OPEN POSITIONS / Conservation and Science Division, Cave Science Department / Cave Science Department Head

Cave Science Department Head

Details: Volunteer - Volunteer - Remote

Time Commitment: ~30 hours/month

Compensation: Volunteer

Unit: Conservation and Science Division, Cave Science Department

Reports to: Emily P. Davis, Conservation and Science Division Head

Contact: Emily P. Davis, emilyp@caves.org

Apply By: 02/01/2026

DOWNLOAD LISTING

ABOUT THE NSS:

Founded in 1941, the NSS is the largest membership organization dedicated to caves & caving. Composed of over 8,000 members and 250+ local chapters - known as grottos - we connect cavers so they can explore, study and conserve caves worldwide.

Org Chart
Strategic Plan

ABOUT THE POSITION:

Do you want to share your passion for caves and caving? Are you willing to give your time and skills in service to the caving community?

The National Speleological Society (NSS) is looking for a dedicated volunteer to lead the Cave Science Department. The Society has speleologists, students, and cavers who want to participate in research projects, start their own research, or simply learn about caves. Stimulating, sharing, educating, and sponsoring the study of caves and karst is a core part of our Society’s mission. The work of the Cave Science Department spans across interdisciplinary fields, including Biology, Geosciences, Microbiology, Karst Hydrogeology, Archaeology, Anthropology, Paleontology, Paleoclimatology, Geospatial Sciences, Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, Geography, and more.

The Cave Science Department is one of three departments within the Conservation and Science Division. The Department Head works with and reports to the Division Head. The Department currently includes the Biological Response Committee, the Cave Animal of the Year Committee, the Research Advisory Committee, the International Exploration Committee, the U.S. Exploration Committee, the Geospatial Committee, and the Cave Science Website Committee.

GENERAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Direct, manage, and expand cave science programs that align with the Society’s mission by leveraging the work of the department’s committees and progress made by speleologists supported by the department’s work.
  • Recruit, coordinate, train, and empower volunteers to deliver vital cave science resources, grants, and opportunities.
  • Assist committees in developing new ways to engage members and the public about speleology and raise awareness of cave science resources, programs, and grant and scholarship opportunities via print and online channels and in collaboration with teams from the Marketing & Media and Education departments in other divisions.
  • Work with volunteers and staff across the Department, the Division, and the NSS, to develop and review public content and to create positive and safe collaborative learning and research environments within the NSS and across cave and karst scientific communities.

    • EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Background in a cave science or related discipline, with strong networks in the speleological community.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills.
  • Adaptive interpersonal skills, with a dependable, enthusiastic, and positive attitude.
  • Comfortable working outdoors, including in caves, in all weather conditions and terrain.
  • Genuine passion for the NSS mission with vision and understanding of how we can promote and contribute to cave and karst science.

    • HOW TO APPLY:

    Volunteering is a rewarding way to give back to the NSS and help spread our mission. Ready to make an impact? Apply today!

    Applications should be sent by February 1, 2026. Contact us at emilyp@caves.org.

    The NSS is committed to diversity and inclusion. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.