USGS Associate Director for Core Science Systems

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is seeking to fill the Senior Executive Service (SES) position of Associate Director for Core Science Systems to lead the USGS Core Science Systems Mission Area. The position reports to the USGS Director and is responsible for providing executive leadership to the Nation’s topographic and geologic maps, real-time collection and distribution of world-wide satellite imaging, access to defense and intelligence remote sensing for Federal civilian use, and national assessments and monitoring of land cover, and land protection and conservation status. The incumbent carries out the following specific responsibilities:

  • Oversees the broad program of natural science investigations and research to provide scientific information, maps, data, and tools as part of the Nation’s Spatial Data Infrastructure for emergency responders, resource managers, policy makers, and the public, in promoting conservation, recreation and the safety, security and economic well-being of the Nation.
  • Provides executive direction and oversight to establish priorities and ensure effective and efficient program planning, management, and execution of the National Geospatial, Science Synthesis Analysis and Research, National Cooperative Geologic Mapping, National Geological and Geophysical Data Preservation, and National Land Imaging programs as well as the Executive Secretariat for the interagency Federal Geographic Data Committee.
  • Directs the planning and development of long-term national and international programs to accomplish the Bureau’s mission providing for the capture, maintenance and delivery of world-wide satellite data, and the characterization of the Earth’s surface and subsurface through topographic and geologic mapping.
  • Strategizes the development and advancement of long-term national and international programs for the Core Science Systems Mission Area that are executed by approximately 1,500 personnel, 10 regionally managed science centers, and dozens of external partners, including other Federal agencies, state geological surveys, private-industry geospatial firms, international partners, and universities.
  • Serves as member of the Executive Leadership Team and shares in the planning, direction, and management of the integrated science programs of the USGS including oversight and evaluation of broad natural science programs to ensure the human and fiscal resources, interdisciplinary direction, and bureau-wide coordination.
  • Provides executive-level representation for the USGS with Federal, State, and local governments, the scientific community in the private sector and academic institutions, and to customers and constituent groups.

This full-time position is located in Reston, Virginia. Applications can be submitted April 3 through May 3, 2024, here: USAJOBS – Job Announcement

As the science arm of the Department of the Interior, the USGS brings an array of earth, water, biological, and mapping data and expertise to bear in support of decision-making on environmental, resource, and public-safety issues. The Department places a high value on diversity of experience and cultural perspectives and encourages applications from all interested eligible candidates. Diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) are fundamental principles that guide the Department and allow us to successfully achieve our mission. For more on the USGS, please see http://www.usgs.gov.