Title: Hydrogeologist

Department MBMG - Research

Job Type: Professional Full-Time

The Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology (MBMG), Montana's state geologic survey, seeks one or more highly motivated hydrogeologists/hydrologists to work in the Ground Water Investigation Program (GWIP). The position is based in Butte, Montana and located on the campus of Montana Technological University. GWIP evaluates local- to regional-scale hydrogeologic systems, with studies that encompass groundwater/surface-water interactions, water availability and storage, and groundwater quantity and quality.

Primary duties will be to collect and analyze hydrogeologic, geochemical, and geologic data to develop interpretations of hydrogeologic frameworks, groundwater and surface-water flow systems, and water quality. These interpretations will be compiled into maps, reports, and groundwater flow models. Tasks include planning and assisting with work plan development, and field activities such as developing groundwater and surface-water monitoring networks; measuring groundwater levels and stream flows; collecting water-quality samples; overseeing monitoring well installation; and assisting with aquifer tests. A successful candidate will be expected to work individually and as part of a team to collect hydrogeologic data, write reports, and develop map products; make presentations at public and scientific meetings; and interact with landowners and answer public inquiries. The work may require travel throughout Montana including overnight stays up to a week.

The successful candidate will join a vibrant group of geoscientists committed to providing high-quality data and interpretations to support the orderly and responsible development of Montana's natural resources. The MBMG is a department of the Montana Technological University, but this is a non-tenurable, non-teaching position. Application reviews will begin on April 14, 2026. Priority will be given to applications received by that date, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

The University is NOT able to support Visa applications for this position. Applicants must already be eligible to work and have the ability to arrive in the United States without the University's support to be considered for this position.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum requirements for hiring levels:

Professional Scientist: Bachelor's Degree in hydrogeology, geology, hydrology, or related field and 3 years relevant experience or Master's degree in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology or related field obtained by May 2026.

Assistant Hydrogeologist/Hydrologist: Master's Degree in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology, or related field and 3 years relevant experience or a Doctorate obtained by May 2026.

College-level course work in fields related to geology, hydrogeology, hydrology, must include a list of relevant courses in your resume.

A valid Montana driver's license (or ability to acquire one).

   Must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time bases.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience with GIS hydrologic applications (such as Arc GIS Pro), surface water analysis (such as Aquarius) and other computational methods such as R, Python, MODFLOW or similar applications.

Applicable field experience in groundwater and/or surface water monitoring (i.e. discharge measurements, and rating curve development.

Experience with developing groundwater budgets.

Familiarity with conducting and analyzing aquifer tests.

Water-well drilling experience, including logging and completing wells.

Experience in synthesizing, interpreting, and managing hydrogeologic, geochemical and/or geophysical data.

A record of publication and/or authored reports, presentations, or other formal communication that demonstrates strong technical writing skills.

Experience interacting with landowners.

Demonstrated ability to self-manage time and effectively complete tasks.

Familiarity with the geology and hydrogeology of Montana.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Ability to work safely alone in isolated areas and walk up to 2 miles carrying equipment.

Ability to lift 50 lbs.

For full consideration application materials must be complete.

Please include:

      Cover letter specifically addressing qualifications for this position

      Resume

      A list of relevant hydrogeology, geology, and hydrology courses in your resume

      Contact information for 3 professional references.

Application Requirements

For full consideration application materials must be complete.

Any offer of employment is contingent upon a satisfactory criminal background check.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Montana Tech is committed to providing a working and learning environment free from discrimination. As such, the University does not discriminate in the admission, access to or conduct of its educational programs and activities nor in its employment policies and practices on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, creed, service in the uniformed services (as defined in state and federal law), veteran status, gender, age, political beliefs, marital or family status, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation or preference. In support of the University's mission to be inclusive and diverse, applications from qualified minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities are highly encouraged. Montana Tech makes accommodation for any known disability that may interfere with an applicant's ability to compete in the hiring process or an employee's ability to perform the duties of the job. In compliance with the Montana Veteran's Employment Preference Act, Montana Tech provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans.

Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at Montana Tech as legally required (e.g., Form I-9). Montana Tech will require proof of authorization to work in the United States before final hiring.

Further, based on the September 19, 2025, Presidential Proclamation and accompanying guidance from the USCIS and Dept. of State, the University may not be able to offer H-1B sponsorship. Particularly the University is not able to pay the $100,000 payment accompanying new H-1B visa petitions.

Veterans Employment Preference

To claim veteran's preference please complete the employment (veteran's) preference form located on the employment page and email to humanresources@mtech.edu. You must include the job title of the position in which you are applying.

Download Employment (Veteran's) Preference Form (PDF)

Request an Accommodation

To request an accommodation for the application or interview, please contact Cathy Isakson at 406-496-4380 or email cisakson@mtech.edu

Why Work at Tech?

Help meet the changing needs of society by providing a transformative student experience by helping develop leaders for tomorrow by advancing science, engineering and technology.

Benefits Package

In addition, Montana Tech offers an attractive benefits package* which includes:

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance with low deductibles and comprehensive coverage.

Generous employer contribution toward monthly health care benefits worth $6.08 per hour.

5.9% retirement employer contribution for eligible employees

11 Holidays per year

3 weeks of Annual Leave to start

Generous sick leave policy that can be used for sick children, doctor and dentist appointments as well as bereavement.

6 credits of coursework free per year (fees not included)

Life and Disability Insurance

Reduced tuition for dependents after 4 months of employment for eligible employees

Employee Assistance and a Wellness Program

Optional Retirement Plan for eligible employees

Possible remote work days with supervisor approval and eligible positions.

*Benefits are dependent on position @type and terms and conditions of eligibility.

About Montana Tech

Montana Technological University, Butte Montana, is nestled in the Heart of the Rocky Mountains along the Continental Divide, where I-15 and I-90 intersect. We are home to the largest National Historic District in the country. Montana Tech is a special focus institution with a reputation for excellence and value. Montana Tech is ranked #1 in the nation by CollegeNET.

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Hydrogeologist