Project Geologist

PROJECT GEOLOGIST

FT / PT Status – Full-Time

Salary – $35.16 - $52.80 Hourly Wage

Highest offer rate will be $45.00

Remote Work / In-Office – Hybrid

Recruiter – Karen Weir | kweir@utah.gov | 8015387425

Application Deadline – 4/13/2026

Key Responsibilities

Job Description

The Energy and Minerals Program at the Utah Geological Survey (UGS) is looking for a Project Geologist specialized in economic geology to join our team. This position will lead federally funded grant projects to improve understanding, characterization, and data availability on Utah’s metallic mineral resources, including critical minerals. This position is expected to begin in spring 2026 and is fully funded through summer 2028, with potential for extension. Multi-day fieldwork across Utah, including in remote areas, is part of this role. Position is fully benefited.

Principal Duties

• Lead field- and desktop-based projects on site-specific and regional mineral resource topics; develop geologic expertise in Utah's mineral resources and share this expertise with diverse stakeholders via conferences, publishing, and public interaction.
• Conduct fit for purpose data collection (geologic mapping, geochemical sampling, analytical measurements, etc.); publish and present results and interpretations of data-driven research.
• Collaborate with other UGS staff and external partners to strengthen research and project connections as they relate to mineral resources.
• Project management (e.g., logistics, timelines, deliverables, etc.) of multiple grant-funded projects, including organizing and overseeing field teams; propose and scope future project concepts.
  
  

Qualifications

Minimum/Required Qualifications

Experience & Education

• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in metallic mineral resources (e.g., copper, gold, etc.), OR a comparable combination of education and professional experience that meets the threshold for a Professional Geologist license in Utah. https://adminrules.utah.gov/public/rule/R156-76/Current Rules
• The candidate must be eligible to obtain the Professional Geology license in the State of Utah within one year of employment, per the experience thresholds for licensure.
• Demonstrated experience in economic geology research, including examples of report/publication write-ups.
  
  

Technical & Field Skills

• Experience with remote field work and the ability to work independently while maintaining a safety-focused mindset. 4WD experience is highly valued.
• Intermediate or better proficiency in ArcGIS Pro and AGOL, and general computer literacy.
  
  

Work Style & Professionalism

• Highly motivated to work independently, proactively communicate within a larger team structure, and take on self-directed learning.
• Detail-oriented, committed to completing deliverables on time, and meticulous in file and data management.
  
  

Education/Certification

Preference / Additional Qualifications

• B.S. in geosciences; M.S. or Ph.D. preferred.
• Currently holds a Professional Geologist License. https://adminrules.utah.gov/public/rule/R156-76/Current Rules
  
  

About The Role

Location –

1594 West North Temple

Salt Lake City, Utah, 84116

United States

Background Check Required – No

Drug Test Required – No

Schedule Code – TL - Time limited

Why You Should Join Our Team

Benefits

In Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah , click here . Other benefits may include:

• Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
• Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
• Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
• Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.
  
  

The Agency Utah is a geological wonderland, from its well-known red rock canyon country to its complex basin and range geology, uplands, plateaus, and mountains. This position offers a unique opportunity to build technical and professional skills by leading large, grant-funded projects, collaborating across a range of stakeholders and partners, and delivering impactful research on Utah's diverse mineral resources and landscapes.

The Utah Geological Survey (UGS) is one of the leading state Geological Surveys in the U.S., with a long track record of publishing high-quality framework data to support the characterization of Utah's mineral resources. Our team of experienced geologists provides opportunities for independence and autonomy in leading projects, while still maintaining a strong team framework and culture to support success. We value enjoying personal time in Utah's stunning landscape as much as professional time and strongly support work-life balance.

About

To learn more about the Division of Utah Geological Survey or the Department of Natural Resources please click the links, below:

https://naturalresources.utah.gov/

https://geology.utah.gov/

https://geology.utah.gov/energy-minerals/

Supplemental Information

• Risks which require the use of special safety precautions and/or equipment, e.g., working around operating machines, working with contagious diseases or hazardous chemicals, etc.
• The work requires considerable and strenuous physical exertion such as frequent climbing, lifting heavy objects over 50 pounds, crouching or crawling in restricted areas, defending oneself and/or others against physical attack.
• The applicant must be capable of and willing to perform remote field work involving hiking and travel on and off trails on foot with a pack and equipment. Must be able to work alone in wilderness settings.
• Valid Driver's license is required.
  
  

EEO Statement

The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.