Hydrologist and Geologist
U.S. Forest Service, San Diego, CA

November 2026

Working for the Forest Service involves wearing many ‘hats’ and the opportunity to have technical work with immense variety! I provide hydrologic expertise for trails, forestry, ecological restoration, habitat protection, roads and utilities management, and more. I manage the geology program for the forest, involving abandoned mine hazard mitigation, geologic resources inventory for features like caves and uncommon fossils, and monitoring groundwater springs. Seasonally, I conduct post-wildfire hazard assessments focused on evaluating potential for debris flows, landslides, and other geohazards.  The USFS partners with the USGS for debris flow modeling and sharing of data. My day-to-day is a blend of hands-on field work, writing environmental compliance documents, data management, and lots of team work with other scientists, the tribes, other public agencies, and members of the public. Never bored, always busy, and stewarding beautiful outdoor places!