Geologic Mapping Program Manager, Natural Resource Scientist 4 (Nrsci4)

Salary : $78,120.00 - $105,096.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2023-12-7064-15853
Department: Dept. of Natural Resources
Opening Date: 12/14/2023
Closing Date: 1/15/2024 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
Description
Geologic Mapping Program Manager, Natural Resource Scientist 4 (NRSci4)Recruitment #2023-12-7064
Full-time, Permanent, Represented, position
Location: Natural Resources Building- Olympia, WAFlexible Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered -Salary: $6,510.00 - $8,758.00 Monthly
CLOSING DATE EXTENDED! Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 12/21/23. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.
Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
Are you a dynamic leader who is passionate about using geology to improve decision-making at all levels of society? Are you interested in a career that showcases your excellent interpersonal and management skills? The Washington Geological Survey (part of the Department of Natural Resources) is seeking a highly qualified person to join our team as the Geologic Mapping Program Manager.
This person supports a growing team of dedicated and innovative geologists mapping framework geology, critical minerals, and aggregate throughout the state in support of DNR's mission to manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington's lands and waters. As the lead scientist for the Geologic Mapping Program, you will be responsible for managing various aspects of the program, supervising field geology teams, and ensuring the success of grant applications and research projects.
We are looking for someone who possesses not only a broad understanding of geology and (or) mineral resources but also outstanding organizational and communication skills to drive our program forward and make a significant impact. At least half of the Program's funding is delivered through grants with Federal agencies and you will be in charge of developing, writing, and managing these grants (currently >$500k/yr). Your ability to achieve consensus among stakeholder groups, synthesize a huge variety of geology, and write compelling scientific prose will help ensure continued funding success.
We are also looking for someone who excels at strategic thinking in a variety of contexts, including managing multiple field teams with differing needs and goals across the State. You like to cycle between detail and overview and your equanimity in the face of competing priorities and unforeseen challenges will be a foundational tool in helping your teams reach their goals. Your compassion and empathy, humility, and clear communication encourage and foster open lines of connection between you and your teams.
You will be leading the Survey's Geologic Mapping Program, an energetic team working together to collaboratively understand a large variety of geologic issues. Our program is known nationally for producing high-quality geologic maps and products, and your leadership will be a determining factor in achieving long-term success in the mission of both the Program and the Survey.
If you enjoy teamwork, love geology, and want to make a difference and have an impact on how our state and nation are able to provide foundational knowledge for decision making about geologic conditions, this is the job for you.
Duties
Responsibilities:
Program Management (30% of time):

• Propose budgets for new projects, manage budgets for existing projects, and ensure fiscal targets are met.
• Develop funding sources for Geologic Mapping through grant applications and engage with government agencies and legislatures for financial support.
• Manage multiple geologic research projects, provide guidance to project scientists, and ensure tasks are completed on time and within budget.
• Supervision & Mentorship (30% of time):
• Provide personnel support and management for program scientists, supervising field teams, and leading mapping projects.
• Assign project work, set clear expectations, and evaluate performance while ensuring compliance with standards, budget, timeliness, and quality.
• Identify training needs and solicit feedback for improvement.
• Scientific Analysis and Research (20% of time):
• Undertake independent geologic research projects and publish results in peer-reviewed journals or internal publication series to advance geologic knowledge.
• Projects may include detailed Geologic Mapping, mineral resource assessments, critical minerals research, and more.
• Scientific Communication and Outreach (10% of time):
• Provide technical assistance and scientific consultation to government agencies and engage in public outreach through talks, presentations, and written materials.
• Plan and convene the Statemap Advisory Committee Meeting to determine research focus areas.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree with major study in geology or a related natural science field AND 6 years of professional experience. A Master's degree in an allied field will substitute for two years of experience and PhD in an allied field will substitute for 3 years of experience.
• Experience with creating and organizing multiple concurrent research projects, including establishing relationships and collaborating with scientists at diverse organizations, planning and coordinating field logistics, and budgeting.
• At least 2 years of successful people management, mentorship, supervision, and/or teaching across a broad range of personality types and work/life experiences; may be concurrent with the required 6 years of professional experience.
• High-level fluency with geologic maps and the ability to synthesize a broad array of geologic information.
• Familiarity and basic fluency in the use of GIS to develop figures and maps.
• An excellent command of written English, with a preference for clear and concise technical scientific prose.
• Knowledge of basic fiscal principles and their application to developing and managing budgets greater than $200,000/yr.
• The ability and desire to effectively plan complicated logistics for field work, plan project milestones, develop schedules, and other tasks requiring a high level of strategic thinking and logistical planning.
• High-level interpersonal and management competencies, including:
  • A deep desire to learn and improve
  • Introspection and humility
  • Imagination, innovation, and creative thinking
  • Equanimity in the face of competing priorities and difficult situations
  • The ability to consult with others before making decisions AND the ability to make decisions without consulting others.

The ability to work at different scales (detailed versus high-level overview, for example) and determine which scales are the most relevant for a given problem or question.

DNR Core Competencies:

• Personal Accountability
• Value Others
• Compassionate Communication
• Inspire Others
• Commitment to Excellence

Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:

• A Licensed Geologist certification is required within 2 years of employment.
• Field (outdoor) and office (indoor). Field work occurs spring through fall and may
  require work in adverse weather conditions, navigating difficult terrain on foot, and
  handling field equipment in excess of 50 pounds. Office work occurs over the winter.
• In-state, with occasional out-of-state
• A valid unrestricted driver's license and have two years of driving experience. This position requires driving as an essential function. Finalists and/or interview candidates will be asked to provide a driving record from all states in which they have held a license during the past three years.

Desired Qualifications:

• Expertise in geochronology, geochemistry, geophysics, paleontology, neotectonics, geologic hazards, earth resources (mineral, oil and gas, aggregate, others), structural geology and tectonics, hydrogeology or hydrology, all with a preference towards multi- or inter-disciplinary collaboration.
• Geologic knowledge of Washington State.
• Advanced understanding and fluency with GIS platforms, including schema development and mobile deployments.
• Programming languages, with some preference towards Python.
• The desire and ability to improve workflows.
• History of successful grant writing.
• Previous budget management, including the use of spreadsheets or other software to develop budgets and track costs.
• Experience working directly with government agencies (local, county, state, federal) and members of the public on geologic issues.
• The ability and desire to lead multi-stakeholder outreach meetings that seek consensus.

Don't let doubts stop you from applying for this position - If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your past experience relates to them, please contact us at A note to potential candidates: Studies have shown that women, trans, non-binary, Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) are less likely to apply for jobs unless they feel they meet every qualification as described in a job description. We value diversity and inclusion in our organization, and we are looking for the best person for the job. Don't hesitate to apply!
Supplemental Information
Application Requirements:

• To be considered you must apply online at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above).
• Attach a letter of interest describing how your experience and qualifications relate to the position profile and the position required, desired, and special requirements.
• Attach a resume describing your experience and qualifications.
• Provide three to five professional references - you may attach a document, use the References text field in the online application, or include it with your resume.
• Provide a representative sample of your technical geologic writing or a grant proposal. We are looking for candidates who are succinct and clear. The sample should be wholly or mostly of your own effort.
• Provide a representative sample of your Geologic Mapping.
• Attach a copy of your college degree certificate or an unofficial copy of your transcripts. If you have questions regarding attaching this document please contact If you do not attach your college degree certificate or an unofficial copy of your transcript your application will not move forward in the application process.
• Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (social security number, year of birth, etc.).
• Complete all supplemental questions.
• For those selected to interview, there will be a one to two hour take-home test and a 75-minute interview where you will provide a 15-min presentation on a topic relevant to Geologic Mapping or scientific program management. Candidates will also participate in an informal 60-min informal Q-and-A session with the Mapping Program. Top-ranked candidates will have a third interview with WGS upper management.
• Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at with interview information/scheduling instructions. Please monitor the email listed in your application materials and check your junk email folder to ensure you receive those communications.

Questions? Please contact Alex Steely at /360-999-0115 or e-mail us at
About the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
At DNR we approach our work through the lens of making Washington a better place environmentally and are dedicated to serving Washington's lands and communities through diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Our Vision - Our actions ensure a future where Washington's lands, waters, and communities thrive.
Our Mission - Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington's lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.
Our Core Values:

• Safety and Well-Being -Our top priority is the safety of the public and our employees.
• Public Service -We value and respect the public we serve, and we value and respect the people of the Department of Natural Resources who step up to serve.
• Innovation and Creative Problem-Solving - We solve our state's most pressing challenges through innovative thinking, dedication, and bold and creative vision.
• Leadership and Teamwork -We are committed to building leaders at all levels and building teams for success.

DNR provides excellent benefits, a few of which include:

• Commitment to organizational health and wellness
• Work/life balance
• DNR Employee Resource Groups (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, Women's Employee Resource Group, Veterans Employee Resource Group, etc.)
• Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups,
• Leadership that empowers and supports employees
• Professional development opportunities
• Educational and career development aid
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility
• Opportunities to participate in wildland fire suppression assignments
• A comprehensive benefits package that includes employer contributions toward health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, sick leave, and vacation days. Visit for more information.

Additional Information:
This recruitment may be extended and may also be used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.
DNR does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit
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