Research Associate I / Ii, Delaware Geological Survey

PAY GRADE: 28N / 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 I /II will independently perform basic data collection and applied research related to the collection, organization, and dissemination of data resources related to the geology and hydrogeology of Delaware. This position is supported partially or entirely by external grant funds with an annual funding cycle.

Major Responsibilities

• Interacts with Federal, State, and private partners and with faculty and researchers at the University of Delaware and other academic institutions as project work demands.
• Supports other DGS field- and office-based projects as necessary.
• Along with the senior investigators, supervises and directs students, hourly-paid employees, and interns.
• Populates databases and assists with metadata creation and management for DGS spatial data and publications.
• Assists the senior investigators with preparation of proposals for external funding and preparation of contact reports and project deliverables.
• Assists the senior investigators with data management projects related to the Geology of Delaware from records of DGS, other State and Federal agencies, and private entities.
• Conducts inventory and organization of legacy datasets.
• Collects and compiles data including, but not limited to, geophysical logs, lithologic logs, well records, aerial photographs, archival maps, and geologic samples, and assists with the development of internet-based resources for their public dissemination.

Qualifications

28N (Research Associate I)

• Basic working knowledge of geographical information software and PC-based (Windows) relational database functionality (Access or Oracle). Course work in geographic information systems and familiarity with methods of data delivery on the web are desirable.
• Ability to interact and work collaboratively with a diverse group of individuals, including personnel at the University and the general public.
• Basic knowledge of geologic sample description, geophysical well-logs, and interpretation of geologic cross-sections and geologic maps. Knowledge of geologic and hydrogeologic units of the Atlantic Coastal Plain preferred.
• Interest in and aptitude for learning new technologies, software, and equipment.
• Effective written and oral communication skills along with strong organizational skills.
• Ability to work with IT and data specialists to assist in the development of internet-based resources for public access to data and preparation of technical reports.
• Committed to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated, and equity is a core value.
• Demonstrates an understanding and consideration of the differing needs and concerns of individuals with varying identities, cultures and backgrounds.
• Bachelor's degree in geology, earth science, environmental science, or other related field and one year of related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

29E (Reserach Associate II)

• Demonstrated work experience in geologic sample description, geophysical well-logs, and interpretation of geologic cross-sections and geologic maps. Knowledge of geologic and hydrogeologic units of the Atlantic Coastal Plain preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in geology, earth science, environmental science, or other related field and three years of related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience; master's degree desirable.
• Ability to work with IT and data specialists to assist in the development of internet-based resources for public access to data and preparation of technical reports.
• Committed to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated, and equity is a core value
• Demonstrates an understanding and consideration of the differing needs and concerns of individuals with varying identities, cultures and backgrounds.
• Demonstrated work experience in geographical information software and PC-based (Windows) relational database functionality (Access or Oracle). Course work in geographic information systems and familiarity with methods of data delivery on the web are desirable.
• Ability to interact and work collaboratively with a diverse group of individuals, including personnel at the University and the general public.
• Interest in and aptitude for learning new technologies, software, and equipment.
• Effective written and oral communication skills along with strong organizational skills.

Special Requirements

• Possession of a driver's license with the ability to operate vehicles legally in Delaware.
• Position requires work inside at a computer workstation and occasionally physically demanding work, including lifting equipment of up to 50 pounds.