Individual Placement- Assistant Geologist at Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands

Position Summary 

The project places participants with the Student Conservation Association in a developmental geologist role supporting conservation, community service, and professional growth while meeting the needs of the U.S. Forest Service. Participants will assist with two FAST‑41 uranium mine projects undergoing environmental impact analysis under NEPA, as well as exploration drilling efforts tied to the Department of the Interior’s 2025 Critical Minerals List. The work aligns with several Executive Orders, the USDA Secretarial Memo, and Forest Service priorities focused on expanding domestic mineral production and energy opportunities.

In this role, participants gain hands‑on training by collecting geologic data, conducting field inspections, writing technical reports, and contributing to studies that inform land management decisions. They will collaborate across disciplines—including hydrology, archaeology, tribal relations, and engineering—and engage with state and federal partners to ensure accurate geologic information. Field duties involve navigating rugged terrain and weather, while office tasks center on analysis and documentation, all contributing to greater program capacity and professional development.

Hosting Organization

Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands

Location 

Albuquerque, NM

• This position is primarily in an urban setting where emergency services, public transportation, and cell phone reception are available within 30 minutes. Interactions with members of the public are regular and frequent.
• This position may conduct work in a front country setting where emergency services are accessible, but may be delayed by 1-2 hours. Access to public transportation at work site is limited or not possible. Cell phone reception is limited, spotty, or not available.

Schedule 

November 2, 2026 - November 24, 2028

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

• Collect geologic data, take samples, and conduct field inspections of mining and exploration activities.
• Prepare technical and inspection reports, analyze findings, and support environmental studies and land‑management policy.
• Collaborate with internal specialists and external agencies to exchange geologic information and coordinate project needs.

Marginal Duties 

• Perform both fieldwork over rugged terrain for abandoned mine land inventory or cave surveys.
• Provide office‑based analysis and documentation to support FAST‑41 and critical minerals projects.
• Draft meeting notes for project meetings for review.

Required Qualifications 

• Valid U.S Drivers License
• Consent to completing federal government background checks
• Undergraduate degree in geosciences, hydrology, environmental science, or closely-related sciences degree to the ones listed above
• Computer skills in Microsoft applications such as Excel spreadsheet, Word, PowerPoint, OneNote.

Preferred Qualifications 

• The participant should be able to work well independently, both in the office and in the field with little oversight, have basic map reading and GPS orientation skills, able to interpret aerial photos, and be comfortable hiking cross-country in a rugged mountain environment.
• Skills in ArcGIS or ArcPro would strengthen the applicant's competitiveness, especially when paired with strong database management capabilities.

Hours 

40 per week

Living Accommodations 

No housing available, senior member must provide their own housing--see compensation below.

Compensation  

• Living Allowance - $925/week
• Commuting allowance - $50/week
• Housing allowance - $800/month (25 months)
• $1,100 Roundtrip Travel Allowance (paid once)
• Optional Health Insurance Coverage (25 months)

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes. 

Personal Vehicle Information

Required

Additional Benefits 

Defensive Driving Training

First Aid/CPR

Off-Road Vehicle Safety

Health Insurance

AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

Equal Opportunity Statement

SCA is an equal opportunity employer. Selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and performance, without unlawful discrimination.