RESA III - Geoscience Data and Collections Engineer/Geoscientist

The University of Texas at Austin•Austin, TX

12d•$60,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Resource Center at the Bureau of Economic Geology (Bureau) houses an extensive archive of geologic information dating back to the 1870s. This collection includes print and digital records of geological and geophysical data such as maps, well logs, engineering and geologic reports, photographs, field notes, and samples. Many of these materials are original works by Bureau researchers and other geoscientists who have contributed their collections over the years. In addition, the Bureau houses an extensive core collection comprising more than 2 million boxes of core and other sample materials from various geographic locations across the United States, as well as a few international locations. The collection is maintained at two core facilities located in Austin and Houston. This position is in-person at the J.J. Pickle Research Campus in North Austin. The Bureau of Economic Geology is seeking a highly motivated and technically skilled Geoscience Data and Collections Engineer/Geoscientist to lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of systems for cataloging and managing the Bureau’s archive collections and physical rock materials (core, cuttings, thin sections and rock samples) and associated well and subsurface data, including paper logs, reports, etc. This role requires a unique combination of geoscience knowledge and data science expertise to support the long-term preservation, accessibility, and usability of one of the largest geologic collections in the world.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Geoscience, Earth Sciences or equivalent with four years of experience and a Master’s degree in Geosciences, Geoinformatics, or Data Science with two years of experience
Strong understanding of geological sample types and well data (e.g., cores, cuttings, thin sections, and well-logs).
Experience with database design, data modeling, and data management systems.
Proficiency in programming or scripting languages (e.g., Python, SQL) for data handling and automation.
Familiarity with GIS, metadata standards, and digital archiving best practices.
Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Ability to interact with others in a respectful, patient, and friendly manner when working with staff and visitors.
Occasional travel for work
The applicant for the job should have a valid Texas driver’s license and a good driving record and should take the UT-mandated online driver training modules to remain authorized to drive Bureau vehicles.

Nice To Haves

Library science training and/or archive experience
Experience working with geological collections or in a research repository environment.
Knowledge of cloud-based data storage and management solutions.
Experience with data visualization tools and dashboards.
Familiarity with academic or government research environments

Responsibilities

Process, organize, and describe physical and digital archival collections, including maps, field notes, photographs, unpublished reports, and a wide range of geological and geophysical data types.
Design and maintain robust digital systems for cataloging and managing geological archive records, samples and associated metadata.
Collaborate with geoscientists, IT staff, and collection managers to ensure data integrity, accessibility, and scalability.
Develop and implement workflows for digitizing, tagging, and integrating archive records, paper logs and other analog records.
Lead efforts to modernize legacy data systems and migrate data to new platforms as needed.
Ensure compliance with data standards and best practices in geoscience informatics.
Provide technical support and training to staff and researchers using the collections database.
Contribute to strategic planning for long-term data stewardship and digital infrastructure.
Provides research support by facilitating access to archival records for scholars, scientists, and the public , supporting research initiatives, and public engagement with institutional resources.
Supports Bureau researchers and donors in the submission and integration of new archival records, ensuring accurate documentation and incorporation into the existing archive.
Collaborates with the Resource Center Manager, Resource Center System Specialist, and researchers to enhance the Bureau’s archival database.