Hydrogeologist

Montana Tech•Butte, MT

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology (MBMG), Montana’s state geologic survey, seeks one or more highly motivated hydrogeologists/hydrologists to work in the Ground Water Investigation Program (GWIP). The position is based in Butte, Montana and located on the campus of Montana Technological University. GWIP evaluates local- to regional-scale hydrogeologic systems, with studies that encompass groundwater/surface-water interactions, water availability and storage, and groundwater quantity and quality. Primary duties will be to collect and analyze hydrogeologic, geochemical, and geologic data to develop interpretations of hydrogeologic frameworks, groundwater and surface-water flow systems, and water quality. These interpretations will be compiled into maps, reports, and groundwater flow models. Tasks include planning and assisting with work plan development, and field activities such as developing groundwater and surface-water monitoring networks; measuring groundwater levels and stream flows; collecting water-quality samples; overseeing monitoring well installation; and assisting with aquifer tests. A successful candidate will be expected to work individually and as part of a team to collect hydrogeologic data, write reports, and develop map products; make presentations at public and scientific meetings; and interact with landowners and answer public inquiries. The work may require travel throughout Montana including overnight stays up to a week. The successful candidate will join a vibrant group of geoscientists committed to providing high-quality data and interpretations to support the orderly and responsible development of Montana’s natural resources. The MBMG is a department of the Montana Technological University, but this is a non-tenurable, non-teaching position. Application reviews will begin on April 14, 2026. Priority will be given to applications received by that date, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Requirements

Professional Scientist: Bachelor’s Degree in hydrogeology, geology, hydrology, or related field and 3 years relevant experience or Master’s degree in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology or related field obtained by May 2026.
Assistant Hydrogeologist/Hydrologist: Master’s Degree in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology, or related field and 3 years relevant experience or a Doctorate obtained by May 2026.
College-level course work in fields related to geology, hydrogeology, hydrology, must include a list of relevant courses in your resume.
A valid Montana driver’s license (or ability to acquire one).
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time bases.

Nice To Haves

Experience with GIS hydrologic applications (such as Arc GIS Pro), surface water analysis (such as Aquarius) and other computational methods such as R, Python, MODFLOW or similar applications.
Applicable field experience in groundwater and/or surface water monitoring (i.e. discharge measurements, and rating curve development.
Experience with developing groundwater budgets.
Familiarity with conducting and analyzing aquifer tests.
Water-well drilling experience, including logging and completing wells.
Experience in synthesizing, interpreting, and managing hydrogeologic, geochemical and/or geophysical data.
A record of publication and/or authored reports, presentations, or other formal communication that demonstrates strong technical writing skills.
Experience interacting with landowners.
Demonstrated ability to self-manage time and effectively complete tasks.
Familiarity with the geology and hydrogeology of Montana.

Responsibilities

collect and analyze hydrogeologic, geochemical, and geologic data to develop interpretations of hydrogeologic frameworks, groundwater and surface-water flow systems, and water quality
compile interpretations into maps, reports, and groundwater flow models
plan and assist with work plan development
develop groundwater and surface-water monitoring networks
measure groundwater levels and stream flows
collect water-quality samples
oversee monitoring well installation
assist with aquifer tests
collect hydrogeologic data
write reports
develop map products
make presentations at public and scientific meetings
interact with landowners and answer public inquiries

Benefits

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance with low deductibles and comprehensive coverage.
Generous employer contribution toward monthly health care benefits worth $6.08 per hour.
5.9% retirement employer contribution for eligible employees
11 Holidays per year
3 weeks of Annual Leave to start
Generous sick leave policy that can be used for sick children, doctor and dentist appointments as well as bereavement.
6 credits of coursework free per year (fees not included)
Life and Disability Insurance
Reduced tuition for dependents after 4 months of employment for eligible employees
Employee Assistance and a Wellness Program
Optional Retirement Plan for eligible employees
Possible remote work days with supervisor approval and eligible positions.