifts (10–14 hours / day) to accommodate project logistics.
Fair Exchange : When workloads exceed 46 hours / week, additional compensation days or time adjustments may be arranged with supervisor approval.
VerQuin values work-life balance and encourages open dialogue to maintain sustainable workloads.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Sit or stand for extended periods during office work.Regularly lift, carry, or move up to 75 lbs (with assistance for loads up to 125 lbs).Drive and tow trailers safely over long distances.Work outdoors in extreme cold, heat, humidity, or noise; safely navigate rough terrain.Travel by aircraft, boat, off-road vehicle, or helicopter for remote deployments.Maintain endurance for extended field operations in variable conditions.Participate in required safety and technical training (first aid, welding, avalanche, HUET, etc.).MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Analyze and solve complex engineering and logistical problems independently.Organize, prioritize, and adapt to rapidly shifting conditions.Interpret, model, and validate scientific and engineering data.Make informed decisions affecting project safety and outcomes.Apply sound judgment under field pressure, ensuring team safety and mission success.Conduct safety training and uphold VerQuin’s culture of responsibility and professionalism.ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a valid U.S. passport for international travel.Certain assignments may require U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency to comply with federal export-control regulations.Ability to pass background and security clearance checks.Clean driving record and eligibility for vehicle insurance.COMPLIANCE & EMPLOYMENT TERMS
Employment with VerQuin Geodetic Engineering is at-will and may be terminated by either party at any time.
VerQuin is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under applicable law.
VerQuin will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California state law.
Employment is contingent upon completion of a background check and verification of eligibility to work in the United States.
To Apply : Submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to employment@verquin.net with subject line “Geodetic Engineering Scientist Application.”
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