Geologist

About the role

The Colorado Geological Survey is seeking a qualified candidate to perform geologic field mapping, collect geologic field data, prepare and create geologic maps, examine deposits for their mineral resource and geologic hazard potential, and contribute to and publish geologic maps and reports. Travel to conduct field work at remote sites will be required. The successful candidate will have a focus on field geologic mapping.

Responsibilities

• Geologic Field Mapping and Map Production (95%)
  • Perform geologic field mapping in a variety of geologic terranes under the direction of the Geologic Mapping Program Supervisor.
  • Compile geologic field information for publication in GIS and written reports.
  • Analyze geologic, geologic hazard, mineral, and water resources data, and publish maps and reports for the public, federal, state, and local governments.
  • Travel extensively for fieldwork activities, including contacting property landowners for permission to access private lands.
  • Respond to technical and consumer-related inquiries from government agencies, private industry, and the general public regarding geologic expertise.
• Other Duties as Assigned (5%)

  Perform additional duties consistent with Colorado Geological Survey statutes and programs, under the supervision of a senior geologist.

Physical Requirements

• Drive several miles to field sites.
• Hike several miles in mountainous terrain in a variety of weather conditions.
• Use rock hammers, shovels, and other hand-operated field equipment.
• Carry heavy backpacks, samples, equipment, and other items.

Requirements

• A master’s degree in Geology or Earth Science.
• At least 5 years of experience performing geologic field mapping.

Skills

• Prior experience performing geological mapping in Colorado at 1:24,000-scale.
• Prior experience integrating lidar datasets with geological mapping.
• Advanced working knowledge of ArcGIS software for mapping, database management/compilation, Microsoft Office, field tablets, and field data collection software (e.g., Avenza).
• Ability to perform field work and travel overnight, if needed.
• Prior experience mapping bedrock and surficial geologic units, identifying geologic hazards, and/or mineral deposits.
• Prior experience writing geologic reports.

Preferred Qualifications

• At least 10 years of experience performing geologic field mapping and geologic mineral/hazard evaluation.
• Prior experience compiling geologic maps at scales smaller than 1:24,000 in Colorado or the Rocky Mountains.
• Prior experience evaluating mineral resources and geologic hazards in the Rocky Mountains.
• Prior experience working with geophysical data to make geological interpretations.
• Prior experience mentoring and collaborating with academia and government agencies.
• Prior experience evaluating and synthesizing geological data.
• Prior experience with USGS metadata standards.

Pay

Hourly rate: $35.00 per hour. Salary is determined based on a combination of the candidate’s education, training, experience, the position’s scope and complexity, discretion and latitude required, work location, and external market and internal value.