USGS Building Science : User-Driven Front-End Design and Workflow Optimization

Overview

Organization: U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI)

Reference Code: DOI-USGS-2026-35

• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is located in Fort Collins, Colorado. The USGS mission is to monitor, analyze, and predict current and evolving dynamics of complex human and natural Earth‑system interactions and provide science at scales relevant to decision makers.

As USGS modernizes its scientific data delivery, there is growing demand for user‑centered web applications. The project involves front‑end design and user research for high‑visibility USGS science applications, including modernization of the Breeding Bird Survey, the Permitting Partner Portal, and the Surface Disturbance and Reclamation Tracking Tool (SDARTT). These initiatives require expertise in UX research, front‑end development, and workflow mapping across diverse user communities.

• Collaboration with USGS scientists and technical staff, translating scientific workflows into data‑driven tools.
• Development of UX research skills, including interviewing, usability testing, workflow mapping, and synthesizing user needs.
• Proficiency in modern front‑end tools (e.g., Figma) for wire framing, prototyping, and documenting design requirements.
• Understanding of software development processes in a science agency, including agile workflows and design–research integration.

Brian Reichert (breichert)

Start Date: June 15, 2026 (flexible)

Duration: 10 weeks, renewable as funding allows

Level of Participation: Full time

Stipend: Varies; details provided upon interview.

U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and eligible foreign nationals may apply. Non‑U.S. citizens should review the program’s immigration eligibility guidelines.

Participants are managed through ORAU under an interagency agreement with DOE and USGS. Participants are not employees of USGS, DOE, or ORAU, and no employment benefits are provided. Proof of health insurance is required; it can be obtained through ORISE.

Email USGS with the reference code for any inquiries about the application process.

The candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field within the last 48 months, or anticipate completion by June 1, 2029.

Rachel

• Degree:
  Bachelor’s or Master’s degree received within the last 48 months or anticipated by June 1, 2029.
• Discipline(s):
  • Chemistry and Materials Sciences:
    Analytical Chemistry, Bio‑inorganic Chemistry, Bio‑organic Chemistry, Biophysical Chemistry, Chemistry (General), Environmental Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Materials Sciences, Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Theoretical Chemistry.
  • Communications and Graphics Design.
  • Computer, Information, and Data Sciences.
  • Earth and Geosciences.
  • Engineering.
  • Environmental and Marine Sciences.
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences.
  • Mathematics and Statistics.
  • Physics.
  • Science & Engineering‑related.
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences.