Hydrogeologist

University of Wisconsin Madison; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous paid time off

Health insurance

Wisconsin Retirement System participation

Job summary

The University of Wisconsin Madison is seeking two Hydrogeologists for applied and fundamental research to enhance understanding of Wisconsin's hydrogeology.

Candidates for Scientist II or Scientist III will manage fieldwork, collect and analyze data, and communicate findings to diverse audiences. A Master's degree in hydrogeology or related fields is required, with a salary ranging from $75,000 to $100,000 based on experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in hydrogeology or related field.
• Broad training in geological sciences.
• Skills in presenting hydrological data effectively.

Responsibilities

• Manage and conduct groundwater research and fieldwork including project leadership.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret hydrogeologic data.
• Write or assist in developing grant applications to secure funding.

Skills

Hydrogeology

Field-based research

Project management

Data analysis

GIS software

Education

Master’s Degree in hydrogeology or related field

Tools

Hydrogeologic software

GIS software

Job description

Job Summary

The Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey (WGNHS) is seeking up to two self‑motivated, collaborative, engaged, and experienced Hydrogeologists who will conduct applied and fundamental research and mapping to improve our understanding of the hydrogeology of Wisconsin.

Applicants for this position will be considered for Scientist II or Scientist III titles. Pay is commensurate with experience.

Location

Madison, WI

Travel Requirements

Employees will be required to make individual arrangements for transportation and to travel in‑state as needed for fieldwork and outreach. Nighttime stays on site may be required.

Work Arrangements

Some work may be performed remotely; however a portion of the position must be performed on a designated campus location.

Responsibilities

• Manage and conduct applied and fundamental groundwater research, including project leadership, planning, proposal development, budgeting, fieldwork, data management, and report preparation.
• Perform field work such as well installation, water‑level measurement, streamflow measurement, pumping and slug tests, surface and borehole geophysical measurement, and water sample collection.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret hydrogeologic data, develop and update project‑specific databases, and incorporate mapping data into WGNHS databases.
• Communicate results through workshops, training sessions, lectures, and peer‑reviewed publications and maps.
• Serve the geologic and hydrogeologic community through peer review of publications and service on committees.
• Supervise and mentor student employees.
• Collaborate with other WGNHS staff and local, state, Tribal, and federal agencies.
• Respond to the public’s questions and problems concerning Wisconsin’s geology and hydrogeology.
• Reach a wide audience and ensure access to programs, facilities, and educational services in a manner that serves all residents of Wisconsin.
• Be responsive to evolving position, program, and organizational needs; perform additional duties as requested.
• Attend and assist with facilitation of scholarly events and presentations for professional development and dissemination of research information.
• Identify research problems and develop complex research methodologies and procedures.
• Act as a unit subject‑matter expert and liaison to internal and external stakeholders.
• Write or assist in developing grant applications and proposals to secure research funding.
• Collect and analyze complex research data, conduct experiments and interviews, and document results according to policies and procedures.
• Conduct literature reviews and prepare reports and materials for dissemination.
• Monitor program budget and approve unit expenditures.
• May supervise the day‑to‑day activities of a research unit as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years relevant professional experience in hydrogeology, hydrology, or a closely related field by the start date.
• Broad training in the geological sciences and experience working with subsurface datasets.
• Specialized experience or training in at least one field related to hydrogeology such as applied geophysics, karst/fractured rock systems, hydrostratigraphy, geochemistry, groundwater modeling, or contaminant hydrogeology.
• Experience in project management including scoping work, managing budgets, and delivering products on schedule.
• Experience leading and conducting field‑based hydrologic investigations.
• Skills in presenting hydrological data in maps, cross‑sections, and graphs.
• Ability to write, present, educate, and communicate ideas effectively to a broad audience.
• Experience with hydrogeologic and GIS software, spreadsheets, and graphic analysis.
• Professional, courteous, collaborative, and productive team skills.
• Commitment to developing projects that serve societal needs.
• Ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with the geology and hydrogeology of Wisconsin and/or the Upper Midwest or Great Lakes Region.
• Experience designing an applied research program addressing societal issues relevant to Wisconsin.
• Experience developing, securing, and implementing grant‑funded research.
• Experience supervising and mentoring others, including student projects.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining professional relationships and networks, especially with local, Tribal, and county governments.

Education

• Required: Master’s Degree in hydrogeology, hydrology, or a closely related field by the start date.
• Preferred: PhD in hydrogeology, hydrology, or a closely related field.

Compensation

Minimum annual starting salary: $75,000. Expected salary range: $75,000–$100,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience. Pay is commensurate with experience.

Comprehensive benefits package includes generous paid time off, competitively priced health, dental, vision, and life insurance, tax‑advantaged savings accounts, and participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System pension fund.

Employment Details

Full‑time equivalent: 80–100% (32–40 hours per week). FTE may be prorated for part‑time work.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift 50 pounds with assistance.
• Ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions.
• Ability to sit, stand, and walk over uneven ground.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Wisconsin‑Madison is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran, and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies.