Geology Specialist; Trainee

Job Posting

Job Posting closes:
March 03, 2026. Required documents uploaded by:
March 03, 2026.

Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is led by Secretary Janet Stanek. KDHE comprises three divisions:
Public Health, Environment, and Health Care Finance (includes the State’s Medicaid program, Kan Care). KDHE is the only agency in the nation to have these three entities under one roof, allowing a holistic approach to improving and protecting Kansans’ health and well-being.

Verification of identity and employment eligibility is required by federal law. KDHE does not provide sponsorship for this position. KDHE participates in E‑Verify.

• Who can apply:
  External (open to anyone)
• Classification:
  Unclassified
• Status:
  Full‑time, Regular
• Work schedule:
  
  Monday‑Friday, 8 a.m.‑5 p.m. (flexible schedules available)
• Benefits:
  Yes
• Veterans' preference eligible
• Transportation:
  Not provided

• Geology Trainee: $25.05 per hour
• Geology Associate: $27.62 per hour
• Professional Geologist: $32.00‑$35.25 per hour
• Salary may vary with education, experience, or qualifications.

Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and additional coverage.

Sick & vacation leave, work‑life balance programs (parental, military, jury, funeral leave), paid state holidays, fitness centers at select locations, employee discounts with the STAR Program, retirement and deferred compensation programs.

The position (K0239158) supports the remediation program in the Southeast District Office in Chanute, KS. Duties include responding to environmental emergencies, managing contamination, conducting compliance inspections, and providing technical assistance.

• Respond to spills, releases, and discharges of regulated substances, including emergency responses outside normal business hours.
• Consult and instruct industry representatives and contractors on containment and remediation.
• Provide technical expertise to state employees, the public, and concerned parties.
• Manage a limited number of projects within the Southeast District, reviewing and evaluating geologic and hydrogeologic investigations.
• Oversee field activities of consultants and contractors, ensuring compliance with approved plans.
• Review investigation and monitoring reports for accuracy and site updates.

• Education: High School, GED.
• Licensing & Certification: Valid driver’s license; required for use of state vehicles.
• Minimum qualifications: Four years of experience in geology, hydrogeology, earth science, or a related field.
• Preferred qualifications: Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access; proofreading and editing;
  ArcGIS; sampling and data logging; teamwork; use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Kansas Tax Clearance Certificate within ten days of the offer.
• Pass a physical certifying ability to work with PPE and perform essential job functions.

Name:
Tracey N. Benson
Email:
Tracey.

N.Benson
Mailing address: 1000 SW Jackson St., Suite 580, Topeka, KS 66612

• Transcripts
• DD214 (if claiming veteran’s preference)
• Resume
• Cover letter

Veterans' Preference Eligible:
Former military personnel or spouse verified as a veteran. Veterans' preference does not guarantee a job; selection is based on qualifications.

Disability Hiring Preference:
Applicants with disabilities may claim preference if qualified. Documentation should be sent directly to OPS, not as part of the application.

The State of Kansas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability, or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job. Requests for accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act may be addressed to the recruiter.