Job Description

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 will independently perform 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:

• Under the direction of senior investigators, independently creates, acquires, and manages geologic and geophysical data related to the geology and hydrology of Delaware and adjacent areas from records of DGS, other State and Federal agencies, and private entities.
• Collects and compiles data including, but not limited to, geophysical logs, lithologic log, well records, aerial photographs, archival maps, and geologic samples from onshore and offshore locations.
• Analyzes data quality and interrelationships and assists with the development of internet-based resources for public dissemination of the data.
• Conducts inventory and organization of legacy datasets.
• Populates databases and assists with metadata creation and management for DGS spatial data and publications.
• Analyzes and interprets geologic, hydrologic and geospatial data using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and other accepted methodologies.
• Applies appropriate tools and methods for analysis and presentation of data including configurating files for online web applications.
• Anticipates and/or identifies issues related to complex problems and situations and works with staff to solve problems. Seeks and builds upon ideas of colleagues to improve geologic data management and dissemination capabilities and efficiency.
• 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.
• 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.
• Makes public presentations on project progress and findings and prepares contract reports as required. Publishes reports and findings of research in referenced publications such as journal or DGS publications.
• Supports other DGS field- and office-based projects as necessary.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in geology, earth science, environmental science, or other related field.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of geologic sample description, borehole and well-logs, and geologic maps. Knowledge of geologic, hydrogeologic, and coastal issues of the Middle Atlantic region is desirable.
• Basic working knowledge of geographical information software, tools for managing and sharing data on the web, and PC-based (Windows) relational database functionality (Access or Oracle).
• 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 in the preparation of technical reports.
• Effective written and oral communication skills along with strong organizational skills.
• Ability to interact and work collaboratively with a diverse 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.

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