| Director and State Geologist, AZGS |
| Posting Number |
req24848 |
| Department |
Arizona Geological Survey |
| Department Website Link |
Arizona Geological Survey |
| Location |
Main Campus |
| Address |
Tucson, AZ USA |
| Position Highlights |
We invite a new Director and State Geologist to join the Arizona Geological Survey (AZGS) to lead vital research and service for the State of Arizona. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to help shape policy, manage a dedicated team of professionals, and advance the understanding of Arizona's rich geological resources and natural hazards. The AZGS is a non-academic/non-regulatory research department established by state statute and is housed within the College of Science at the University of Arizona. It is tasked with furthering understanding of the geology, the mineral and energy resources, and the natural hazards of Arizona. The successful candidate will participate in and oversee the work of AZGS staff and its programs, reporting directly to the Dean of the College of Science. This role requires a blend of leadership, scientific expertise, and strategic vision. All AZGS research scientists, including the Director, participate in scientific investigations, develop and write proposals, and conduct office-based data compilations that lead to the production of high-quality geologic maps, datasets, reports, scientific papers, and presentations. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States. Relocation expenses are not provided. Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more! The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.
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| Duties & Responsibilities |
Duties and Responsibilities: As Director and State Geologist, the primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Developing, implementing,
maintaining, and executing operational plans and programs that address complex scientific issues, as well as managing AZGS personnel matters. - Leading and participating in
research projects that advance the understanding of Arizona's geological resources and hazards. - Representing AZGS and serving as
a liaison with state, federal, tribal, and industry professionals, responding to inquiries, and fostering collaborative relationships. - Working with administrative staff
to prepare and submit the departmental budget, including forecasting revenues, to the Dean of the College of Science and Central Administration.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
- Knowledge
of the geology of the western United States and Arizona in particular. - Possess
a broad range of geologic knowledge and interests. - Skilled in public speaking and
presenting information to a variety of groups. - Knowledge of grant writing and securing external funding.
This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve. |
| Minimum Qualifications |
- As per
Arizona statute, the State Geologist shall be a graduate of an accredited institution and either be registered as a geologist by the State Board of Technical Registration or a trained geologist, defined as someone who has both a geology degree from an accredited educational institution and has participated in geological work experience outside of an educational institution for at least four years. - A
Master's degree in Geoscience or similar field is required, plus minimum of 7 years of related work experience, including 5 years of managerial experience. - Must have a valid driver's license and ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.
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| Preferred Qualifications |
- Experience in a senior role at a geological survey and familiarity with the Association of American State Geologists (AASG).
- Experience conducting independent geologic research, investigations, and/or mapping in the western U.S.
- Formal experience developing and managing complex projects.
- Proven experience with grant writing and securing external funding.
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| FLSA |
Exempt |
| Full Time/Part Time |
Full Time |
| Number of Hours Worked per Week |
40 |
| Job FTE |
1.0 |
| Work Calendar |
Fiscal |
| Job Category |
Research |
| Benefits Eligible |
Yes - Full Benefits |
| Rate of Pay |
$99,901-$129,871 |
| Compensation Type |
salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE) |
| Grade |
12 |
| Compensation Guidance |
The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity. The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator. |
| Career Stream and Level |
M4 |
| Job Family |
Researchers & Scientists |
| Job Function |
Research |
| Type of criminal background check required: |
Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive) |
| Number of Vacancies |
1 |
| Target Hire Date |
7/1/2026 |
| Expected End Date |
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| Contact Information for Candidates |
For additional information, please contact Randi Bellassai, via email at rbellassai@arizona.edu. |
| Open Date |
1/7/2026 |
| Open Until Filled |
Yes |
| Documents Needed to Apply |
Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover Letter |
| Special Instructions to Applicant |
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| Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report |
In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University's campuses.Thesereports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures. Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu. |
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