Launch Your Career as a Geologist with the U.S. Geological Survey

Are you ready to apply your geological expertise to some of the most critical coastal and marine research in the United States? The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is currently inviting applications for a Geologist position based at the renowned Woods Hole Coastal & Marine Science Center in Massachusetts. This role offers a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between complex geophysical data and actionable environmental science.

Job Responsibilities

As a Geologist, your primary function will be to investigate marine environments through the collection and analysis of seismic-reflection data. Your daily duties will include:

Executing marine geological and geophysical data collection using advanced mapping technologies.
Processing and interpreting data sets using software such as Kingdom Suite, Reveal, and GIS.
Developing authoritative technical reports and publications for the scientific community.
Contributing to the planning and execution of routine and moderately complex geologic work.
Participating in field campaigns that may involve remote locations and diverse environmental conditions.

Salary and Grade Overview

This position is structured as a career ladder within the GS system, offering potential for advancement.

Grade Level	Starting Salary	Maximum Salary
GS-09	$69,905	$90,882
GS-11	$84,579	$109,959

Note: First-time federal hires typically start at Step 1.

Qualifications and Requirements

Candidates must meet specific educational and specialized experience benchmarks. You will need a degree in geology or a combination of education and experience that includes 20 semester hours in related physical or engineering sciences.

For the GS-09 level, one year of experience equivalent to GS-07 is required, focusing on data compilation and geological analysis. For the GS-11 level, applicants must demonstrate a year of experience equivalent to GS-09, showing an ability to independently manage projects and complex geological tasks.

Benefits

The federal government offers a robust compensation package designed to support both your professional and personal life. Benefits include:

Health insurance, including dental and vision coverage.
Retirement benefits via the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
Generous leave accrual, including annual, sick, and federal holidays.

Application Tips

Federal applications are highly specific. To increase your chances of selection:

Format Matters: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer and adheres to the font and margin constraints specified in the announcement.
Quantify Your Experience: Clearly state the number of hours worked per week for every position listed.
Include Transcripts: Do not forget to attach both undergraduate and graduate transcripts to verify your educational eligibility.
Answer Thoroughly: Spend time crafting your responses to the online questionnaire; these are crucial for your initial ranking.

This role is a gateway to high-impact scientific service. If you possess the analytical skills and the passion for marine geophysics required to support the USGS mission, we encourage you to submit your application before the closing date of November 6, 2026. Join a community that values rigorous science and the protection of our natural world.

Why This Geologist Job Matters

Embark on a career of scientific discovery with the USGS, where you will analyze marine geological data and shape our understanding of coastal environments.

Geologist Job Overview

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is seeking a dedicated Geologist to join the Woods Hole Coastal & Marine Science Center in Massachusetts. This role is central to our mission of monitoring, analyzing, and predicting Earth-system interactions. You will be responsible for collecting and interpreting critical marine geological data, contributing to high-level research, and preparing technical reports that inform decision-makers on coastal and environmental challenges. This is an excellent opportunity for a professional passionate about marine sciences to grow within a collaborative federal environment.

Requirements for Geologist

Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Must hold a valid driver's license.
Ability to obtain and maintain a government travel charge card.
Must pass a physical examination.
Must complete a one-year probationary period.
Selective Service registration for males born after 12-31-59.
Successful completion of E-Verify employment verification.
Background investigation and favorable adjudication required.

Preferred Qualifications for Geologist

Proficiency in marine 2D seismic-reflection surveys.
Experience processing and interpreting geophysical datasets.
Technical skill in software such as Kingdom Suite, Reveal, and GIS.
Ability to independently manage project workflows and scientific deliverables.
Experience integrating bathymetric and oceanographic datasets.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP).
✓Paid vacation and sick leave.
✓Telework opportunities (with supervisor approval).
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.

💡 How to Apply Geologist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Geologist Job

Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Prepare a federal-style resume (max 2 pages, 10-point font minimum).
Gather all required academic transcripts.
Apply via the online portal and complete the required questionnaire.
Submit all documentation by the closing date of November 6, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly states 'full-time' or 'part-time' with the number of hours worked per week.
Attach all required transcripts; missing documents will result in an incomplete application.
Use the online preview tool for the questionnaire to prepare your answers in advance.
Verify that your resume font and margin sizes meet the specified requirements to avoid disqualification.
Remove all photographs from your documents before uploading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range for this position?

The position ranges from GS-09 ($69,905 - $90,882) to GS-11 ($84,579 - $109,959) depending on qualifications.

Is travel required for this role?

Yes, the position involves field work and may require overnight travel, potentially 1-2 nights per month.

Can I work remotely?

This position is eligible for telework, subject to supervisor approval.

Job from Geological Survey

The Department of the Interior (DOI) and the USGS are dedicated to the stewardship of our nation's natural resources. The USGS, specifically, serves as the primary scientific agency providing data on ecosystems, environmental health, and natural hazards. By working at the Woods Hole Coastal & Marine Science Center, you become part of a team that monitors the changing face of our coastlines and ocean floors, providing data that guides policy and protects communities.