Research Geologist.

About the role

This position conducts interdisciplinary geological research to support Alaska geologic framework and mineral resource studies.

Responsibilities

• Map, analyze, and interpret the structural and tectonic evolution of bedrock terrains in Alaska as they relate to mineral resources and tectonics.
• Compile geologic map data and contribute to the production of geologic maps, geologic map databases, and other derivative products.
• Participate in fieldwork to map the bedrock geology and interpret the geologic structure and tectonic setting of large regions to assess the relationship to metallogeny.
• Participate in the development of deliverables for presentation in scientific journals, geologic maps, internal reports, and at conferences.
• Operate a government-owned or leased vehicle as an incidental driver.

Requirements

• Must provide proof of U.S. citizenship.
• Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication.
• Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
• Direct Deposit participation required.
• Must successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license throughout employment.
• Required to complete training, obtain, and maintain a government credit card with travel and purchase authority.
• A physical and medical examination will be required, or a statement regarding physical ability will need to be completed. Must maintain physical fitness standards throughout employment.
• Must serve a 1-year probationary period during which continued employment will be evaluated based on performance, conduct, and alignment with agency goals.

Qualifications

All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement (08/17/2026).

Basic Education Requirement

• Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor’s or higher degree in geology. The degree must include or be supplemented by 20 additional semester hours in any combination of mathematics, physics, chemistry, biological science, structural, chemical, civil, mining or petroleum engineering, computer science, planetary geology, comparative planetology, geophysics, meteorology, hydrology, oceanography, physical geography, marine geology, and cartography.
• Alternatively, a combination of education and experience: course work as described above (24 semester hours or equivalent in geology plus 20 additional semester hours in the specified fields), plus appropriate experience and/or additional education totaling 4 years, comparable in type, scope, and thoroughness to a 4-year degree.

Specialized Experience Requirement (GS-12 level)

Applicants must meet one of the following:

• Specialized Experience: At least one full year of professional experience equivalent to the GS-11 level in the Federal service (public or private sectors). Examples include planning and executing geologic studies involving intensive investigations, adapting methods to specific problems, and interpreting findings in terms of scientific significance. Must demonstrate a strong knowledge of geologic principles and the ability to independently perform scientific work of considerable difficulty.
• Education: Successful completion of a PhD or equivalent in Geology. Transcripts must be provided.
• Combination of Education and Experience: Graduate education in excess of 36 semester hours or 54 credit hours, plus specialized experience as described above. The total must equal at least 100% to qualify. Transcripts and hours worked per week must be provided.

Volunteer experience, including work through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) or other organizations, may be credited if it builds relevant competencies.

Education

This position has a mandatory education requirement. If substituting education for experience, you must submit a copy of your transcript(s) including your name, school name, grades, credit hours earned, major(s), GPA or class ranking, and date of degree conferral. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for application, but official transcripts are required if selected. Foreign education must be evaluated by a private organization specializing in interpretation of foreign credentials to ensure equivalency to U.S. education programs.

Physical Demands / Work Environment

• Work is performed in both indoor (office) and outdoor (field) environments.
• Fieldwork can be physically demanding, including walking, bending, climbing, and lifting equipment up to 50 pounds in rugged, remote terrains with adverse weather conditions (e.g., severe wind, rain, cold, snow).
• Transportation to field sites may include helicopter, fixed-wing aircraft, or watercraft.
• Fieldwork may involve encounters with wild animals (e.g., bears), and firearms are typically carried for self-defense.
• Office work requires prolonged periods of sitting or standing.

Benefits

As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a comprehensive benefits package, including health, retirement, and other rewards. Eligibility depends on the type of position (full-time, part-time, or intermittent).