Geologist

Posting Details

Job Title Geologist I

Requisition Number RE55495

Working Title Field Geologist

Department Name 40520:

KY Geological Survey

Work Location Lexington, KY

Grade Level 42

Salary Range $36,/year

Type of Position Staff

Position Time Status Full-Time

Required Education BS

for more information about equivalencies: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./equivalencies

Required Related Experience No experience required.

Required License/Registration/Certification None

Physical Requirements Sitting or standing for long periods of time. Repetitive computer work. Field work for site visits which require hiking on rough terrain.

Shift Monday – Friday; 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (40 hours/week).

The Kentucky Geological Survey ( KGS ) is hiring an entry level geologist to support research and community engagement activities based out of our office in Lexington, Kentucky. This position will work closely with more senior geologists to complete mapping-related field work in portions of eastern Kentucky. Work may include, but is not limited to, soil and sediment sampling with T-probes, hand augers, portable and truck-mounted coring devices as well as thorough note-taking in mobile GIS platforms.

The successful candidate will thrive in the field under varied conditions, as considerable fieldwork is anticipated. The successful candidate will have basic knowledge and skills in geology, sedimentology, and geospatial analysis, as well as a willingness to learn on the job with supervision from more experienced professionals.

Geologists at the KGS conduct research with the goal of building resilience for the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Kentucky has considerable hazards-related research that relies on a detailed understanding of unconsolidated surficial deposits in vulnerable regions. Therefore, we seek a new colleague that is committed to geomorphological field research, analysis, and engagement with stakeholders in the state and region. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are expected for KGS geologists.

Qualifications:

B.S. in geology or related field from an accredited university is required for the position.

For more information, please contact Kathryn Ellis (kathryn.ellis).

Geological field work, ArcGIS Pro, valid driver’s license for at least 5 years, knowledge of sediment/soil sampling and analysis.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No

knowledge in field geology, MS Office.

Final date to receive applications 09/01/2026

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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.