Job Description

Description

Economic Geoscientist, NRSci 3
Recruitment #2023-8-P426
Full-time, Project, Represented position
Anticipated Project is November 2023-November 2025
Location: Natural Resources Building- Olympia, WA
Possible other locations: Seattle, Ellensburg, Spokane, Bellingham
Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
Salary: $5,479.00 - $7,368.00 Monthly

Review of applications is ongoing. The hiring authority reserves the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 9/6/23. It is in the applicant\'s best interest to submit material as soon as possible.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
Are you passionate about economic geology and interested in a career that allows you to use your geology skills to support the nation\'s transition to green energy? The Washington Geological Survey (part of the Washington Department of Natural Resources) is looking for an Economic Geoscientist to lead a 2-year effort to inventory and characterize mine waste for critical minerals throughout the state. Critical minerals are those which are necessary for the production of batteries, electronics, and other staples of the modern world but which are typically rare and were not often the primary commodity in past mining. The mine-waste inventory and characterization effort will help determine if recoverable amounts of these important minerals are present and could help offset the cost of already needed environmental remediation at old mine sites.

You will also be responsible for creating a framework geologic map of the Orient 15-minute quadrangle in northeastern Washington. The framework geology study targets an area of complex geology that hosts many previously economic mines and has abundant known occurrences of critical minerals. The framework study will combine existing unpublished maps with new geology, dating, and geochemistry to document the geologic history of the area and help determine when and how mineral systems developed.

To be successful in this position you not only need an understanding of geology and (or) mineral systems, but you also need to have outstanding organizational and communication skills. You will be involved in two main projects with similar but different deliverables, requiring good time and project management. This position will conduct field work across the state, and will consistently represent the Survey when speaking to landowners and the general public, so being able to communicate science to non-specialists is critical. Also of great importance is an advanced working understanding of GIS. Using GIS is a fundamental and daily process for developing the maps and databases needed for this project.

You will be joining the Survey\'s Geologic Mapping program, a dedicated and energetic team of mapping geologists working together to complete surficial geologic mapping and identification of aggregate resources across the state. The program is known nationally for producing high-quality geologic maps and products and your work will be an important part of the mission of both the program and the Survey.

If you enjoy teamwork, love geology, and want to make a difference and have an impact on how our state and nation are able to provide the mineral resources necessary for the green-energy transition, this is the job for you.

Duties

Responsibilities:

• Develop a comprehensive statewide GIS inventory of mine waste and the geology and mineral systems at each site
• Conduct geochemical sampling of publicly accessible mine sites
• Perform independent and original research by developing a 1:48,000-scale GeMS-compliant geologic map of the Orient 15-minute quadrangle. This includes the compilation and digitization of existing mapping and targeted new geologic mapping, geochemistry, and geochronology that fill in gaps and address inconsistencies in the existing mapping. This also includes collecting, processing, and interpreting potential fields (gravity and magnetics) to help constrain subsurface geologic conditions.
• Review, analyze, integrate, and interpret geological, mineralogical, and geophysical datasets to discover new findings that address the tectonic and mineral-systems history of the map area.
• Chronicle the relevant observations, consequent interpretations, and conclusive project findings using clear communication skills.
• Collaborate with U.S. Geological Survey scientists to ensure our databases, protocols, and mapping align with national efforts.
• Collaborate with external project partners such as academia and other state agencies.
• Execute a safe and effective field campaign while managing known logistical constraints such as budget, time, scope, land access, and more.
• Contribute to a great team environment by maintaining a positive, diligent work ethic and working closely with others to achieve both personal and group goals.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor\'s degree in geology, geophysics, or closely related field AND 2 years of professional experience that require implementation of an independent research project. A Master\'s degree in geology or closely related field will substitute for the two years of experience.
• Experience mapping bedrock geology.
• Advanced understanding and proficiency with Esri ArcPro or similar GIS software.
• Clear and effective communication, both in writing and in person.
• Advanced knowledge in at least one of the following areas: geologic knowledge of Washington State; economic geology or mineral deposit systems; volcanic rocks and processes; metamorphic rocks and processes; structural geology or tectonics; geochemistry.
• Experience managing time effectively; experience developing and meeting project milestones with little oversight.
• DNR Core Competencies:

• Personal Accountability
• Value Others
• Compassionate Communication
• Inspire Others
• Commitment to Excellence

Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:

• Field (outdoor) and office (indoor). Field work occurs spring through fall and often requires work in adverse weather (heat, rain, smoke) while hiking up to 10 miles on uneven and steep terrain. Office work occurs over the winter.
• 50+ miles daily driving during data collection/mapping efforts and week-long overnight stays during summer field work.
• A valid unrestricted driver\'s license and have two years of driving experience. This position requires driving as an essential function. Finalists and/or interview candidates will be asked to provide a driving record from all states in which they have held a license during the past three years.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience measuring large volumes of earth materials (for example, mine waste or tailings).
• Experience collecting, processing, and/or interpreting geochemical data.
• Experience working in remote locations.
• Experience driving on gravel forest roads with varying conditions, including the use of 4-wheel drive.
• Experience compiling or creating geologic maps from multiple sources.

Supplemental Information

Application Requirements:

• To be considered you must apply online at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above).
• Attach a letter of interest describing how your experience and qualifications relate to the position profile and the position required, desired and special requirements.
• Attach a resume describing your experience and qualifications.
• Provide three to five professional references - you may attach a document, use the References text field in the online application, or include with resume.
• Attach a copy of your college degree certificate or an unofficial copy of your transcripts.
• Attach a representative sample of your technical geologic writing. We are looking for candidates who are succinct and clear. The sample should be wholly or mostly of your own effort; if it is a collaborative effort, please identify which sections are yours.
• Attach a representative sample of your geologic mapping.
• Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (social security number, year of birth, etc.).
• Complete all supplemental questions.
• Candidates that move forward in the recruitment process will be contacted via email from

with interview information/scheduling instructions. Please monitor the email listed in your application materials and check your junk email folder to ensure you receive those communications. * Interview candidates will be asked to provide a 15-minute presentation on a geologic topic of their choosing and will complete a 1-2 hour take-home test.
(DNR).
At DNR we approach our work through the lens of making Washington a better place environmentally and are dedicated to serving Washington\'s lands and communities through diversity, equity and inclusion.
Our Vision - Our actions ensure a future where Washington\'s lands, waters, and communities thrive.
Our Mission - Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington\'s lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.
Our Core Values:

• Safety and Well-Being -Our top priority is the safety of the public and our employees.
• Public Service -We value and respect the public we serve, and we value and respect the people of the Department of Natural Resources who step up to serve.
• Innovation and Creative Problem-Solving - We solve our state\'s most pressing challenges through innovative thinking, dedication, and bold and creative vision.
• Leadership and Teamwork -We are committed to building leaders at all levels and building teams for success.

DNR provides excellent benefits, a few of those include:

• Commitment to organizational health and wellness
• Work/life balance
• DNR Employee Resource Groups (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, Women\'s Employee Resource Group, Veterans Employee Resource Group, etc.)
• Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups,
• Leadership that empowers and supports employees
• Professional development opportunities
• Educational and career development aid
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility
• Opportunities to participate in wildland fire suppression assignments
• A comprehensive benefit package that includes employer contributions toward health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, sick leave and vacation days. Visit

for more information. Additional Information:
This recruitment may be extended and may also be used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.

Veterans wishing to claim Veteran\'s preference please attach a copy of your DD-214, NGB-22 or other verification of military service. Please black out your social security number prior to attaching. We thank you and are grateful for your service!

The Department of Natural Resources is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.

Persons needing accommodation during the screening process or this announcement in an alternative format may contact DNR Recruiting staff at (360) 522-2500 or (360) 522-0143 or by email at . Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington State Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) at 1-800-833-6388 or .

Check us out on:

Questions? Please contact Alex Steely at /360-999-0115 or e-mail us at

Once you submit your online application, you can check your status by logging into your account. If you experience technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application call NEOGOV toll-free at (855)524-5627 or email .

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