Research Associate II, Geological Mapping

PAY GRADE: 29E

CONTEXT OF THE JOB:

The Delaware Geological Survey (DGS) is a unit of the University of Delaware with a mission to conduct research, exploration, and service of benefit to the First State. Statutory charges include the following: systematic investigation of the geology of Delaware; exploration and research pertaining to the water, mineral, and other earth resources; preparation of reports and maps presenting its findings; and provision of factual information and advice to the officials and citizens of Delaware.

Under the general direction of a senior investigator, the Research Associate II conducts geologic investigations related to geologic mapping in Delaware, specifically surficial geologic mapping in support of USGS Statemap-funded and other mapping programs. This position will be at the Delaware Geological Survey at the University of Delaware. This position is supported entirely by external grant funds with an annual funding cycle.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assists the Principal Investigator with geologic mapping projects related to the geology of Delaware.
• Collects and compiles data including, but not limited to, sediment cores, outcrop descriptions and geophysical logs.
• Assists the Principal Investigator with preparation of proposals for external funding and develops and implements a research plan for geologic mapping subject to approval by the Delaware Geologic Mapping Advisory Committee.
• Creates, acquires, analyzes, and manages complex GIS data to produce publication-quality map products, cross sections, illustrations, and data reports.
• Develops methods for analysis and presentation of data including configuring files for online web applications.
• Applies the USGS’s GeMS schema to new and historic geologic maps for submission to the National Geologic Map Database (NGMDB) to ensure compliance with federal guidelines for STATEMAP projects.
• Assists with metadata creation and management for DGS spatial data and publications.
• Assists the Principal Investigator with selecting drill sites and independently coordinates with the DGS driller in carrying out the field coring program.
• Manages work plans and calendars related to the program of research.
• Along with the Principal Investigator, supervises and directs students, hourly employees, and interns in laboratory and field settings.
• Manages and populates Access and Oracle databases and creates metadata.
• Seeks and builds upon ideas of colleagues to improve GIS capabilities and efficiency for the program and the agency.
• Interacts with University of Delaware faculty and researchers as well as academics at other institutions, along with Federal, State, and private partners in geologic interpretations, training, data sharing, and data transfer.
• Gives public presentations on project progress and findings and prepares contract reports as required. Publishes reports and findings of research in referenced publications such as DGS publications.
• Performs other job related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in geology or Earth science and two years of experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience with stratigraphic analysis and correlation, geologic sample description, construction of geologic maps, and in use of GIS and database management.
• Experience in Atlantic or Gulf Coastal Plain geology preferred.
• Field experience in collection of split-spoon samples and assisting in drill rig operations preferred.
• Familiarity with metadata standards, and experience with spatial and relational databases. Familiarity with GeMS metadata a plus.
• Ability to write, compile, and display data for technical reports and communicate effectively with DGS staff, research collaborators, and the public.
• Ability to interact and work collaboratively with a diverse group of individuals, including personnel at the University and the public.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• The position requires fieldwork in an outdoor setting collecting core with the DGS drill rig and with hand-auguring, work at a computer workstation in an office setting and in a sample processing and examination laboratory.
• Job requires physically demanding work outside in hot/cold/wet conditions, including lifting samples and equipment up to 50 pounds.
• Travel to attend meetings with collaborators, perform field work, and present research in professional forums is required.