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Discover the Secrets Beneath Your Feet

Based in South Wales, Earth Wise Geology is the professional portfolio of Dafydd Phipps-Magill, a passionate and skilled Engineering Geologist with over 3 years of hands-on experience in ground investigation, earthwork examinations, and site management across complex infrastructure projects.

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Whether you're looking for expertise in soil and rock logging, chalk analysis, or railway infrastructure assessments, Dafydd brings precision, dedication, and a deep understanding of the Earth to every project.

Key Skills

Technical & Field Skills

  • Site investigation and management across diverse project types

  • Development of health and safety method statements and risk assessments

  • Factual reporting and documentation

  • Soil, rock, and chalk logging (fully competent)

  • Support with standard site tasks and operations

  • Second man duties.

Professional & Collaborative Skills

  • Project delivery to specification through practical experience and training

  • Support for project managers and office staff throughout the works package

  • Leadership on large and complex site investigations

  • Strong communication and management skills

  • Reliable, adaptable team player with a hands-on approach

The Geologist Behind The Insights

Dafydd Phipps-Magill | Engineering Geologist | South Wales | 3+ Years Experience

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Dafydd Phipps-Magill is an engineering geologist with a deep-rooted passion for understanding the Earth. Based in South Wales, he brings over three years of experience in ground investigation, site management, and geological analysis across infrastructure projects—particularly within the UK’s railway network.

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His journey into geology began not in a classroom, but in nature, where he explored waterfalls and rock formations with his family. That early curiosity evolved into a professional calling. When faced with a pivotal decision about his future, Dafydd chose geology for its complexity, relevance, and the way it connects every part of life—from construction and transport to environmental sustainability.

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Today, Dafydd combines field expertise with technical precision, utilising tools such as Open Ground, GiNT, and a wide range of field equipment to deliver reliable geological data. He’s known for his hands-on approach, clear communication, and ability to manage teams and subcontractors in high-pressure environments.

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Whether logging soil and rock samples, coordinating multi-phase ground investigations, or ensuring safe and stable site conditions, Dafydd’s work reflects a commitment to quality, safety, and scientific integrity.

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Professional Statement

I am a highly motivated freelance contractor specialising in the rail and construction industry, operating nationwide to support various projects. My expertise includes site management and geological logging to British standards during Phase 1 construction, encompassing a diverse range of sites such as farmland, contaminated land, educational institutions, manufacturing facilities, and government properties.
 

 Additionally, I provide critical support to the rail industry through cyclical earthwork examinations, particularly during the wetter months or when rapid response call-outs are needed. My experience spans across the UK and within the following rail regions: Eastern and Wales&Western.

Expertise, Qualifications & Certifications

Dafydd Phipps-Magill brings a robust set of technical skills and field experience to every project, combining scientific precision with practical know-how. His expertise spans multiple disciplines within engineering geology, making him a versatile and reliable asset in both field and office environments.

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Core Specializations

  • Ground Investigation (GI): Planning, executing, and managing GI programs for infrastructure projects, including railways and urban developments.

  • Earthwork Examinations: Detailed assessments of soil and rock conditions to support safe and sustainable construction, particularly within railway corridors.

  • Soil & Rock Logging: Accurate classification and documentation of geological materials using industry-standard methods, essential for geotechnical design and risk assessment.

  • Chalk Logging: Specialised experience in logging and interpreting chalk formations, a critical skill for projects in southern England and other chalk-rich regions.

  • Site Management: Proven leadership in coordinating large teams and subcontractors, ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance on active construction sites.

Software Proficiency

  • Open Ground: Used for managing borehole data, logging, and reporting in ground investigation workflows.

  • GiNT: For creating detailed geological logs and integrating field data into structured reports.

  • Microsoft Office Suite: For documentation, scheduling, data analysis, and client communication.


Field Equipment Familiarity

  • Gas Monitoring Equipment – for assessing subsurface gas conditions.

  • LoFlo Systems – for low-flow groundwater sampling.

  • Troll Divers – for water level and quality monitoring.

  • Handheld DCP (Dynamic Cone Penetrometer) – for rapid soil strength testing.

  • Shear Vane – for measuring undrained shear strength in cohesive soils.

  • Lightweight Deflectometer – for evaluating surface compaction and stiffness.

  • Thermal Resistivity Probes – for assessing heat transfer properties in soils and rocks.
     

Professional Strengths

  • Strong analytical mindset with attention to detail.

  • Effective communicator with clients, contractors, and multidisciplinary teams.

  • Adaptable to challenging site conditions and dynamic project requirements.

  • Committed to safety, quality, and continuous learning.

Qualifications

  • IRATA Level 1 

  • PTS (Personal Track Safety)

  • IWA (Individual Working Alone)

  • SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme)

  • Cat and Genny

  • First Aid at Work (3 Day)

  • Soil and Rock Descriptions Course

  • CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme)

  • Asbestos Awareness

  • Manual Handling

  • BSc (Hons), University of Brighton

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