Senior Laboratory Technician - MN Geological Survey

Temporary Field Assistant and Technician

** THIS IS A TEMPORARY 2-9 MONTH POSITION **

Salary: $22.51/hourly

Work Schedule: M-F; 8:00AM-4:30PM (exclusive of field work)

* Field-based tasks ~75% of time (*Fieldwork is project-dependent, and demand will be high. Fieldwork is typically done in teams of two to ensure safety. Field safety training is available):
o Operate Giddings soil probe to collect subsurface samples
o Drive a variety of vehicles, from small sedans to 4wd pickup trucks, commonly for long distances for 5+ hours
o Collect passive and occasionally conventional seismic data
o Assist geologist with processing core samples at rotary-sonic drilling sites
o Transport core samples to and from storage facilities
o Assist geologist with logging and archiving core samples
o Navigate using a compass and or GPS unit
o Hike and potentially camp for bedrock geology fieldwork
o Paddle, steer, and occasionally portage a canoe

* Office and Laboratory-based tasks: ~25% of time
o Discern rock composition using a binocular microscope (grain counts)
o Analyze well cuttings
o Enter data into existing databases, sometimes utilizing Geographic Information Systems
o Assist geologists in responding to public inquiries regarding rock and mineral identification
o Occasionally process sediment samples in texture lab, depending on staff availability

* The Minnesota Geological Survey retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Minimum/Essential Qualifications:

* High school diploma or equivalent with some science courses and two years of experience in relevant academic and work experience may be substituted.
* Willingness to learn new geological field and lab skills
* Valid driver's license
* Work travel flexibility (Position requires repeated Monday - Friday overnight travel throughout Minnesota).

Preferred Qualifications:
* Associate or Bachelor's Degree with some science courses such as geology, soil science, hydrogeology, physical geography, natural resources, environmental science, or related fields. Two years of work experience in relevant positions may be substituted.
* Interest in working outdoors in addition to office setting
* Experience driving a variety of vehicles, from small sedans to 4wd pickup trucks, for long distances (5+ hours)
* Experience with a handheld GPS or other navigational tools such as a compass and topographic maps
* Willingness to learn to operate a Giddings soil probe
* Familiarity with data entry
* Effective written and verbal communication skills

The Minnesota Geological Survey is a research and service arm of the Newton Horace Winchell School of Earth Sciences at the University of Minnesota. It investigates the geology of Minnesota and provides basic public information on the geology of the state. The Survey works with state, county, and regional offices to set up geologic data bases and provide technical guidance for water resource planning, land management and mineral exploration policy, energy system development, and other planning and resource management activities.

We are an off-campus location on Territorial Road., St. Paul (near Hwy 280 and University Ave.)

Fixed Pay Rate: $22.51 per hour

Time Appointment: 75%-100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Applications due by March 28, 2025

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).