PAY GRADE: 28N

CONTEXT OF THE JOB:

The mission of the Delaware Geological Survey (DGS) includes research, exploration and service. 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 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 is position is supported by external funds.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• 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.
• Collects and compiles data including, but not limited to, lithology and geophysical logs, well records, aerial photographs, archival maps, and geologic samples, and assists with the development of internet-based resources for their public dissemination.
• Conducts inventory and organization of legacy datasets.
• Populates databases and assists with metadata creation and management for DGS spatial data and publications.
• Provides support to senior investigators for document writing and graphics creation related to the preparation of publications, data products, and web products.
• Provides support to other DGS investigators for geological and hydrological field operations.
• Assists the senior investigators with preparation of proposals for external funding and preparation of contact reports and project deliverables.
• Along with the senior investigators, supervises and directs students, hourly-paid employees, and interns.
• Anticipates and/or identifies issues related to complex problems and situations and works with staff to solve problems.
• 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.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in geology, environmental science, or other related field and one year of related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Basic knowledge of geologic sample description, geophysical well-logs, and interpretation of geologic cross-sections and geologic maps.
• Knowledge of and proficiency with PC-based (Windows) database management (Access or Oracle) and geographical information software. Course work in geographic information systems and familiarity with methods of data delivery on the web are desirable.
• Interest in and aptitude for learning new technologies, software, and equipment.
• 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.
• Effective written and oral communication skills.
• Knowledge of geologic and hydrogeologic units of the Atlantic Coastal Plain preferred.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to interact and work collaboratively with a varied group of individuals, including personnel at the University and the general public.

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.