Project Geologist (Geothermal)

PROJECT GEOLOGIST - GEOTHERMAL

FT / PT Status – Full-Time
Salary – $35.16 - $45.00 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office – Hybrid

Recruiter – Karen Weir | kweir@utah.gov | 8015387425
Application Deadline – 9/13/2026*

*This job posting may close at any time after the minimum advertising period of three (3) business days has passed, should a sufficient applicant pool be received. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Job Description
The Utah Geological Survey’s Energy and Minerals Program seeks a geologist/geophysicist with proficient knowledge and skills to join our team as a Project Geologist. Duties will focus on assisting senior-level geologists with a wide variety of grant-funded geophysical and geothermal projects. Someone proficient in grant proposal writing and project management and execution is preferred. This provisional position is funded for an initial term of 2 years, with the possibility of renewal contingent upon grant funding, budget, and need. It has a fixed working schedule of 40 hours per week. The salary depends on experience and includes full benefits, including medical, dental, life and long-term disability insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave. The position is located at the Utah Department of Natural Resources building in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Key Responsibilities

• assist in planning and conducting geophysical field surveys for research projects;
• process, model, and interpret geophysical data including seismic, magnetics, gravity, electromagnetics, and high-precision GNSS data as necessary;
• assist in calibrating, repairing, and maintaining geophysical equipment in the lab and in the field;
• assist in the compiling, organizing, and archiving of geophysical data;
• assist in the characterization of geothermal resources and their potential in Utah;
• conduct geologic field work, sample collection, and technical report preparation;
• create geospatial digital geological and geophysical map products;
• assist with compiling, cataloguing, and archiving of historical resource data and reports.

Qualifications

Minimum or "day-one" qualifications:

• At minimum, the applicant must hold a Bachelors degree in Geology or Geophysics or a related field.

The ideal candidate will have: 

• a graduate degree in geology, geophysics, or a related field;
• the ability to complete geologic field work in remote areas;
• the ability to work independently while maintaining a commitment to teamwork;
• demonstrable problem-solving skills, innovative thinking, and attention to detail; 
• strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to give professional presentations;
• a working knowledge of the geothermal resources in Utah;
• the computer skills necessary for a geophysics-based research position (MS office, Adobe suite, GIS, Python, Fortran, and Linux language coding, etc.);
• extensive experience in collecting field data in applied geophysical survey methods for subsurface characterization studies including geothermal and hydrological resources;
• experience operating and troubleshooting geophysical equipment;
• experience processing geophysical field data for quality control and assurance including GNSS surveys;
• experience performing inversion modeling of geophysical data; 
• the ability to seek external funding opportunities, lead and manage grant-funded research projects.

About the Role
Location –
1594 West North Temple
Salt Lake City, Utah, 84116
United States
Background Check Required – No
Drug Test Required – No
Schedule Code – TL - Time limited
Supplemental Information -  Candidates must reside within the state of Utah
Work Schedule - 40 hours / week, Mon-Fri
Work environment, working conditions, physical requirements - 

• Ability to perform field work in remote and rugged locations throughout Utah, including use of 4x4 vehicles or ATVs, frequent hiking, and carrying objects over 40 pounds.
• Flexibility to travel in-state and out-of-state as needed for field work, meetings, technical conferences, etc.

Certifications/Licenses - required at the time of hire or must obtain during probationary period or designated time frame:

• Professional geology license in the State of Utah is required (only under limited circumstances is this requirement negotiable), or the ability to acquire this license in the first year of employment
• Valid Utah driver's license
  

Why You Should Join Our Team
In Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah, click here. Other benefits may include:

• Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
• Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization. 
• Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals. 
• Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

The Agency
This is your chance to work professionally in one of the most stunning states in the U.S. Enjoy a flexible schedule (4-10s, 9-9s, etc.), telecommute options, and the freedom to pursue diverse research interests. The Utah Geological Survey provides an unmatched opportunity to practice "real" geology and also enjoy a work-life balance that affords ample time for family and outdoor activities. 
To Learn More About Us

EEO Statement
The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.