Position Vacancy Announcement, Kansas Geological Survey

Position: Research Associate (00206611)

Salary: Starting $40,000-$45,000 annually + benefits, commensurate with qualifications.

Expected starting date: As early as May 1, 2008; actual date negotiable.

Application Deadline: First consideration given to application materials received by March 31, 2008.

Responsibilities

The Geohydrology Section of the Kansas Geological Survey (KGS) is seeking a research associate with a strong background in data analysis, groundwater modeling, and computer programming. This position is initially for up to 3 years, with longer-term employment possible subject to job performance and the availability of funds.

• (70%) A variety of groundwater modeling projects that focus on water resources in western Kansas.
• (30%) Software development for new aquifer characterization techniques.

In particular, the individual will 1) construct and calibrate numerical groundwater models for various aquifers in western Kansas, incorporating stream-aquifer interaction where applicable, to further characterize the hydrologic system and water availability; 2) apply numerical flow and transport simulations to investigate the contamination threats posed by poorly-sealed wells on Kansas water resources; 3) develop computer programs that simulate the flow system induced by the direct-push aquifer tests and employ techniques for the rapid, simultaneous analysis of these tests for better hydraulic characterization of aquifers.

Specific duties include, but are not limited to, groundwater model construction, calibration, sensitivity analysis, and parameter estimation; and software development for new direct-push characterization techniques.

Required Qualifications

Evaluation of the following requirements will be made through (1) work experience and records of accomplishment in CV, (2) descriptions of research and educational experiences in letter of application, and (3) references.

1. Advanced degree in the geosciences.
2. Experience with regional groundwater flow systems and stream-aquifer interactions.
3. Two years hands-on experience with one or more groundwater models including MODFLOW.
4. Experience with pre- and post-processing software for groundwater models.
5. One year experience with computer programming.
6. Excellent communication skills, and the ability to work as a member of a team.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Experience with Matlab and Fortran, including data analysis/display and code development.
2. Experience with GIS and its application in groundwater modeling.
3. Experience with groundwater contaminant transport models.
4. Experience with geostatistical analysis methods.

Application Procedure

Applications are to be submitted online at http://jobs.ku.edu/, search by position number 00206611. You can also use the QuickLink. Complete online Unclassified Professional application, provide contact information for three professional references, attach cover letter and CV, and attach or mail unofficial transcripts to address listed below.

Person to Contact

Annette Delaney, Kansas Geological Survey
Phone: (785) 864-2152
Fax: (785) 864-5317
Email: hr@kgs.ku.edu

For further technical information, contact Gaisheng Liu at gliu@kgs.ku.edu. Additional information about the type of work done in the Geohydrology Section can be found at http://www.kgs.ku.edu/Hydro/hydroProj.html. First consideration given to complete applications received by the review date.

Placed online Feb. 3, 2008
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