Energy Resource Geologist; Natural Resource Specialist

Position: Energy Resource Geologist (Natural Resource Specialist 4)

Energy Resource Geologist (Natural Resource Specialist
4) at the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI). The role focuses on permitting, inspection, enforcement, statutory drafting, policy development, and coordination with federal, state, and local agencies for oil, gas, and geothermal resources.

Base Pay Range

• Initial Posting Date: 12/22/2025
• Final date to receive applications: 01/05/2026
• Agency:
  Department of Geology and Mineral Industries
• Salary Range: $6,123 - $9,409 Monthly (based on education and experience)
• Position Type:
  Employee
• Position Title:
  
  Energy Resource Geologist (Natural Resource Specialist
  4)

Compensation

• Salary: $6,123 - $9,409 monthly
• Differential:
  Oregon Certified Geologist – 5% above base rate

What You’ll Do

As the Energy Resource Geologist you will be the technical expert for a small statewide regulatory program responsible for the exploration and development of oil, gas and geothermal resources in Oregon. Responsibilities include permitting, inspection, enforcement, statutory and rule drafting, policy development, and coordination with federal and state agencies.

You will conduct permit and site file reviews, field inspections, and first‑level enforcement to ensure drilling and related activities do not cause environmental degradation or adverse impacts to groundwater and adjacent or onsite natural resources.

For a full review of the position description, please .

Minimum Qualifications

• Three years of experience in petroleum, geothermal/hydrothermal, mineral resource or mining geology or a closely related field.
• At least one year of the experience must be at a technical or professional level performing activities in a natural resource program such as researching and analyzing data, conducting investigations, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities.
• A Bachelor’s degree in petroleum geology, petroleum engineering, hydrogeology, geotechnical engineering or a closely related physical science; OR three additional years of related experience.

Equivalency Notes

• A Master’s degree in a related field substitutes for up to one year of the required experience.
• A Doctorate degree in a related field substitutes for up to two years of the required experience.

Special Qualifications and Compensation Note

• Professional Licensure:
  Must obtain Oregon licensure as a Registered Geologist or equivalent within one year of appointment. A 5% salary differential will be added for licensure.
• Those holding an Oregon Certified Geologist certification earn 5% above base rate.

The ideal candidate will possess the following desired skills and attributes:

• Demonstrated experience in well drilling techniques, regulations, policy development, and application of statutes and rules.
• Advanced project management knowledge, including coordination among local, state, federal, and Tribal partners.
• Experience with well logging instrumentation, GIS software, database management, data analysis, and interpretation.
• Strong communication skills, able to present complex scientific information to technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Clear, concise writing of investigative, technical, or narrative reports with analysis and recommendations for regulatory determinations.

Application Details and Instructions

• Submit your application via the State of Oregon job opportunities webpage. Ensure your applicant profile is up‑to‑date and attach a current copy of your resume and cover letter. Current State of Oregon employees must apply through their Workday account.
• This announcement is for one full‑time exempt permanent position and may be used to fill future vacancies.
• Save a copy of this job announcement for reference; it will not be available after the job closes. For questions or alternate application formats, contact Recruiter Nancy Karnas (nancy.karnasgon.gov | 971‑719‑3083).

The Benefits of Joining Our Team

• Work/life balance, 11 paid holidays per year, and a competitive benefits package.
• Advancement and learning opportunities within the State of Oregon.
• Use of Oregon’s carpool matching tool and trip planner.
• Live, work, and play in Albany, Oregon.
• Hybrid work schedule available after onboarding and integration.

Additional Details

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license issued by the state of residence.
• Finalists subject to a computerized criminal history check. Adverse background data may lead to immediate disqualification.
• No visa sponsorship. Must complete I‑9 and demonstrate authorization within three days of hire.
• Eligible veterans who meet qualifications receive veterans’ preference.
• Salary listed is non‑PERS qualifying; PERS qualifying salary includes an additional 6.95%.

Helpful Links & Resources

Oregon Job Opportunities Webpage | How to Set Job Alerts

Workday Applicant FAQ | What You Need to Know to Get the Job

#J-18808-Ljbffr