Salary: $66,250.00 - $100,636.00 Annually
Location : Dauphin County, PA
Job Type: Civil Service Permanent Full-Time
Job Number: CS-2024-96011-14932
Department: Department of Conservation & Natural Resources
Division: CN Geolgc and Geogrphc Srvs Di
Opening Date: 10/18/2024
Closing Date: 10/31/2024 11:59 PM Eastern
Job Code: 14932
Position Number: 00005079
Union: AFSCME
Bargaining Unit: B4
Pay Group: ST08
Bureau / Division Code: 00382230
Bureau / Division: CN Geolgc and Geogrphc Srvs Di
Worksite Address: 3240 Schoolhouse Road
City: Middletown, Pennsylvania
Zip Code: 17057
Contact Name: OA, CE Section Intake Division
Contact Email: Ra-OACEINTAKESEC@pa.gov
THE POSITION The Department of Conservation & Natural Resources is on the lookout for a Senior Geoscientist to join their team in Dauphin County. This role involves utilizing geographic information systems (GIS) along with various software tools to explore and analyze the geological and geospatial characteristics of Pennsylvania. If you are interested in making a significant impact in this field, do not hesitate to apply today!
DESCRIPTION OF WORKAs a member of the GIS Section in the Geologic & Geographic Information Services Division of the Bureau of Geological Survey, you will operate with a high degree of autonomy, either independently or collaboratively on various assigned projects. Your responsibilities encompass a range of activities, including the preparation of geologic maps, cross sections, and derivative maps. Utilizing GIS applications and geospatial data, you will design and create maps, charts, graphics, and data layers to meet the requirements of USGS grants and other bureau objectives. Your work is conducted independently, with peer and supervisory reviews ensuring the effectiveness of the outcomes. You will also develop digital cartographic products and custom scripts using Python and SQL to enhance workflow efficiency, while testing functionalities and utilizing ArcPro tools effectively.
In addition to your mapping duties, you will provide training to staff geoscientists on GIS and data-related applications, offering technical guidance and support in the use of geospatial data and analysis tools. You will assist in developing workflows and procedures that enhance operational efficiency. Furthermore, You are responsible for establishing and implementing geospatial data standards concerning content, format, design, maintenance, and quality assurance. You will actively investigate and evaluate new data sources, software, equipment, and techniques to improve the processes of geospatial data collection, analysis, modeling, and visualization.
You will also play a crucial role in facilitating the submission of federally funded projects by standardizing deliverables according to the U.S. Geological Survey's Geologic Map Schema (GeMS). Your responsibilities include responding promptly and professionally to inquiries about the Commonwealth's geological and geospatial resources, whether these come from legislative bodies, external agencies, municipalities, or private citizens. Additionally, you will present project results to both scientific and general audiences through various formats, including papers at professional meetings, group talks, field trips, and written materials in published reports, papers, magazines, and guidebooks. You will strive to leverage opportunities within the constraints of time and budget to maximize the impact of your work.
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 4:30 PM, Monday - Friday, with 60-minute lunch.
- Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time. 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 Middletown.
- Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
- You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONSMinimum Experience and Training Requirements:- One year as a Geoscientist (commonwealth title); or
- Possession of an active license as a professional geologist issued by the Pennsylvania State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists; or
- Two years of professional geology experience, and a bachelor's degree in geology, hydrogeology, geosciences, geophysics, geochemistry, engineering geology, or a closely related field that includes 30 college credits in geology, geophysics, geochemistry, engineering geology, or a closely related field; or
- An equivalent combination of experience and training.
Special Requirement:- This Position requires possession of a valid PA 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.
- You must be able to perform essential job functions.
Legal Requirements: - You must pass a background investigation.
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 submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
- Failure to comply with the above application requirements will eliminate you from consideration for this position.
Veterans: - Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx and click the Veterans' Preference tab or contact us at ra-cs-vetpreference@pa.gov.
Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS): - 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).
If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.
The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.
EXAMINATION INFORMATION - Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
- Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
- Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
- You must provide complete and accurate information or:
- your score may be lower than deserved.
- you may be disqualified.
You may only apply/test
once for this posting.Your results will be provided via email.
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Health & WellnessWe offer multiple health plans so our employees can choose what works best for themselves and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package includes health coverage, vision, dental, and wellness programs.*
Compensation & Financial PlanningWe invest in our employees by providing competitive wages and encouraging financial wellness by offering multiple ways to save money and ensure peace of mind including multiple retirement and investment plan options.
Work/Life BalanceWe know there's more to life than just work! Our generous paid leave benefits include paid vacation, paid sick leave, eight weeks of paid parental leave, military leave, and paid time off for most major U.S. holidays, as well as flexible work schedules and work-from-home opportunities.*
Values and CultureWe believe in the work we do and provide continual opportunities for our employees to grow and contribute to the greater good. As one of the largest employers in the state, we provide opportunities for internal mobility, professional development, and the opportunity to give back by participating in workplace charitable giving.
Employee PerksSometimes, it is the little "extras" that make a big difference. Our employees receive special employee-only discounts and rates on a variety of services and memberships.
For more information on all of these Total Rewards benefits, please visit and click on the benefits box.
*Eligibility rules apply.
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Do you possess a current driver's license which is not under suspension?
02
If you answered "Yes" to the above question, please provide your license number and the expiration date. If you do not have a valid driver's license, please type N/A in the text box below.
03
Have you been employed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a Geoscientist for one or more years full-time?
04
If you are claiming experience in the above question, please list the employer(s) where you gained this experience in the text box below. The employer(s) and a description of the experience must also be included in the appropriate sections of your application if you would like the experience to be considered in the eligibility decision. If you claimed you do not have experience, type N/A in the text box below.
05
Do you possess a valid license as a professional geologist issued by the Pennsylvania State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists?
06
If yes, provide your license number and expiration date in the box below. If no, type N/A.
07
How many years of full-time professional geology experience do you possess?
- 2 or more years
- 1 but less than 2 years
- Less than year
- None
08
If you are claiming experience in the above question, please list the employer(s) where you gained this experience in the text box below. The employer(s) and a description of the experience must also be included in the appropriate sections of your application if you would like the experience to be considered in the eligibility decision. If you claimed you do not have experience, type N/A in the text box below.
09
How much graduate-level geologic coursework have you completed?
If you are claiming credits/degree, you must upload a copy of your college transcript(s) for this education to be considered in the eligibility decision. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. You must attach your transcript(s) prior to the submission of your application by using the "Attachments" tab on the left. You will not be able to add transcript(s) to the application after it has been submitted.
If you answer this question based on education acquired outside of the United States, you must upload a copy of your foreign credential evaluation report. We can only accept foreign credential evaluations from organizations that are members of the National Association of Credential Services (NACES). A list of current NACES members can be found by visiting and clicking the Evaluation Services link. For more information on foreign education credentials, please visit and click on Other Information.
- A. 30 or more credits
- B. Less than 30 credits
- C. None
10
You must complete the supplemental questions below. These supplemental questions are the exam and will be scored. They are designed to give you the opportunity to relate your experience and training background to the major activities (Work Behaviors) performed in this position. Failure to provide complete and accurate information may delay the processing of your application or result in a lower-than-deserved score or disqualification. You
must complete the application
and answer the supplemental questions. Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will
not be reviewed for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position or to determine your score.
All information you provide on your application and supplemental questions is subject to verification. Any misrepresentation, falsification or omission of material facts is subject to penalty. If requested, you must provide documentation, including names, addresses, and telephone numbers of individuals who can verify the validity of the information you provide in the application and supplemental questions.
Read each question carefully. Determine and select which "Level of Performance" most closely represents your highest level of experience/training. List the employer(s)/training source(s) from your Work or Education sections of the application where you gained this experience/training.
The "Level of Performance" you choose must be clearly supported within the description of the experience and training information entered in your application or your score may be lowered. In order to receive credit for experience, you must have worked in a job for at least six months in which the experience claimed was a major function.
If you have read and understand these instructions, please click on the "Yes" button and proceed to the exam questions.If you have general questions regarding the application and hiring process, please refer to our
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WORK BEHAVIOR 1 - COLLECTION AND COMPILATION OF GEOLOGIC DATASystematically collects a variety of office, field, surface and subsurface geologic data and information in support of geologic investigations and related activities. This includes locating, describing, identifying, and collecting mineral or rock samples and core or drill cuttings; collecting structural, geophysical, geochemical, hydrogeologic and geologic data; and collecting data necessary to the interpretation of sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous rocks. Geographic information systems (GIS), databases, and/or other methods are typically used to compile, organize, and query collections and other geologic data.
Levels of PerformanceSelect the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
- A. I have professional experience related to this work behavior as a project leader/supervisor which included developing a sampling plan, defining data needs, etc.; OR I have advised or instructed others in the above activities.
- B. I have professional experience related to this work behavior performing these activities individually or as part of a team using proper sampling techniques, collecting outcrop data, etc., under the guidance of a project leader/supervisor.
- C. I have experience related to this work behavior performing these activities as a trainee or under direct supervision.
- D. I have successfully completed graduate studies or research related to this work behavior.
- E. I have no experience or training related to this work behavior.
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In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, type N/A in the box below.
- The name(s) of the employer/institution(s) where you gained this experience.
- The type, location, method, etc., of data collection you performed.
- The purpose of the data collection.
- The actual duties you performed.
- Your level of responsibility.
13
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the three items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, type N/A in the text box below.
- The College/University
- The Course Title
- The Credits/Clock Hours You Earned
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WORK BEHAVIOR 2 - INTERPRETATION OF GEOLOGIC DATAInterprets surface and subsurface geologic, geochemical, geophysical, seismic and hydrogeologic data, and a variety of data from other sources such as laboratory tests of geologic samples, topographic and geologic maps, aerial photographs, reports of investigations, studies, permit applications, and similar sources. The results of these assessments are used to formulate and/or support various geologic activities such as establishing data inventories; conducting detailed geologic investigations of bedrock, surficial deposits, mineral deposits, groundwater, and/or landforms; and defining hazardous geologic conditions. Interpretations and assessments often require the analytical tools of geographic information systems (GIS).
Levels of PerformanceSelect the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
- A. I have professional experience related to this work behavior as a project leader/supervisor which included the interpretation of geologic data from a variety of sources; OR I have instructed others in the above activities. Other Geologists seek my advice or assistance in interpreting geologic data.
- B. I have professional experience related to this work behavior performing these activities individually or as part of a team under the guidance of a project leader/supervisor.
- C. I have experience related to this work behavior performing these activities as a trainee or under direct supervision.
- D. I have successfully completed graduate studies or research related to this work behavior.
- E. I have no experience or training related to this work behavior.
15
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, type N/A in the box below.
- The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
- Detailed information concerning the interpretation, assessment, and documentation you performed or produced.
- The purpose of your interpretation/report.
- Your level of responsibility.
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If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the three items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, type N/A in the text box below.
- The College/University
- The Course Title
- The Credits/Clock Hours You Earned
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WORK BEHAVIOR 3 - DEVELOPMENT OF GEOLOGIC AND GRAPHIC MATERIALSConceptualizes and then creates a variety of geologic maps, stratigraphic and structural cross-sections, data tables, charts, or other geologic exhibits (along with explanatory legends) which are used to support and explain the content and conclusions of reports of investigations or studies. This involves interpreting topographic maps, aerial photographs, geophysical logs, and other remote-sensing data, laboratory analyses, mine maps, drilling records, soil surveys, and/or other sources of geologic information. These work products are typically compiled as digital copy using geographic information systems (GIS), databases, graphics software, and other specialized software.
Levels of PerformanceSelect the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
- A. I have professional experience related to this work behavior as a project leader/supervisor which included defining elements to be included on a map, section locations, etc.; OR I have advised or instructed others in the above activities.
- B. I have professional experience related to this work behavior performing these activities individually or as part of a team which included constructing geologic maps, sections, and other illustrations under the guidance of a project leader/supervisor.
- C. I have experience related to this work behavior performing these activities as a trainee or under direct supervision.
- D. I have successfully completed graduate studies or research related to this work behavior.
- E. I have no experience or training related to this work behavior.
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In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, type N/A in the box below.
- The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
- Detailed information concerning the documents, exhibits, or other products you developed and the relationship to the content or conclusions of investigations, studies, etc.
- The actual duties you performed.
- Your level of responsibility.
19
If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the three items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, type N/A in the text box below.
- The College/University
- The Course Title
- The Credits/Clock Hours You Earned
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WORK BEHAVIOR 4 - PREPARATION OF WRITTEN GEOLOGIC MATERIALSCompiles, organizes, and creates written materials related to geologic activities. These materials may document existing geologic conditions, hazards, or problems; serve as a scientific reference or data source for articles published in professional journals, etc.; support, advise actions or make recommendations related to geologic activities; or serve as notification for other jurisdictions, industry, or individuals concerning the status, progress, or results of geologic investigations, studies or projects.
Levels of PerformanceSelect the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
- A. I have professional experience related to this work behavior which included authoring or co-authoring written geological publications. This includes accountability for the underlying concepts, organizational presentation of facts and technical accuracy for the final materials. Examples: articles for reference, professional journals; peer-reviewed reports of studies, investigations, or projects.
- B. I have professional experience related to this work behavior which included assisting the principal authors in conducting research and/or documenting information to support technical reports; OR I have had responsibility for an aspect of the work behavior, e.g., writing and preparing a chapter of a publication, or preparing client reports, trade journals, in-house and popular publications.
- C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework related to preparing technical written materials.
- D. I have no experience or training related to this work behavior.
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In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, type N/A in the box below.
- The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
- Detailed information concerning the development or purpose of the materials you prepared.
- The nature of the subject (geologic or otherwise).
- The type of audience you prepared the materials for.
- Your level of responsibility.
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If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the three items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, type N/A in the text box below.
- The College/University
- The Course Title
- The Credits/Clock Hours You Earned
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WORK BEHAVIOR 5 - DEVELOPMENT OF ORAL PRESENTATIONSDevelops and conducts oral presentations related to geologic activities to a wide spectrum of individuals (co-workers, supervisors, peers, students, educators, industry, public officials, the public, etc.) in public and professional settings. Presents conditions, conclusions, and/or recommendations obtained from geologic studies, investigations, or similar projects.
Levels of PerformanceSelect the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
- A. I have professional experience related to this work behavior which included developing and conducting oral presentations on geologic activities for technical or administrative supervisors, co-workers, students, educators, public officials, etc.
- B. I have professional experience related to this work behavior which included conducting oral presentations developed by others; OR I have professional experience conducting research and/or documenting information to support geologic presentations conducted by others.
- C. I have experience in conducting oral presentations on topics other than geologic activities.
- D. I have successfully completed college-level coursework related to this work behavior.
- E. I have no experience or training related to this work behavior.
24
In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, type N/A in the box below.
- The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
- Detailed information concerning the oral presentations you developed/conducted.
- The type of audience you presented to.
- The nature of the subject (geologic or otherwise).
- The purpose of the presentation.
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If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the three items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, type N/A in the text box below.
- The College/University
- The Course Title
- The Credits/Clock Hours You Earned
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WORK BEHAVIOR 6 - PLANS/COORDINATES GEOLOGIC STUDIES, INVESTIGATIONS, AND PROJECTSPlans and coordinates the execution of geologic projects such as surficial, subsurface, hydrogeologic, geophysical, structural, geochemical, or geologic hazard investigations; landscape interpretation; field mapping; mineral, or other economic resource assessments.
Levels of PerformanceSelect the "Level of Performance" which best describes your claim.
- A. I have professional experience related to this work behavior which included serving as a project designer; OR I have advised or instructed others in the above activities.
- B. I have professional experience related to this work behavior as a member of a team conducting geologic investigations/studies; OR I have performed the activities of this work behavior under the guidance of others more experienced than I am.
- C. I have experience related to this work behavior performing these activities as a trainee or under direct supervision.
- D. I have successfully completed graduate studies or research related to this work behavior.
- E. I have no experience or training related to this work behavior.
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In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, type N/A in the box below.
- The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.
- Detailed information concerning the geologic studies, investigations, or projects you planned and/or coordinated.
- The purpose of the study/investigation.
- Your level of responsibility.
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If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the three items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, type N/A in the text box below.
- The College/University
- The Course Title
- The Credits/Clock Hours You Earned
Required Question