Embark on a Career as a Geologist at Big Bend National Park
Are you looking to merge your passion for the earth sciences with a commitment to public service? The National Park Service (NPS) is currently seeking a talented Geologist to serve at the iconic Big Bend National Park in Texas. This position offers a rare opportunity to apply professional geological expertise in a dynamic, high-stakes environment dedicated to conservation and public education.
Job Responsibilities
As a Geologist, your daily work will be varied and impactful. You will not only engage in theoretical research but also practical, hands-on applications. Key responsibilities include:
- Geologic Monitoring: Planning and leading comprehensive studies to track changes in the landscape.
- Data Synthesis: Utilizing LiDAR and geophysical datasets to map sensitive resources.
- Infrastructure Support: Evaluating geohazards like rockfalls to protect park visitors and infrastructure.
- Reporting: Communicating findings through formal publications and recommendations to park management.
Requirements
To be eligible for this role, candidates must meet specific criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen or National |
| Education | Degree in Geology + 20 hours in related sciences or equivalent experience |
| Experience | 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-09 |
| Physical | Ability to hike uneven terrain with 20kg of equipment |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $74,678 to $97,087 per year, commensurate with federal GS-11 pay scales.
Benefits
Employees of the National Park Service enjoy comprehensive benefits, including:
- Health and life insurance plans.
- Federal pension and retirement savings (Thrift Savings Plan).
- Paid leave and federal holidays.
- Training and development opportunities.
Application Tips
- Follow Formatting Rules: Your resume must be under 2 pages. Deviating from this may result in automatic disqualification.
- Evidence is Key: Use your resume to provide clear examples of your experience with LiDAR, geohazards, or paleontological mapping.
- Use the Resume Builder: This tool helps ensure all mandatory data points are captured in the correct format.
Serving as a Geologist at Big Bend National Park is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the earth and the legacy of our National Parks. If you meet the qualifications and are ready for the challenge, submit your application through the official USAJOBS portal before the October 30, 2026 deadline.
Why This Geologist Job Matters
Uncover the secrets of the Earth in the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert—join the National Park Service as a Geologist at Big Bend.
Geologist Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking a dedicated Geologist to join the team at Big Bend National Park. In this role, you will lead critical geologic monitoring projects, manage complex environmental data, and provide expert analysis to protect the park's unique natural resources. You will be responsible for field studies, infrastructure compliance, and communicating vital scientific findings to park management.
Requirements for Geologist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
- Completion of a background investigation and favorable adjudication is required.
- Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for the Selective Service.
- Must obtain and maintain a government travel and purchase card.
- Ability to work in remote field sites, including potential travel by helicopter, boat, or small aircraft.
- Must meet basic educational requirements in geology or a related combination of coursework and experience.
Preferred Qualifications for Geologist
- Direct experience in geological mapping and field inventory of paleontological resources.
- Proficiency in evaluating and interpreting large geophysical and LiDAR datasets.
- Demonstrated history of project management regarding major infrastructure compliance and monitoring.
- Strong communication skills for publishing findings and providing management recommendations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health and life insurance options.
- ✓Retirement planning through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Uniform allowance provided.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
- ✓Access to a variety of professional development and federal career advancement opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Geologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Geologist Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJOBS carefully.
- Prepare a resume that is exactly 2 pages or less, using a 10-point minimum font and 0.5-inch margins.
- Gather your official or unofficial academic transcripts.
- Collect necessary SF-50 forms if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Log into your USAJOBS account to complete the online questionnaire.
- Submit your application and all supporting documentation before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly states hours worked per week to verify specialized experience.
- Focus your resume on the specific competencies requested: Geology, Data Organization, Partnering, and Project Management.
- Do not include personal photos or create an Adobe portfolio document.
- Double-check that all uploaded files are legible and correctly labeled.
- Apply well before the deadline to avoid potential technical issues on the final day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the educational requirement for this position?
You must possess a degree in geology plus 20 additional semester hours in related sciences such as physics, chemistry, or engineering, or a qualifying combination of education and experience.
Is travel involved in this role?
Yes, the role includes field work that may involve remote locations, hiking over uneven terrain, and occasional overnight travel.
Are there limits on the resume length?
Yes, your resume must be limited to 2 single-sided pages. Exceeding this limit or using smaller margins may disqualify your application.
Job from National Park Service
The Department of the Interior and the National Park Service are tasked with the stewardship of our nation's most precious natural and cultural treasures. By joining the team at Big Bend, you become a guardian of a landscape shaped by millions of years of geological history, ensuring it remains preserved for the enjoyment of future generations.