Senior Scientific Specialist, Geology - Illinois State Geological Survey

Senior Scientific Specialist, Geology

Illinois State Geological Survey

Prairie Research Institute

The Prairie Research Institute (PRI), a research and service institute of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, centrally located between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis, houses five State Scientific Surveys covering a wide range of expertise, including biology, water resources, climate, geology, sustainable technology, and archaeology. PRI's mission is to provide objective, integrated scientific research and services that allow citizens and decision-makers to make choices that ensure sustainable economic development, enduring environmental quality, and cultural resource preservation for the people, businesses, and across Illinois, the nation, and the world.

The Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS) is a premier state geological survey serving the needs of the public, government, and industry with earth science information and research relevant to natural resources, environmental quality, economic vitality, and public safety. ISGS is part of the Prairie Research Institute (PRI) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

ISGS is seeking to hire a Senior Scientific Specialist, Geology to participate in research with the technical team to develop written earth science educational materials tailored to a variety of audiences.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE

Research

• Perform research to assist with the development of the earth science educational materials related to subsurface energy storage and extraction projects. Topics of research will include subsurface geology, reservoir geology, environmental and energy policy, and public acceptance.
• Acquire technical information through independent reading, collaboration with subject-matter experts, observation of tests and experiments, and interpretation of diagrams. Present this information in a manner easily understood by the intended audience.
• Develop earth science educational materials for a variety of audiences (e.g., K-12 learners, educators, and the public) based on material and technical publications prepared by subject matter experts; review the material for clarity and consistency following policy and style requirements.
• Develop or edit materials tailored to specific media and audiences, using knowledge of materials previously released or in process to avoid repetition or contradictions.
• Supervise, mentor, and lead undergraduate students, graduate students, and hourly workers to achieve success and foster a culture of innovation and high-level performance at both individual and organizational levels.This includes task assignment, scheduling, ongoing performance management with coaching and feedback and travel approval.
• Research methods for leveraging past and current reports using AI (e.g., LLMs) to enhance discoverability of technical information.
• Create and maintain production schedules for presentations, reports, and maps.
• Edit articles for publication, often doing substantial rewriting.

Graphical Data Presentation

• Scan and digitize technical diagrams.
• Research and develop technical diagrams related to project needs.
• Translate datasets into presentation-quality formats.

Engagement

• Respond to requests for information and provide technical expertise to PRI staff, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, academia, industry, and the public.
• Attend, participate in, and contribute to meetings, conferences, and workshops.

Outreach and Other

• Contribute to the areas of education, outreach, and/or other service to the Survey, PRI, the University of Illinois, and the state of Illinois.
• Enhance the reputation of the Survey and PRI at the state, national, and international level.
• Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois.
• Complete required administrative documentation, compliance-related forms, certifications, and mandatory training programs accurately and within established deadlines.
• Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in geology, geography, anthropology, environmental science/policy, or other research-based social sciences. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position. At minimum of 2 years' related industry or research experience with a bachelor's degree, with demonstrated experience producing reports of compiled data and research. No related industry or research experience required with a master's degree. Valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree in geology, geography, anthropology, environmental science/policy, or other research-based social sciences. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position. A minimum of 2 years' related industry or research experience in the petroleum or reservoir geology field with a master's degree, with demonstrated experience producing reports of compiled data and research. Knowledge or familiarity with geographic information systems (e.g., ArcGIS Pro, and/or ArcGIS Online), modern scripting/programming languages commonly used in analytical research (e.g., Python, R), geology, engineering, natural resources, statistical methods. Familiarity with innovative methods of information synthesis (e.g., AI / LLMs, etc.) and their applications in developing written communications.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Creativity. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, and Adobe Illustrator (or similar). Ability to communicate information clearly and effectively using appropriate methods. Geology or environmental science knowledge. Ability to develop and follow written workflows. Ability to assist in providing detailed written documentation including program reports, standards-compliant metadata, software instructions, standards, and specifications in a clear, concise, and well-structured manner. Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills. Aptitude to perform effectively in a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Affinity for cooperative and interdisciplinary research with scientists at the Survey, professionals at other Surveys or other academic units, as well as governmental and other academic institutions.

Environmental Demands

This position will take place in an office setting. Occasional travel to meetings, conferences, workshops, and rare field visits will also be required, some of which may require overnight stays. Field visits may include less than ideal conditions (inclement weather, biting insects, remoteness, sites with security concerns, heavy traffic). Travel time is up to 5% of the job with almost all domestic travel and primarily in Illinois and surrounding states.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position. The budgeted starting salary for this position is $70,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.

This position is not eligible for any type of sponsorship for work authorization.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on Friday, October 23, 2026. Apply for this position by using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of the posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered.

Application materials must include the following:

1. Cover letter that clearly outlines your qualifications and experience as it relates to this position

2. A CV or resume

3. Names and contact information (including email addresses) for three professional reference.

Incomplete applications will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Jill Billerman at jrandell@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - the state's flagship public university and one of the world's leading research institutions - every staff member helps shape what's next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you're empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence - where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.

Champaign-Urbana

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.

Requisition ID: 1038672

Job Category: Research

Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu