Research Associate

RESEARCH ASSOCIATE

DEPT: BUREAU OF GEOLOGY

REG

TEMP

FULL TIME

PART TIME

STARTING RATE or SALARY RANGE $60,320 - 76,305

Employees being promoted to a higher classified position receive the minimum for the position or a pay rate adjustment of 8% whichever is greater.

All regular positions also entitle the employee to several benefits including health, dental, vision, life insurance, and retirement which is largely paid by New Mexico Tech for the employee and dependents.

INTERNAL POSTING THROUGH: Concurrent* CONSIDERATION WILL BE GIVEN FIRST TO TEMPORARY AND REGULAR TECH EMPLOYEES WHO APPLY WITHIN THE 7 DAY INTERNAL POSTING. APPLICATIONS RECEIVED AFTER THE 7 DAY POSTING MARGIN WILL BE CONSIDERED WITH OTHER OUTSIDE APPLICANTS.

JOB SUMMARY:

The New Mexico Geochronology Research Laboratory (NMGRL) is seeking a dedicated and experienced Lab Manager to oversee the operations of the 40 Ar/ 39 Ar geochronology laboratory. The successful candidate will manage the daily activities of the lab, including sample preparation and the operation of two noble gas mass spectrometers. This position also offers opportunities for conducting collaborative research.

NMGRL is part of the New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources (NMBGMR), a research division of New Mexico Tech (NMT), located in Socorro, New Mexico. As the state's geological survey, the Bureau is a non-regulatory research organization committed to understanding and managing New Mexico's natural resources and geological hazards. The Bureau conducts comprehensive geological studies, provides educational resources, and collaborates with industry and government agencies to support sustainable development and economic growth in New Mexico.

We invite applicants with technical expertise in sample preparation and noble gas laboratories to apply for this position. Candidates with a broad range of experience levels are encouraged to apply, and both master's and PhD levels will be considered. This role is ideal for someone with a strong technical background who is eager to contribute to a leading research institution and advance their career in geochronology.

JOBS FUNCTIONS:

Attend to the day-to-day operation of the mass specs and extraction system.

Conduct and oversee mineral separation.

Train students and visitors in the mineral separation facility and lab operations.

Data management and communication with clients.

Assist students and clients in the acquisition of argon data.

Develop new technologies and databases to keep lab state-of-the-art.

Coordinate irradiations and set timelines for analysis of multiple projects.

Manage all safety training and protocols of the lab.

Conduct collaborative research.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Master's Degree in Argon geochronology or other noble gas systems.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Operation of noble gas mass spectrometers. Geochemistry of noble gas systems. Mineral separation experience.