Initial Posting Date:

07/21/2025

Application Deadline:

08/04/2025

Agency:

Department of Geology and Mineral Industries

Salary Range:

$5,325 - $8,148

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Lead Field Geologist (Natural Resource Specialist 3)

Job Description:

Opportunity Awaits, Apply Today! – Lead Field Geologist (Natural Resource Specialist 3)

This position exists in the Geological Survey & Services (GS&S) program. The GS&S program conducts geoscience surveys of the state, serves as the cost-effective centralized source of geoscientific information in Oregon for the public and for government, and forms partnerships for the effective use of that information to reduce risk.

As a Lead Field Geologist you will serve as a lead member of the geologic mapping team, building detailed geologic maps. These maps are needed to decipher Earth history, evaluate mineral and energy resource potential, model the conservation and sustainability of water resources, and prepare for natural hazards at local, regional, and state-wide levels. Through combined field work and office work, the position gathers, evaluates, analyzes, maps, and interprets earth science information, topographic data, and remote sensing data. This position may initiate and lead projects, coordinate and collaborate with other project managers in the development of project scope, and lead research and the writing of technical reports, in support of short and long-term geological fundamental and applied research investigations. As part of the Oregon Resilience Plan, this position advances resiliency through innovative communication techniques and technologies to inform the public and groups of Oregon’s unique and complex geology and geologic hazards.

For a full review of the position description, please click here.

What We Are Looking For

Minimum Qualifications:

• Three years of professional experience in geography, geology, geomorphology or closely related physical science (At least one year of the experience must be at a technical or professional level performing activities in a natural resource program such as researching and analyzing data, conducting investigations, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities) AND A Bachelor's degree in geology, geomorphology, geography, or closely related physical science or three additional years of related (pertinent) experience;

OR

• A Master's degree in geology, geomorphology, geography, or closely related physical science AND two years professional experience in geology, geomorphology, geography, or closely related physical science;

OR

• A Doctorate degree in geology, geomorphology, geography, or closely related physical science AND one-year professional experience in geology, geomorphology, geography, or closely related physical science.

Desired Attributes:

• Advanced to expert knowledge of geology, geomorphology, geography, or closely related physical science.

• Advanced to expert knowledge of geochemistry, mineral resource evaluation, inventory, and development.

• Demonstrated success and advanced knowledge of project management and project management principles.

• Advanced knowledge of geographic information systems, experience using GIS applications, such as ESRI ArcGIS Pro.

• Experience participating in decision making and cooperative interactions among staff and management.

• Knowledge of vertical and horizontal datum, mapping projections and geographic coordinate systems.

• Ability to present to material to technical, interested parties and public audiences by clearly communicating controversial and complex scientific information in a constructive and helpful manner.

Application Details and Instructions

• Visit the State of Oregon job opportunities webpage to submit your application. Please ensure the work history in your applicant profile is up to date and attach a current copy of your resume and cover letter. If you are a current State of Oregon employee, you must apply through your employee Workday account.

• This announcement is for one, full-time, SEIU represented, Lead Field Geologist (Classification: Natural Resource Specialist 3) position and may be used to fill future vacancies.

• Please review the Classification and Compensation page for more details on the classification, or you may visit our website for information on the job offer process following pay equity.

• Please save a copy of this job announcement for your reference, as it is not available for you to view after the job closes. If you have questions about the job announcement, or need an alternate format to apply, please contact the Recruiter, Nancy Karnas at: nancy.karnas@das.oregon.gov | 971-719-3083.

The Benefits of Joining Our Team

This team focuses closely on collaboration to support fellow teammates, while ensuring safety and looking for ways to innovate. Visit the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries website to learn more about us!

Additional benefits include:

• Work/life balance, 11 paid holidays a year, and a competitive benefits package.

• Advancement and learning opportunities that will help grow your career with the State of Oregon.

• Get There - Oregon’s easy-to-use carpool matching tool and trip planner.

• Live, work, and play in Portland, Oregon.

• Offering hybrid work schedule! Some in-office work will be required, approximately 1 day per week. The successful candidate will work a combination of in-office, in-field and remote work.

Additional Details

• Employee is required to possess and maintain a valid driver’s license issued by the state where the employee resides.

• Finalists will be subject to a computerized criminal history check. Adverse background data may be grounds for immediate disqualification.

• Agency does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, applicants will be required to complete I-9 documentation and confirm authorization to work in the United States. If your employment authorization and documentation is contingent on sponsorship now or in the future, you will not meet Agency employment eligibility standards.

• Eligible veterans who meet the qualifications will be given veterans' preference. For more information, visit Veterans Resources.

• The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying salary range. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95%. Please review the Classification and Compensation page for more details.

Helpful Links & Resources

Oregon Job Opportunities Webpage | How to Set Job Alerts

Workday Applicant FAQ | What You Need to Know to Get the Job