Hydrogeologist

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.

Madison, WI

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.

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

• 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.

• 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.

• 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…