Research Scientist

Research Scientist Posting Number req19925 Department Arizona Geological Survey Department Website Link Location Main Campus Address Tucson, AZ USA Position Highlights

The Arizona Geological Survey is a nonacademic research department in the University of Arizona tasked with furthering our understanding of the geology, mineral resources, and natural hazards of Arizona.

We invite applications for a new Research Scientist to join our surficial geology and geologic hazards team. This is an exciting opportunity for a field-oriented geomorphologist / Quaternary geologist interested in conducting geologic mapping and research in geologic hazards.

The successful candidate will have a strong background in surficial geologic mapping, with supporting interests in geologic hazards, soils, or sedimentology.

The new Research Scientist will primarily conduct surficial geologic mapping as a member of the AZGS geologic mapping team, jointly funded by the AZGS and the USGS through the STATEMAP program.

The AZGS geologic mapping program takes advantage of Arizona’s long field season (October to May) with the summer months focused on map compilation, report writing, and sample analysis.

The new Research Scientist will assist with annual proposal development for the STATEMAP program, and will also have opportunities to help develop, lead, and manage geologic hazards projects, such as landslide mapping, earth-fissure mapping and monitoring, post-wildfire debris-flow research, and / or seismic hazard studies.

Key technical skills for a successful candidate include the ability to conduct surficial geologic mapping (including stratigraphic and geomorphic analysis), interpret diverse datasets (, LiDAR data, borehole or well data, soil development, deposit dating, geochemistry, etc.

analyze landscapes using LiDAR data and GIS modeling, and synthesize mapping information in a GIS environment. The successful candidate should be comfortable using GIS software (, ArcGIS Pro).

The successful candidate will be able to conduct independent fieldwork, will have strong interpersonal skills, can work collaboratively on a team, has experience conducting complex projects, and can communicate their science effectively with other researchers, public and private stakeholders, and members of the public to further our understanding of Arizona’s geologic resources and natural hazards.

All AZGS staff scientists are expected to participate in field investigations, develop and write proposals, and conduct office-based data compilations that will lead to the production of high-quality maps, datasets, reports, scientific papers, and presentations.

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays;

UA / ASU / NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please visit

Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct solo and team surficial geologic mapping as part of the STATEMAP program, sometimes in remote locations.
• Contribute to all stages of the geologic mapping lifecycle, including planning, fieldwork, analysis, GIS compilation, and publication of maps and their associated reports.
• Collaborate with senior team members to develop yearly proposals for the STATEMAP program
• Collaborate with the geologic hazards team to develop, conduct, lead, and manage geologic hazards investigations, such as earth-fissure or landslide mapping, post-wildfire debris-flow research, and seismic or other hazards, participating in all stages of projects, from planning through publication.
• Communicate with staff of varying technical knowledge and with non-scientific stakeholders.
• Strong written communication and analytical skills.
• Author peer-reviewedscientific papers and publications

Minimum Qualifications

• Master's degree in Geology or related field AND minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience is required.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and ability to drive according to the University .

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience conducting independent surficial geologic mapping
• Experience conducting geologic hazards investigations

FLSA Exempt Full Time / Part Time Full Time Number of Hours Worked per Week 40 Job FTE Work Calendar Fiscal Job Category Research Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits Rate of Pay $59,404-$74,254 Compensation Type salary at full-time equivalency (FTE) Grade 8 Compensation Guidance The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education / training, key skills, and internal equity.

The Grade Range Minimum, Midpoint, and Maximum Fields listed below represent a full range of career compensation growth over time in this position and grade.

Each unit typically sets starting pay between minimum and midpoint upon hire. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture.

To learn more about compensation, please review our and our . Grade Range Minimum $59404 Grade Range Midpoint $74254 Grade Range Maximum $89105 Career Stream and Level PC3 Job Family Researchers & Scientists Job Function Research Type of criminal background check required : Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive) Number of Vacancies 1 Target Hire Date 9 / 16 / 2024 Expected End Date Contact Information for Candidates Open Date 7 / 11 / 2024 Open Until Filled Yes Documents Needed