A Hydrologist studies water, including underground water and water from ground sources like lakes and streams, and researches various aspects of the water cycle. Collects data used to plan conservation efforts and manage water supply. May advise on groundwater contamination risks or planning for flood management.
Salary is commensurate and competitive with qualifications and experience. About University of South Carolina From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service âEUR" helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond. Advertised Job Summary Assistant Professor of Geology (Tenure-track) The Department of Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences at the University of South Carolina Aiken invites applications for a full-time, 9-month, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Geology, with an expected start date of August 16, 2027 . The successful candidate will join a growing Environmental Earth Systems (B.S.) program committed to excellence in undergraduate education through classroom, laboratory, field, and research experiences. We seek a colleague with expertise in groundwater science, hydrogeology, or a closely related area of water science, and demonstrated experience applying Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to environmental or water resource questions. Teaching responsibilities include introductory and upper-level undergraduate courses in geology, hydrology, GIS, or related areas, consistent with departmental needs and the successful candidate's expertise. The standard teaching load is 12 contact hours per semester. Additional responsibilities include advising undergraduate students, maintaining an active scholarly program that involves undergraduate researchers, participating in curriculum development, and contributing to departmental, university, and professional service.
Requirements:
Applicants must have a Ph. D. in Hydrology, Geology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field by the start date of employment; ABD will be considered with degree conferred by the time of appointment. Candidates must demonstrate experience with GIS or other geospatial technologies, show potential for excellence in undergraduate teaching, and demonstrate the ability to develop an active scholarly program that engages undergraduate students. Salary is commensurate and competitive with qualifications and experience.
Preferred:
Preference will be given to candidates with experience teaching undergraduate courses in environmental science, hydrology, and/or GIS; expertise in groundwater modeling, watershed science, contaminant hydrogeology, surface waterâEUR"groundwater interactions, water quality, or environmental geochemistry; demonstrated success mentoring undergraduate research; and postdoctoral or other relevant professional experience. The Department of Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences is home to 14 full-time faculty members and approximately 275 undergraduate majors. In addition to a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Earth Systems, we offer BS degrees in biology, clinical laboratory science, and public health. To learn more about our department and university, visit: https://www.usca.edu/biology-geology . USCA is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations. We strive to cultivate an environment that is open, welcoming, and supportive of all individuals.
Application Deadline:
November 1, 2026. To be considered for this position, applicants must apply online and upload the following with their application: a cover letter, a current CV, a teaching philosophy, research statement, unofficial graduate transcripts, and full contact information for three professional references. Finalists will be required to provide official undergraduate and graduate transcripts, as well as three letters of recommendation. Search related questions may be directed to the Search Committee Chair, Dr. Kelly Gibson at kellygi@usca.edu . The University of South Carolina Aiken (USCA), a public comprehensive university in the University of South Carolina system, offers undergraduate and master's degrees to more than 4000 students in 60 programs of study. USCA has ranked as one of the best public schools in the South by U.S. News & World Report for the 26th year in a row. Additionally, USCA was recognized for being a Best College for Veterans and a Top Performer in Social Mobility. USCA is South Carolina's COPLAC institution providing a unique and strong liberal arts core within our degree offerings. We boast students from 35 states and 32 countries. USCA has ten NCAA Division II Athletic programs. For more information about USC Aiken visit www.usca.edu . Situated on 450 acres, USCA is located thirty minutes from Augusta, GA (home of the Masters Tournament and Fort Gordon, new home of US Army Cyber Command), one hour from Columbia, SC, and within three hours of Charleston, SC, coastal beaches, and the Appalachian Mountains. Aiken is noted for its famous thoroughbred horses, numerous parks and golf courses, wonderful weather, spacious avenues, and historic homes. Required Education and Experience Applicants must have a Ph. D. in Hydrology, Geology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field by the start date of employment; ABD will be considered with degree conferred by the time of appointment. Candidates must demonstrate experience with GIS or other geospatial technologies, show potential for excellence in undergraduate teaching, and demonstrate the ability to develop an active scholarly program that engages undergraduate students. Salary is commensurate and competitive with qualifications and experience. Preferred Qualifications Preference will be given to candidates with experience teaching undergraduate courses in environmental science, hydrology, and/or GIS; expertise in groundwater modeling, watershed science, contaminant hydrogeology, surface waterâEUR"groundwater interactions, water quality, or environmental geochemistry; demonstrated success mentoring undergraduate research; and postdoctoral or other relevant professional experience. Knowledge/Skills/Abilities Job Close Date 11/01/2026 Special Instructions to Applicant In addition to completing the online application, please also upload a cover letter, a current CV, a teaching philosophy, research statement, unofficial graduate transcripts, and full contact information for three professional references. Finalists will be required to provide official undergraduate and graduate transcripts, as well as three letters of recommendation. Search related questions may be directed to the Search Committee Chair, Dr. Kelly Gibson at kellygi@usca.edu . Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email. We are only accepting applications submitted by November 1, 2026 . To apply, please visit: https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/211534 EEO Statement The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities on the basis of race, sex, gender, gender identity, transgender status, age, color, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, genetics, protected veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions. je-ab89827bb9d24e79a0f1754bb5b5c9b2