Academic Staff
Regular
Scientist II
The Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey (WGNHS) is seeking up to two self-motivated, collaborative, engaged, and experienced Hydrogeologists who will conduct applied and fundamental research and mapping to improve our understanding of the hydrogeology of Wisconsin.
The WGNHS is part of the Natural Resources Institute at the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Division of Extension. The Hydrogeologist will report to the Director and State Geologist. The position will require travel and overnight stays to perform research, fieldwork, and outreach across the state. The position will be responsible for the following:
Manage and conduct applied and fundamental groundwater research on various aspects of the hydrogeology of Wisconsin in a timely and efficient manner including project leadership, project management, seeking funding as appropriate, planning, preparation of proposals, budgeting, field work, data management, and report/manuscript preparation.
Perform field work, such as monitoring-well installation, water-level measurement, streamflow measurement, pumping and slug tests, surface and borehole geophysical measurement, and collection of water samples.
Collect, analyze, and interpret hydrogeologic data using subsurface data and literature reviews; develop and update project-specific databases; exchange and share data with project cooperators; and incorporate subsurface and surface mapping data into WGNHS databases.
Communicate the results of investigations through workshops, training sessions, and lectures for a variety of scientific, technical, regulatory, governmental, and public audiences, and publication of peer-reviewed written reports and maps.
Serve the geologic and hydrogeologic community through internal and external peer review of publications and service on committees.
Supervise and mentor student employees.
Collaborate with other WGNHS staff and local, state, Tribal, and federal agencies.
Respond to the public's questions and problems concerning Wisconsin's geology and hydrogeology.
Reach a wide audience and ensure access to programs, facilities, and educational services in a manner that serves all residents of Wisconsin.
Be responsive to evolving position, program, and organizational needs; perform additional duties as requested.
Applicants for this position will be considered for Scientist II and Scientist III titles. The title is determined by the experience and qualifications of the finalist. Pay is commensurate with experience.
The Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey is located within Madison, WI.
This position requires some work to be performed in-person, onsite, at a designated campus work location. Some work may be performed remotely, at an offsite, non-campus work location. Remote work requires an approved flexible work arrangement (FWA). A FWA requires successful candidates to possess their own high-speed internet and phone to perform the work on a university provided computer. Per University policy, transportation between home and assigned work location is not payable/reimbursable and will be at the expense of the employee.
This position has the possibility of working up to 2 days remote per the WGNHS remote work policy.
It is expected that employees will make individual arrangements for transportation adequate to meet position responsibilities and essential job functions. Read more about UW-Madison Driver Authorization.
Applicants are required to: Have a valid drivers license and a reliable source of independent transportation for periodic in-state work travel, and/or comply with requirements for UW-Madison vehicle use authorization.
The position is advertised with an FTE range of 80–100% (32–40 hours per week).
Ability to lift 50 pounds with assistance
Ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions
Sitting, standing, and walking over uneven ground will be required
- Attends and assists with the facilitation of scholarly events and presentations in support of continued professional development and the dissemination of research information
- Identifies research problems and develops complex research methodologies and procedures
- Serves as a unit subject matter expert and liaison to internal and external stakeholders providing advanced level information and representing the interests of a specialized research area
- Writes or assists in developing grant applications and proposals to secure research funding
- Collects and analyzes complex research data, conducts experiments and interviews, and documents results according to established policies and procedures under general supervision
- Conducts literature reviews, prepares reports and materials, and disseminates information to appropriate entities
- Monitors program budget and approves unit expenditures
- May supervise the day-to-day activities of a research unit as needed
The Division of Extension, Natural Resources Institute, Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey is hiring for two Hydrogeologists.
Extension embodies the Wisconsin Idea by developing and connecting the research and educational resources of UW–Madison with residents and communities to address local, statewide, and national issues. We teach, learn, lead and serve, transforming lives and communities.
The Extension Natural Resources Institute (https://naturalresources.extension.wisc.edu/) addresses today's critical environmental issues, particularly the sustainable management of food, water, and energy, by using collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches grounded in an understanding of human interactions with resources. We leverage our team of researchers and outreach specialists to provide science-based information and education, embodying the Wisconsin Idea through extensive partnerships. Ultimately, our mission is to empower individuals and communities to make informed decisions that benefit our shared natural resources through a variety of programs.
The WGNHS is a part of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Division of Extension, Natural Resources Institute. We conduct earth-science surveys, field studies, and research. We provide objective scientific information about the geology, mineral resources, and water resources of Wisconsin. We collect, interpret, disseminate, and archive natural resource information. We communicate the results of our activities through publications, technical talks, and responses to inquiries from the public. These activities support informed decision-making by government, industry, business, and individual citizens.
The minimum annual (12 months) starting salary for the position is $75,000. The expected starting salary for this position is in the range of $75,000 - $100,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience.
Applicants for this position will be considered for Scientist II and Scientist III titles. The title is determined by the experience and qualifications of the finalist. Pay is commensurate with experience
The position is advertised with an FTE range of 80–100% (32–40 hours per week). Final compensation will be prorated based on the selected FTE if the finalist elects to work less than full-time.
This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including generous paid time off, competitively priced health/dental/vision/life insurance, tax-advantaged savings accounts, and participation in the nationally recognized Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund. Please review the summary of benefits
Minimum of 2 years relevant professional experience in hydrogeology, hydrology, or a closely related field is required by the start date of the position.
Broad training in the geological sciences, and experience in working with subsurface data sets.
Interest and specialized experience/training in at least one of the following fields related to hydrogeology: applied geophysics, karst/fractured rock systems, hydrostratigraphy, geochemistry, groundwater modeling, or contaminant hydrogeology.
Experience in project management including scoping work, managing budgets, and delivering products in accordance with project timelines.
Experience in leading and conducting field-based hydrologic investigations.
Skills and experience in presenting hydrological data in maps, cross-sections, and graphs.
Demonstrated ability to write, present, educate, and otherwise communicate ideas effectively to a broad audience.
Demonstrated experience with hydrogeologic and GIS software, spreadsheets, and graphic analysis.
Ability to work professionally, courteously, collaboratively, and productively on a project team.
Commitment to developing projects that serve societal needs.
Demonstrated ability to effectively work with people from a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives.
Demonstrated familiarity with the geology and hydrogeology of Wisconsin and/or the geology and hydrogeology of the Upper Midwest or Great Lakes Region of the United States.
Experience in designing an applied research program addressing societal issues relevant to Wisconsin.
Experience developing, securing, and implementing grant-funded research.
Experience with supervising and mentoring others, including students engaged in mutual work projects.
Skillful in establishing and maintaining professional work relationships and networks, especially with local, Tribal, and county governments.
Master's Degree in hydrogeology, hydrology, or a closely related field is required by the start date of the position.
PhD in hydrogeology, hydrology, or closely related field.
We are eager to learn more about how your experience and passion may align with this position and the outreach mission of the WGNHS and the Division of Extension. To begin the application process,
Please note when applying, there will be only one attachment field. You must upload all your documents in the attachment field. Please submit a cover letter referring to your work experience and a resume detailing your educational and professional background as it relates to this position. Your cover letter should communicate your interest in the position and how your skillset aligns with the role. The application reviewers will be relying on written application materials to determine who may advance to preliminary interviews.
For additional guidance and resources on how to tailor your application materials to the job posting, please
Applicants for this position will be considered for the titles Scientist II and Scientist III. The title is determined by the experience and qualifications of the finalist.
Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment.
Application Deadline is August 9, 2026 at 11:59pm (CDT).
Sara Dawson
[email protected]
608-890-2629
Sue Swanson
[email protected]
Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See RELAY_SERVICE for further information.
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The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgrounds and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.
To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodation for any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR) in the division you are applying to. Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.
Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
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