Section Head/KGS

University of Kentucky; Lexington, Northern (KY, KY); Hybrid; USD 83,000 - 142,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Kentucky is seeking a Water Resources Team Lead and Facility Manager to join the Kentucky Geological Survey (KGS). The role provides scientific, operational, and strategic leadership for hydrogeology research and water resource initiatives that support the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

The position oversees research programs, supervises staff, manages projects and resources, and advances collaborations with state and federal agencies while delivering high-quality scientific outcomes

Qualifications

• Advanced scientific knowledge in hydrogeology and water resources research.
• Strong leadership, management, and staff development capabilities.
• Experience managing research programs, budgets, grants, contracts, and equipment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including publications and presentations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct research in hydrogeology, hydrology, groundwater flow, and related areas.
• Collect, analyze, interpret, and publish data and present findings at professional venues.
• Manage hydrogeology and regional research projects, budgets, proposals, and equipment.
• Identify emerging research needs and develop long-term strategies.
• Pursue external funding opportunities and prepare competitive proposals.

Skills

Hydrogeology

Water resources research

Leadership

Staff development

Proposal writing

Education

PhD

Job description

Working Title Hydrogeology Team Lead and Facility Manager

Department Name

Department Name 40520:KY Geological Survey

Work Location

Work Location Lexington, KY

Grade Level 50

Salary Range

Salary Range $83,283-141,565/year

Type of Position

Type of Position Staff

Position Time Status

Position Time Status Full-Time

Required Education

PhD

Required License/Registration/Certification

None

Physical Requirements

Sitting or standing for long periods of time. Research field work required. Lifting, pushing, pulling, carrying objects up to 50 lbs.

Shift

Monday – Friday 8-5pm

Job Summary

Lead Groundwater Resources and Strategic Hydrogeology Programs for Kentucky’s Future

The University of Kentucky is seeking a Water Resources Team Lead and Facility Manager to join the Kentucky Geological Survey ( KGS ).

This position provides scientific, operational, and strategic leadership for hydrogeology research and water resource initiatives that support the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The role oversees research programs, supervises scientific staff, manages projects and resources, develops funding opportunities, and advances collaborative partnerships while ensuring high-quality scientific outcomes and public service.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and conduct research in hydrogeology, hydrology, groundwater flow, fracture and granular aquifers, low-temperature geochemistry, near-surface geophysics, and remote sensing.
• Collect, analyze, interpret, and publish scientific data and present research findings at professional meetings, seminars, workshops, and conferences.
• Manage hydrogeology and regional research projects, including project planning, budgets, funded agreements, proposals, equipment, and associated operational processes.
• Identify emerging research needs and develop long-term strategies to advance hydrogeology and water resources programs.
• Pursue external funding opportunities and prepare competitive proposals that support program growth and scientific advancement.
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with KGS , University of Kentucky, state agencies, federal agencies, and external partners.
• Supervise scientific staff, direct research activities, conduct performance evaluations, and support employee development and mentoring.
• Ensure research quality, integrity, and productivity through effective leadership, planning, and performance management.
• Support stakeholder engagement by providing scientific expertise, responding to public inquiries, and representing KGS as a trusted source of information.
• Contribute to KGS strategic initiatives and collaborate on the development of outward-facing scientific and educational materials.

What You’ll Bring

• Advanced scientific knowledge and experience in hydrogeology and water resources research.
• Strong leadership, management, and staff development capabilities.
• Experience managing research programs, budgets, grants, contracts, and scientific equipment.
• Effective proposal writing, strategic planning, and program development skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including scientific publications and presentations.
• Ability to build collaborative relationships across disciplines, agencies, and stakeholder groups.
• Strong organizational, project management, and computer skills.
• Knowledge of research administration and institutional policies and procedures.
• 6 years of related experience

What’s In It for You

• Opportunity to lead impactful groundwater and hydrogeology research that benefits communities across Kentucky.
• Ability to shape long-term scientific programs and contribute to statewide water resource initiatives.
• Opportunities for professional growth through leadership development programs, scientific conferences, workshops, seminars, and professional engagement.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? Yes

Preferred Education/Experience

Deadline to Apply

Deadline to Apply 10/19/2026

Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.