The Geologist (Researcher I) will provide field and lab support to bedrock and hydrogeology research and mapping teams at the Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey (WGNHS). Work will involve collection of geological and hydrological data; description of outcrops rock core and cuttings; geochemical sampling and analysis of rock core; measurements of stream flow; water quality sampling of surface water and groundwater; GIS analysis; and management and reporting of associated data.
The position description represents a general outline of job duties expectations responsibilities and is not intended to be comprehensive in nature. The position is accountable to the State Geologist. Day-to-day activities will be supervised by project Principal Investigators. The position will require travel and overnight stays to perform fieldwork across the state.
The Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey is located within Madison WI.
The initial period of employment will be 2 years (through Feb 2028) with the possibility to become renewable or be extended contingent upon available funding.
This position requires some work to be performed in-person onsite at a designated campus work location. Some work may be performed remotely at an offsite non-campus work location. Remote work requires an approved remote work agreement (RWA). A RWA requires successful candidates to possess their own high-speed internet and phone to perform the work on a university provided computer. Per University policy transportation between home and assigned work location is not payable/reimbursable and will be at the expense of the employee.
This position has the possibility of working up to 2 days remote per the WGNHS remote work policy.
It is expected that employees will make individual arrangements for transportation adequate to meet position responsibilities and essential job functions.Read more about UW-Madison Driver Authorization.
Applicants are required to: Have a valid drivers license and a reliable source of independent transportation for periodic in-state work travel and/or comply with requirements for UW-Madison vehicle use authorization.
Ability to lift 50 pounds with assistance
Ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions
Sitting standing and walking over uneven ground will be required
Conducts literature reviews prepares reports and materials and disseminates information to appropriate entities and assists with publications
Assists with the development of research methodologies and procedures
Division of Extension Natural Resources Institute Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey (WGNHS) is hiring for a Geologist.
UW-Madisons Division of Extension serves the people and communities of Wisconsin by addressing local statewide and national issues improving lives through research-based education fostering partnerships and action and facilitating positive impacts.
The Wisconsin Geological and Natural History (WGNHS)establishedin 1853 conducts earth-science surveys field studiesand research. We provide objective scientific information about the geology mineral resources and water resources ofWisconsin. We collect interpretdisseminate and archive natural resource information. We communicate the results ofouractivities through publications technical talks and responses to inquiries from the public. These activities support informeddecision-making by government industry business and individual citizens. The WGNHS is a part of the University ofWisconsin-Madison Division of Extension Natural Resources Institute.
Well-qualified candidates can anticipate earning between $45000 - $55000. Actual pay within this range will depend on experience and qualifications.
This position offers a comprehensive benefits package including generous paid time off competitively priced health/dental/vision/life insurance tax-advantaged savings accounts and participation in the nationally recognized Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund. Please review thesummary of benefitsfor more information.
Ability to gain and maintain UW Driving Authorization
Basic familiarity with Microsoft Office
Ability to independently accomplish detail-oriented work duties
Strong verbal and written communication skills willingness to learn and share knowledge with colleagues and strong organizational skills
Ability to work professionally courteously collaboratively and productively with Survey university and agency colleagues and a wide variety of external partners
Knowledge and skills to effectively work with people from a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives
Experience conducting field work
One or more years of relevant work experience or a Masters degree
Demonstrated understanding of the geology and/or hydrogeology of Wisconsin
Experience describing sediments and rocks
Experience creating geologic maps and cross-sections
Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Experience using a scanning electron microscope and/or electron microprobe
A Bachelors degree in Geology or related field
Coursework in the fundamentals of sedimentology petrology structural geology or hydrogeology
We are eager to learn more about how your experience and passion may align with this position. To begin the application process click the apply now button. You will be prompted to upload the following documents:
Resume
Letter of Qualifications (cover letter)
Please note when applying there will beonlyoneattachment field.You must uploadall your documents in the attachment field.Please submit a cover letter referring to your work experience and a resume detailing your educational and professional background as it relates to this position. Your cover letter should communicate your interest in the position and how your skillset aligns with the role. The application reviewers will be relying on written application materials to determine who may advance to preliminary interviews.
For additional guidance and resources on how to tailor your application materials to the job posting please click note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States a lawful permanent resident a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment.
Application Deadline is February 22 2026 at 11:59pm (CST).
Sue Swanson
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Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
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