Position Vacancy Announcement, Kansas Geological Survey

Position: Research Associate (00206611)

Salary: Starting $40,000-$48,000 annually + benefits, commensurate with qualifications.

Expected starting date: As early as July 28, 2008, actual date negotiable.

Application Deadline: Review of applications will begin July 14, 2008.

Responsibilities

The Geohydrology Section of the Kansas Geological Survey (KGS) is seeking a research associate with a strong background in data analysis, ground-water 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 ground-water 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 ground-water 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, ground-water 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 ground-water flow systems.
3. Two years hands-on experience with one or more ground-water models.
4. One year experience with computer programming.
5. Excellent communication skills, and experience working as a member of a team.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Experience with MODFLOW and pre- and post-processing software for ground-water models.
2. Experience with stream-aquifer interactions.
3. Experience with Matlab and Fortran, including data analysis/display and code development.
4. Experience with GIS and its application in ground-water modeling.
5. Experience with ground-water contaminant transport models.
6. 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 send 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. Review of applications will begin July 14, 2008.

Placed online Feb. 3, 2008
Comments to webadmin@kgs.ku.edu
The URL for this page is http://www.kgs.ku.edu/General/jobs/K00206611.html