Earthquake Science Specialist – ShakeAlert On-Call

US Geological Survey; California; On-site; USD 112,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

US Geological Survey in the Earthquake Science Center leads the ShakeAlert Earthquake Early Warning system. The position requires 24/7 on-call duty rotations, including nights and weekends, with location options in CA and WA. First-time federal hires start at Step 1.

Qualifications include a 4-year degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics and relevant professional experience to qualify for GS-12 level. Applicants must meet all requirements by 11/02/2026.

Qualifications

• Degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics with transcripts.
• One year of professional experience equivalent to GS-11 level.
• Experience communicating about natural hazards and emergency management protocols.

Responsibilities

• Serve as Physical Scientist for ShakeAlert EEW program.
• Participate in 24/7 on-call duty rotations (7 days at a time, nights and weekends).

Skills

Earth science research

Emergency response

Stakeholder engagement

Scientific communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in physical science, engineering or mathematics

Job description

US Geological Survey in the Earthquake Science Center leads the ShakeAlert Earthquake Early Warning system. The position requires 24/7 on-call duty rotations, including nights and weekends, with location options in CA and WA. First-time federal hires start at Step 1.

Qualifications include a 4-year degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics and relevant professional experience to qualify for GS-12 level. Applicants must meet all requirements by 11/02/2026.