Geoscientist

THE POSITION

Would you enjoy a career which allows you to use your scientific expertise to directly shape environmental decisions that protect communities and natural resources? As a Geoscientist for the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), you will have the fulfilling opportunity to apply your scientific skills to real-world environmental work. This role allows you to study how mining activities affect water, land, and our surrounding communities. You will help evaluate data and support decisions that protect the Commonwealth's natural resources. Apply today for a meaningful profession where you can make a positive environmental impact!

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

This role focuses on evaluating mining operations, assessing environmental impacts, and reviewing scientific data for regulatory decision making. You will interpret geologic and hydrologic information, coordinate technical reviews, and support permitting processes. As a Geoscientist, you will perform the following duties:

• Review Permits: Assess mining permit applications and evaluate geologic and hydrologic data
• Analyze Impacts: Interpret water quality, flow data, and environmental conditions to determine potential impacts
• Coordinate Reviews: Work with agencies and staff to complete technical evaluations and permit decisions
• Prepare Reports: Develop clear technical deficiency letters, findings, and recommendations
• Inspect Sites: Visit mine sites to collect data and identify pollution risks
• Support Investigations: Assist with water loss studies, stream recovery evaluations, and closure plan reviews

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time, up to 3 days per week. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Coal Center. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview.
• Salary: Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $64,607.00 (before taxes).
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• One year as a Geoscience Trainee (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration); or
• One year of professional geology experience, and a bachelor's degree in geology, hydrogeology, geoscience, geophysics, geochemistry, engineering geology, or a closely related field that includes 30 college credits in geologic coursework; or
• Possession of an active Geologist-in-Training certificate issued by or acceptable to the Pennsylvania State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists, and one year of professional experience in geologic work; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes 30 college credits in geologic coursework.

Special Requirement:

• This position requires possession of an active Pennsylvania non-commercial Class C driver's license or equivalent.

Other Requirements

• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency Guidelines.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be su