A great work environment, professional growth opportunities, and a foot in the door with an employer of choice: that’s what PSU students Jared Lutrus and Paul Gerber have found in their positions at the USGS Oregon Water Science Center (ORWSC) this year.
Lutrus and Gerber, both veterans who served in the Marines, are undergraduate Geology majors who will graduate in June. They were hired last fall by USGS as administrative assistants to help manage the behind-the-scenes paperwork and logistics that keep a large office like ORWSC running smoothly. They may also get fieldwork experience this spring, providing additional experience that will help build their resumes.
“The USGS is the ultimate employer for Geology majors, so being able to get a foot in the door as a student is fantastic,” said Lutrus, who lived in Portland prior to joining the Marines, and wanted to return after his service. Both students hope to move into science-based positions in the long term, and saw the benefit of taking an administrative role as an entry point to the USGS. They have an appreciation for the amount of coordination required to make an office function, and Lutrus added, “Being a team player is important - I learned that in the military.”
Gerber noted the friendly work environment and access to colleagues who work in many disciplines - not just water science - as additional benefits of his role. “I’m working with a wide variety of folks from different backgrounds, which is really valuable,” he said. “Many of the staff members are also PSU graduates, so they understand our experience.”
ORWSC Director Dar Crammond noted that these students bring a lot to the USGS as well. “They have training and life experiences from their time in the military that transfer well to the requirements of a professional science organization. Student veterans demonstrate a drive for self-improvement by attending PSU and they come to the USGS with curiosity, ambition, and a willingness to learn.”
Long-term, Gerber is considering a career with the USGS or the National Park Service, while Lutrus is hoping to continue with the USGS. Both encouraged other students to apply for future opportunities at the ORWSC. Crammond affirmed that these positions are a win-win for all. “Hiring students gives us a chance to evaluate their talents and help build their skills, and for them to work alongside professionals and share their enthusiasm and energy. Whether the connection is a short-term internship or an entire career, USGS values the opportunity to build science capacity for society at large and to mentor future science professionals for Oregon.”