Environmental Scientist IV - Vermont Geological Survey - Limited Service

at State of Vermont in Montpelier, Vermont, United States

Job Description

The Vermont Geological Survey seeks an experienced geologist to join our small team in Montpelier, VT, doing applied geoscience work. This position will involve both field- and office-related scientific, technical, and administrative tasks in support of the State Geologist, other programs in the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), and sister agencies. We use innovative approaches to data collection including Unoccupied Aerial Vehicles (UAV), geophysical equipment, and groundwater geochemical surveys in addition to traditional field methods to collect robust, objective data; modern software is used to process and analyze the UAV (photogrammetry) and geophysical (surface and borehole geophysics) data. The ideal candidate will have experience independently generating map products and performing spatial analyses using ArcGIS Pro, and managing databases used to release data to clients.

The Vermont Geological Survey is a non-regulatory research arm of the DEC involved with acquiring and analyzing physical and chemical geologic datasets to solve complex environmental problems on behalf of Vermonters. Specific tasks that this position may support include evaluating and monitoring geologic hazards such as landslides, rockfalls, and erosion; mapping unconsolidated surficial deposits and bedrock formations and structures; producing groundwater resource maps in ArcGIS for source evaluation and protection; and defining the distribution of naturally-occurring geogenic contaminants such as uranium, radium, arsenic, and fluoride, and anthropogenic contaminants such as PFAS and nitrates in geologic media. 

The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation supports a hybrid work schedule that allows for two telework days per week when no field work or in-person meetings are planned. This is a limited-service position with the same benefits package as a permanent SOV position; it is not a temporary position, but rather a full-time position in the classified service that is funded through August 2026 and is anticipated to be extended annually each year based on projected federal funding. We love what we do and can't wait to have you as part of our team!

Duties are largely performed in an office setting; however, some field travel may be necessary for which private means of transportation must be available. Field work may involve exposure to chemicals, gases, hazardous liquid and solid waste, and construction sites during all weather conditions; and may involve traversing rough terrain and bodies of water. Some work outside of regular working hours, including attendance at public meetings, may be required. Strong differences of opinion may be encountered on a regular basis.