What are the responsibilities and job description for the Postdoctoral Scholar position at New Mexico Tech?
Posted: September 11, 2026
LOCATED IN CARLSBAD, NM
POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT
TITLE: POSTDOCTORAL SCHOLAR
DEPT: NATIONAL CAVE AND KARST INSTITUTE
REG LIMITED TERM TEMP FULL TIME PART TIME
STARTING RATE or SALARY RANGE $ $60,000 - $65,000
Employees being promoted to a higher classified position receive the minimum for the position or a pay rate adjustment of 8% whichever is greater.
All regular positions also entitle the employee to several benefits including health, dental, vision, life insurance, and retirement which is largely paid by
New Mexico Tech for the employee and dependents.
INTERNAL POSTING THROUGH: Concurrent CONSIDERATION WILL BE GIVEN FIRST TO TEMPORARY AND REGULAR TECH EMPLOYEES WHO APPLY
WITHIN THE 7 DAY INTERNAL POSTING. APPLICATIONS RECEIVED AFTER THE 7 DAY POSTING MARGIN WILL BE CONSIDERED WITH OTHER OUTSIDE APPLICANTS.
JOB SUMMARY:
The postdoctoral scholar will complement NCKRI’s existing expertise and be responsible for data collection,
analysis, management, and for manuscript preparation for peer -reviewed publications. This is a
developmental, limited-term (typically 1 -2 years) car eer-path position that is restricted to graduates of
accredited university Ph.D. or equivalent programs. Second year of funding is contingent on approval.
JOB FUNCTIONS:
Manages a cave paleontology inventory project including developing a geospatial database, photogrammetry
of resources, and prioritization method protective action.
Publish as lead and co-author, on cutting edge research in appropriate scientific journals, conferences, and
other outlets as appropriate.
Assist as a subject matter expert in field of applicant’s background through:
? responding to public information requests,
? working with NCKRI outreach program to develop science communication, and
? assisting NCKRI Cave and Karst Management Specialist in addressing NPS needs in area of expertise
Attend conferences and other meetings to present research results, collaborate with colleagues, build
relationships with potential colleagues and students, and promote NCKRI and NMT
Other duties as assigned important to the function, success, and reputation of NMT/NCKRI
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Ph.D. or other doctorate level equivalent in Paleontology or related field. Ability to safely conduct fieldwork in
remote desert settings. Skill to plan and conduct credible C&K paleontological research in cost -effective,
efficient, timely, and professional ways. Excellent ability to communicate C&K science both orally and in
writing, using standard computer software. Ability to work collaboratively on an interdisciplinary team.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge of cave paleontology in the Southwestern United States . Experience working in caves with
varying levels of access from accessible show caves to unexplored cave passages. Experience leading field
teams to ensure safety of each team member, minimal resource impact, and successful data collection.
LIFTING REQUIREMENTS:
(f)requently, (o)ccasionally, or (s)eldom
0 - 15 pounds F
15 - 30 pounds F
30 - 50 pounds O
50 - 100 pounds S
100 + pounds S
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Standing 10% Sitting 50% Walking 30% Pulling
Pushing Lifting Stooping 2% Kneeling 2%
Crawling 2% Climbing 2% Reaching Other
Apply to: nmtjobapps@npe.nmt.edu
Salary : $60,000 - $65,000