Senior Laboratory Technician - MN Geological Survey

Apply for Job Job ID372645 LocationTwin Cities Job FamilyLR-Technical Full/Part TimeFull-Time Regular/TemporaryRegular Job Code4945 Employee ClassAFSCME Unit 7 - Technical Add to Favorite Jobs Email this Job About the Job Temporary Field Assistant and Technician THIS IS A TEMPORARY 15-18 MONTH POSITION Salary: $23.30/hourly Senior Laboratory Technician Work schedule/hours: M-F 8:00AM - 4:30 PM (exclusive of field work) Position is represented by AFSCME Technical Bargaining Unit. Overview: The MGS is seeking a highly motivated individual to bring their unique experience and perspective to our community. This entry level position focuses on aiding in the production of our geologic maps by assisting geologists with the collection and processing of geologic information in laboratory, field, and office settings. This position is temporary, beginning late May/early June 2026, and ending in approximately 15 months. Work for this position will be performed both independently and under direct supervision of a geologist. Daily work schedules can vary greatly depending on the time of year, which can be broadly divided into the field season (June-January) and off season (January-June). During the field season it is common to be completing any of the field-based tasks below during day and overnight trips. During the field season it is also typical to spend 2 weeks out of the month doing overnight work outside of the Twin Cities area. Please note, this is an entry level position and on-the-job training will be provided for all duties listed below. MGS works with the University of Minnesota's Disability Resource Center to improve access for all employees. Previous experience with all listed field or office duties is not required. The duties of the field technician may include but are not limited to the below list. Field-based tasks ~50% of time (Fieldwork is project-dependent, and demand varies by season. Fieldwork is typically done in teams of two to ensure safety. Field safety training is provided): o Operate Giddings soil probe to collect subsurface samples o Drive a variety of vehicles, from small sedans to 4wd pickup trucks, commonly for long distances for 5+ hours o Collect passive seismic data o Assist geologist with processing core samples at rotary-sonic drilling sites o Transport core samples to and from storage facilities o Navigate using a compass and or GPS unit o Hike and potentially camp for bedrock geology fieldwork o Paddle, steer, and occasionally portage a canoe Office and Laboratory-based tasks: ~50% of time o Discern rock composition using a binocular microscope (grain counts) o Assist geologist with logging and archiving core samples o Analyze well cuttings o Enter data into existing databases, sometimes utilizing Geographic Information Systems o Assist geologists in responding to public inquiries regarding rock and mineral identification o Occasionally process sediment samples in texture lab, depending on staff availability The Minnesota Geological Survey retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position. Qualifications Minimum/Essential Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent. Willingness to learn new geological field and lab skills. Valid driver's license & ability (or willingness to learn) to drive a variety of vehicles including pick-up trucks. Work travel flexibility (Position requires repeated Monday - Friday overnight travel throughout Minnesota). Willingness to learn operation of a Giddings soil probe. Preferred Qualifications: Associate or Bachelor's Degree with some science courses such as geology, soil science, hydrogeology, physical geography, natural resources, environmental science, or related fields. Two years of work experience in relevant positions may be substituted. Interest in building a solid foundation of applied geologic skills for furtherment of career. Interest in working outdoors in addition to the office setting. Experience &/or comfort ith driving for extended periods of time (5+ hrs). Experience with a handheld GPS or other navigational tools such as a compass and topographic maps. Familiarity with data entry. Effective written and verbal communication skills. About the Department The Minnesota Geological Survey is a research and service arm of the Newton Horace Winchell School of Earth Sciences at the University of Minnesota. It investigates the geology of Minnesota and provides basic public information on the geology of the state. The Survey works with state, county, and regional offices to set up geologic data bases and provide technical guidance for water resource planning, land management and mineral exploration policy, energy system development, and other planning and resource management activities. We are an off-campus location on Territorial Road., St. Paul (near Hwy 280 and University Ave.) Pay and Benefits Fixed Pay Rate: $23.30 per hour Time Appointment: 75%-100% Appointment Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility. The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes: The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes: Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts University HSA contributions Disability and employer-paid life insurance Employee wellbeing program Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity Financial counseling services Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost How To Apply Applications due by March 31, 2026 Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a resume. Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your

Created: 2026-03-16