Job Details : General Notes

The Resource Center at the Bureau of Economic Geology (Bureau) houses an extensive archive of geologic information dating back to the 1870s. This collection includes print and digital records of geological and geophysical data such as maps, well logs, engineering and geologic reports, photographs, field notes, and samples. Many of these materials are original works by Bureau researchers and other geoscientists who have contributed their collections over the years. In addition, the Bureau houses an extensive core collection comprising more than 2 million boxes of core and other sample materials from various geographic locations across the United States, as well as a few international locations. The collection is maintained at two core facilities located in Austin and Houston.

This position is in-person at the J.J. Pickle Research Campus in North Austin. Purpose

The Bureau of Economic Geology is seeking a highly motivated and technically skilled Geoscience Data and Collections Engineer/Geoscientist to lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of systems for cataloging and managing the Bureau’s archive collections and physical rock materials (core, cuttings, thin sections and rock samples) and associated well and subsurface data, including paper logs, reports, etc. This role requires a unique combination of geoscience knowledge and data science expertise to support the long-term preservation, accessibility, and usability of one of the largest geologic collections in the world. Responsibilities

Process, organize, and describe physical and digital archival collections, including maps, field notes, photographs, unpublished reports, and a wide range of geological and geophysical data types.

Design and maintain robust digital systems for cataloging and managing geological archive records, samples and associated metadata.

Collaborate with geoscientists, IT staff, and collection managers to ensure data integrity, accessibility, and scalability.

Develop and implement workflows for digitizing, tagging, and integrating archive records, paper logs and other analog records.

Lead efforts to modernize legacy data systems and migrate data to new platforms as needed.

Ensure compliance with data standards and best practices in geoscience informatics.

Provide technical support and training to staff and researchers using the collections database.

Contribute to strategic planning for long-term data stewardship and digital infrastructure.

Provides research support by facilitating access to archival records for scholars, scientists, and the public , supporting research initiatives, and public engagement with institutional resources.

Supports Bureau researchers and donors in the submission and integration of new archival records, ensuring accurate documentation and incorporation into the existing archive.

Collaborates with the Resource Center Manager, Resource Center System Specialist, and researchers to enhance the Bureau’s archival database.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Geoscience, Earth Sciences or equivalent with four years of experience and a Master’s degree in Geosciences, Geoinformatics, or Data Science with two years of experience

Strong understanding of geological sample types and well data (e.g., cores, cuttings, thin sections, and well-logs).

Experience with database design, data modeling, and data management systems.

Proficiency in programming or scripting languages (e.g., Python, SQL) for data handling and automation.

Familiarity with GIS, metadata standards, and digital archiving best practices.

Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Ability to interact with others in a respectful, patient, and friendly manner when working with staff and visitors.

Occasional travel for work

The applicant for the job should have a valid Texas driver’s license and a good driving record and should take the UT-mandated online driver training modules to remain authorized to drive Bureau vehicles.

Preferred Qualifications

Library science training and/or archive experience

Experience working with geological collections or in a research repository environment.

Knowledge of cloud-based data storage and management solutions.

Experience with data visualization tools and dashboards.

Familiarity with academic or government research environments

Salary Range

$60,000+ depending on qualifications Working Conditions

May work around standard office conditions

Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation

Use of manual dexterity

Climbing of stairs

Climbing of ladders

Lifting and moving

Occasional weekend, overtime, and evening work to meet deadline

Required Materials

Resume/CV

3 work references with their contact information

Letter of interest

---- Employment Eligibility: Regular staff who have been employed in their current position for the last six continuous months are eligible for openings being recruited for through University-Wide or Open Recruiting, to include both promotional opportunities and lateral transfers. Staff who are promotion/transfer eligible may apply for positions without supervisor approval. ---- Retirement Plan Eligibility: The retirement plan for this position is Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length. ---- Background Checks: A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position. ----