Senior Scientific Specialist, Geology - Illinois State Geological Survey
Posted on Oct 9, 2026
Duties Responsibilities Research • Perform research to assist with the development of the earth science educational materials related to subsurface energy storage and extraction projects. Topics of research will include subsurface geology, reservoir geology, environmental and energy policy, and public acceptance. • Acquire technical information through independent reading, collaboration with subject-matter experts, observation of tests and experiments, and interpretation of diagrams. Present this information in a manner easily understood by the intended audience. • Develop earth science educational materials for a variety of audiences (e.g., K-12 learners, educators, and the public) based on material and technical publications prepared by subject matter experts; review the material for clarity and consistency following policy and style requirements. • Develop or edit materials tailored to specific media and audiences, using knowledge of materials previously released or in process to avoid repetition or contradictions. • Supervise, mentor, and lead undergraduate students, graduate students, and hourly workers to achieve success and foster a culture of innovation and high-level performance at both individual and organizational levels. This includes task assignment, scheduling, ongoing performance management with coaching and feedback and travel approval. • Research methods for leveraging past and current reports using AI (e.g., LLMs) to enhance discoverability of technical information. • Create and maintain production schedules for presentations, reports, and maps. • Edit articles for publication, often doing substantial rewriting. Graphical Data Presentation • Scan and digitize technical diagrams. • Research and develop technical diagrams related to project needs. • Translate datasets into presentation-quality formats. Engagement • Respond to requests for information and provide technical expertise to PRI staff, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, academia, industry, and the public. • Attend, participate in, and contribute to meetings, conferences, and workshops. Outreach and Other • Contribute to the areas of education, outreach, and/or other service to the Survey, PRI, the University of Illinois, and the state of Illinois. • Enhance the reputation of the Survey and PRI at the state, national, and international level. • Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois. • Complete required administrative documentation, compliance-related forms, certifications, and mandatory training programs accurately and within established deadlines. • Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.
