Senior Scientific Specialist, Geology - Illinois State Geological Survey

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign•Urbana, IL

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Prairie Research Institute (PRI) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign houses five State Scientific Surveys. The Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS), a part of PRI, is seeking a Senior Scientific Specialist, Geology to join their technical team. This role will focus on developing written earth science educational materials for various audiences, researching topics related to subsurface energy storage and extraction, and supervising students and staff. The position involves creating engaging content, managing production schedules, and responding to information requests from diverse stakeholders. The ISGS aims to provide valuable earth science information and research to the public, government, and industry, contributing to natural resources, environmental quality, economic vitality, and public safety.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in geology, geography, anthropology, environmental science/policy, or other research-based social sciences. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position.
At minimum of 2 years’ related industry or research experience with a bachelor’s degree, with demonstrated experience producing reports of compiled data and research.
Valid driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in geology, geography, anthropology, environmental science/policy, or other research-based social sciences.
A minimum of 2 years’ related industry or research experience in the petroleum or reservoir geology field with a master’s degree, with demonstrated experience producing reports of compiled data and research.
Knowledge or familiarity with geographic information systems (e.g., ArcGIS Pro, and/or ArcGIS Online), modern scripting/programming languages commonly used in analytical research (e.g., Python, R), geology, engineering, natural resources, statistical methods.
Familiarity with innovative methods of information synthesis (e.g., AI / LLMs, etc.) and their applications in developing written communications.
Creativity.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, and Adobe Illustrator (or similar).
Ability to communicate information clearly and effectively using appropriate methods.
Geology or environmental science knowledge.
Ability to develop and follow written workflows.
Ability to assist in providing detailed written documentation including program reports, standards-compliant metadata, software instructions, standards, and specifications in a clear, concise, and well-structured manner.
Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills.
Aptitude to perform effectively in a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision.
Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills.
Affinity for cooperative and interdisciplinary research with scientists at the Survey, professionals at other Surveys or other academic units, as well as governmental and other academic institutions.

Responsibilities

Perform research to assist with the development of earth science educational materials related to subsurface energy storage and extraction projects, including subsurface geology, reservoir geology, environmental and energy policy, and public acceptance.
Acquire technical information through independent reading, collaboration with subject-matter experts, observation of tests and experiments, and interpretation of diagrams, and present this information in a manner easily understood by the intended audience.
Develop earth science educational materials for a variety of audiences (e.g., K-12 learners, educators, and the public) based on material and technical publications prepared by subject matter experts; review the material for clarity and consistency following policy and style requirements.
Develop or edit materials tailored to specific media and audiences, using knowledge of materials previously released or in process to avoid repetition or contradictions.
Supervise, mentor, and lead undergraduate students, graduate students, and hourly workers, including task assignment, scheduling, ongoing performance management with coaching and feedback, and travel approval.
Research methods for leveraging past and current reports using AI (e.g., LLMs) to enhance discoverability of technical information.
Create and maintain production schedules for presentations, reports, and maps.
Edit articles for publication, often doing substantial rewriting.
Scan and digitize technical diagrams.
Research and develop technical diagrams related to project needs.
Translate datasets into presentation-quality formats.
Respond to requests for information and provide technical expertise to PRI staff, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, academia, industry, and the public.
Attend, participate in, and contribute to meetings, conferences, and workshops.
Contribute to the areas of education, outreach, and/or other service to the Survey, PRI, the University of Illinois, and the state of Illinois.
Enhance the reputation of the Survey and PRI at the state, national, and international level.
Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois.
Complete required administrative documentation, compliance-related forms, certifications, and mandatory training programs accurately and within established deadlines.
Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.