What are the responsibilities and job description for the USGS Geologic Mapping in the Columbia River Gorge Question position at Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education?
Organization
U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI)
Reference Code
DOI-USGS-2026-46-B
How To Apply
To submit your application, scroll to the bottom of this opportunity and click APPLY.
A Complete Application Consists Of
Connect with ORISE...on the GO! Download the new ORISE GO mobile app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to help you stay engaged, connected, and informed during your ORISE experience and beyond!”
Description
The USGS mission is to monitor, analyze, and predict current and evolving dynamics of complex human and natural Earth-system interactions and to deliver actionable intelligence at scales and timeframes relevant to decision makers. As the Nation's largest water, earth, and biological science and civilian mapping agency, USGS collects, monitors, analyzes, and provides science about natural resource conditions, issues, and problems.
Research Project: This is a long-term project to complete high resolution (1:24,000-scale) geologic mapping of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Washington and Oregon. From the mapping, project scientists aim to improve understanding of hazards and processes associated with volcanism, tectonic deformation, mass movements, and floods. Additionally, we're striving to understand the processes and events that have created the modern landscape.
You would collaborate with multiple project scientists on field mapping, rock and sediment sample collection, and possibly some minimal sample processing in preparation for analysis. Some or much of the fieldwork will be in challenging (steep, vegetated) terrain, sometimes involving long hikes, backpacking, and heavy loads.
Learning Objectives: You will gain experience as an active participant in an established geologic mapping program. You will gain geologic mapping skills as well as increased familiarity with the geology of the Pacific Northwest.
Mentor: The mentor for this opportunity is Jim O'Connor (oconnor@usgs.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s).
Anticipated Appointment Start Date: July 13, 2026. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.
Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for 10 weeks, but may be renewed upon recommendation of DOI and is contingent on the availability of funds.
Level of Participation: The appointment is full time.
Participant Stipend: Stipend rates may vary based on numerous factors, including opportunity, location, education, and experience. If you are interviewed, you can inquire about the exact stipend rate at that time and if selected, your appointment offer will include the monthly stipend rate.
Citizenship Requirements: This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR), and foreign nationals. Non-U.S. citizen applicants should refer to the Guidelines for Non-U.S. Citizens Details page of the program website for information about the valid immigration statuses that are acceptable for program participation.
ORISE Information: This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and USGS. Participants do not become employees of USGS, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.
Questions: If you have questions about the application process please email USGS@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.
Qualifications
The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a bachelor's or master's degree in the one of the relevant fields. Degree must have been received within the past four years, or anticipated to be received by 6/1/2029.
Point of Contact
Rachel
Eligibility Requirements">12 )
U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI)
Reference Code
DOI-USGS-2026-46-B
How To Apply
To submit your application, scroll to the bottom of this opportunity and click APPLY.
A Complete Application Consists Of
- An application
- Transcript(s) – For this opportunity, an unofficial transcript or copy of the student academic records printed by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institution systems may be submitted. Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.
- A current resume/CV, including academic history, employment history, relevant experiences, and publication list
- Two educational or professional recommendations.
Connect with ORISE...on the GO! Download the new ORISE GO mobile app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to help you stay engaged, connected, and informed during your ORISE experience and beyond!”
Description
- Applications will be reviewed on a rolling-basis.
The USGS mission is to monitor, analyze, and predict current and evolving dynamics of complex human and natural Earth-system interactions and to deliver actionable intelligence at scales and timeframes relevant to decision makers. As the Nation's largest water, earth, and biological science and civilian mapping agency, USGS collects, monitors, analyzes, and provides science about natural resource conditions, issues, and problems.
Research Project: This is a long-term project to complete high resolution (1:24,000-scale) geologic mapping of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Washington and Oregon. From the mapping, project scientists aim to improve understanding of hazards and processes associated with volcanism, tectonic deformation, mass movements, and floods. Additionally, we're striving to understand the processes and events that have created the modern landscape.
You would collaborate with multiple project scientists on field mapping, rock and sediment sample collection, and possibly some minimal sample processing in preparation for analysis. Some or much of the fieldwork will be in challenging (steep, vegetated) terrain, sometimes involving long hikes, backpacking, and heavy loads.
Learning Objectives: You will gain experience as an active participant in an established geologic mapping program. You will gain geologic mapping skills as well as increased familiarity with the geology of the Pacific Northwest.
Mentor: The mentor for this opportunity is Jim O'Connor (oconnor@usgs.gov). If you have questions about the nature of the research please contact the mentor(s).
Anticipated Appointment Start Date: July 13, 2026. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors.
Appointment Length: The appointment will initially be for 10 weeks, but may be renewed upon recommendation of DOI and is contingent on the availability of funds.
Level of Participation: The appointment is full time.
Participant Stipend: Stipend rates may vary based on numerous factors, including opportunity, location, education, and experience. If you are interviewed, you can inquire about the exact stipend rate at that time and if selected, your appointment offer will include the monthly stipend rate.
Citizenship Requirements: This opportunity is available to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR), and foreign nationals. Non-U.S. citizen applicants should refer to the Guidelines for Non-U.S. Citizens Details page of the program website for information about the valid immigration statuses that are acceptable for program participation.
ORISE Information: This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and USGS. Participants do not become employees of USGS, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE.
Questions: If you have questions about the application process please email USGS@orau.org and include the reference code for this opportunity.
Qualifications
The qualified candidate should be currently pursuing or have received a bachelor's or master's degree in the one of the relevant fields. Degree must have been received within the past four years, or anticipated to be received by 6/1/2029.
Point of Contact
Rachel
Eligibility Requirements">12 )
- Degree: Associate's Degree, Bachelor's Degree, or Master's Degree received within the last 48 months or anticipated to be received by 6/1/2029 12:00:00 AM.
- Discipline(s):
- Chemistry and Materials Sciences (
Show more