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Geoscientist - Job Opportunity at Idaho National Laboratory

Idaho Falls, USA
Full-time
Early-career
Posted: April 11, 2025
On-site
USD 77,628 - 159,228 per year

Benefits

Comprehensive Medical Insurance with competitive coverage
Premium Dental and Vision Plans showing strong employee focus
Strategic 401(k) with exceptional 9% total employer contribution (4.2% base + 4.8% match)
Generous Paid Time Off reflecting work-life balance priority
Extensive Education Support through tuition assistance program
Full Relocation Package demonstrating investment in talent
Flexible Spending Accounts for tax optimization
9/80 Work Schedule offering additional work-life balance

Key Responsibilities

Lead groundbreaking research initiatives in geothermal energy, geologic hydrogen, and subsurface energy storage
Direct field sampling campaigns and laboratory analyses with strategic impact on national energy goals
Develop innovative research proposals to secure external funding and advance program objectives
Drive scientific publication efforts in high-impact journals to establish research leadership
Foster interdisciplinary collaboration to advance subsurface science understanding
Contribute to national laboratory mission through cutting-edge experimental protocols

Requirements

Education

M.S. or Ph.D. in geology/geochemistry/earth science or related field

Experience

Early career researcher

Required Skills

Strong background in mineral physics Petrology expertise Geochemical cycles knowledge Isotope geochemistry proficiency Ore deposits understanding Advanced written and verbal communication skills Field sampling experience Experimental design capabilities Grant writing proficiency
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The geothermal energy sector is experiencing rapid growth with increasing federal investment and technological advancement, creating expanded opportunities for research scientists. Geologic hydrogen exploration is emerging as a critical frontier in clean energy research, positioning early-career scientists at the forefront of innovation. The Department of Energy's focus on subsurface energy storage solutions is driving increased demand for geoscience expertise in national laboratories.

Salary Evaluation

The offered salary range of $77,628 - $159,228 is highly competitive for an early-career research position, reflecting both the specialized nature of the role and the federal laboratory setting. This range allows for significant growth based on qualifications and performance.

Role Significance

Typical interdisciplinary research teams at national laboratories comprise 5-8 core researchers with additional support staff and collaborators.
While positioned as an early-career role, the position carries significant research autonomy and project leadership responsibilities, indicating strong growth potential.

Key Projects

Leading-edge geothermal energy research programs with national impact Pioneering geologic hydrogen storage initiatives Advanced subsurface energy storage solutions Innovative in-situ mining technology development

Success Factors

Strong publication track record in peer-reviewed journals Ability to secure external funding through grant proposals Exceptional field research capabilities Collaborative approach to interdisciplinary research Strong experimental design and implementation skills

Market Demand

Very High - The intersection of geothermal energy, hydrogen storage, and clean energy initiatives creates strong demand for specialized geoscientists, particularly in federal research settings.

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Experimental design and implementation - Essential for advancing research objectives Grant writing - Critical for securing research funding Field sampling expertise - Fundamental to data collection and analysis Interdisciplinary collaboration - Key for project success

Beneficial Skills

Understanding of DOE funding mechanisms Project management capabilities Experience with advanced analytical instruments Data analysis and modeling skills

Unique Aspects

Rare opportunity to work on cutting-edge geologic hydrogen research Combination of field work and laboratory research Direct involvement in national energy policy implementation Exceptional work-life balance with 9/80 schedule

Career Growth

Typical progression to senior research scientist within 3-5 years, with potential for program leadership roles within 5-7 years.

Potential Next Roles

Senior Research Scientist Principal Investigator Research Program Manager Technical Group Leader

Company Overview

Idaho National Laboratory

Idaho National Laboratory is a premier research institution with over 5,000 employees, focusing on nuclear energy, renewable energy, and national security research.

Leading national laboratory with significant influence in energy research and policy, particularly in nuclear and renewable energy sectors.
Major employer in Idaho Falls region with substantial impact on local economy and research community.
Professional research environment with strong emphasis on work-life balance, demonstrated by the 9/80 schedule and comprehensive benefits package.
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