Ensuring isolation for one million years; Radioactive waste needs to be stored in isolation for the next one million years. This can only be achieved through a deep geological repository. In Switzerland, Nagra is working towards the construction licence for such a pioneering facility. To strengthen our Dynamic Repository Modelling team, we are looking for…
Location: Wettingen, Switzerland
Geotechnical Geologist – Geomechanical Modeller (f/m/d)
The Geotechnical Geologist – Geomechanical Modeller plays a key role within the Integrated Geological Model (IGM) team, serving as a key interface between geological and geotechnical disciplines.
By contributing to the integrated static model building in the IGM team, this role supports safety assessments, underground construction, and repository design; by providing a consistent, integrated geomechanical basis tailored to the requirements of the various disciplines/stakeholders.
Your responsibilities
* Geomodelling: Collaborate with geologists, geomechanical specialists, civil engineers, and safety analysts to integrate geomechanical and geotechnical data (e.g., Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio, cohesion, friction angle, etc.) derived from seismic, well logs, experiments, analogues and core data into the IGM framework
* Contribute to the continuous development of the IGM as a central source of geological and geotechnical knowledge
* Integrate the subsurface static models with:
* Reservoir simulators of any kind, e.g. geomechanical or hydro-fluid flow simulators
* Building Information Modelling (BIM) tools to support engineering design
* Dynamic Repository Models to support performance and safety assessment
* Geotechnical: Support the evaluation of subsurface conditions to guide geo-operational site investigations and assess ground stability, groundwater conditions, and geohazards relevant to tunnel design and long-term performance
* Liaison between the IGM and engineering teams to ensure effective communication and knowledge transfer
* General: Assist in preparing documentation for safety cases, regulatory submissions, and internal technical reviews
Required qualifications and skills
* University degree in civil engineering, geomechanics, engineering geology or a related field; a related PhD is highly desirable
* Hands-on experience with geomechanical modelling tools, preferably Petrel, and/or finite element software
* Experience in geotechnical modelling and stability analysis of underground structures would be an asset
* Strong foundation in rock mechanics, soil behaviour, and principles of underground construction
* Excellent communication skills in English; proficiency in German is an asset
* Strong technical and scientific writing skills, particularly in English, for producing technical notes, reports, and publications
* Ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams and translate complex geological data into formats relevant for applications in the fields given above
* Experience in collaborative, cross-functional, or international project environments is a plus
What we offer
* Unique opportunity to work on a large, pioneering project with globally significant societal impact
* A collaborative, knowledge-rich environment with world-class experts in geoscience, engineering, and safety assessment
* Access to advanced computational tools, high-performance computing, and cutting-edge research and innovation centres
* A culture that values innovation, technical excellence, and societal responsibility
If you would like to contribute to Switzerland's solution to the disposal of radioactive waste and are an enthusiastic modelling specialist, please send your complete application documents by email to Ms. Katja Blechschmidt, Human Resources Manager ), Job-ID For technical information, please contact the responsible expert, Dr. Valentina Zampetti ).