For individuals with a geology degree, finding a job in the mining industry can be a great way to directly use geology expertise while being out in the field. While some geologists enjoy lab work or teaching, many geologists prefer to be outdoors, exploring and taking samples.
Common Mining Geology Jobs
There are many types of job openings available in the mining industry, each with varying levels of expertise. Below are some of the most common job openings for geologists:
Entry-Level / Junior MINING Geologists
One of the most common job openings you’ll see in the mining industry is for a Junior Mining Geologist. “Junior” Geologist is a term common in the mining industry and refers to an Entry-Level Geology position.
Junior mining geologist positions are excellent job opportunities for new geologists or those who have recently received their degree in geology. A junior geologist will work alongside and learn from senior-level geologists. Their job duties typically include variations of the following:
Soil sampling and claim staking.
Visiting and overseeing drill rigs.
Producing technical logs of core and RC chips.
Observing and recording geotechnical and geologic data.
Field mapping, sampling, and data analysis to refine targets.
Wash, photograph, cut, and organize core.
Core Logging Geologist
Core logging geologists are job openings that typically require previous experience at a mine. This is a good second career step after geologists perform junior geologist jobs.
Core logging geologists will help to produce core logging for drilling programs, including lithologic, structural, and mineralization details. They will also complete core sampling and photography, as well as producing geological summary reports.
Mine Geologist
Mine geologist job openings can typically be for above-ground or underground positions. As a mine geologist, the individual will often complete mapping, channel sampling, production input, drilling services, Qa/Qc implementation and management, drill program management, and more. The goal of the geologist will be to help analyze current geological trends and to update geologic models as needed to help execute an optimal strategy.
Explore Current Geology & Mining Job Openings
Are you interested in a career in geology in the mining industry? Rangefront Mining Services offers staffing services for geology jobs across the nation. Explore our existing job openings by clicking the button below, or submit your resume by clicking here to be considered when an opening fitting your qualifications comes available.
This article was originally published in June 2022 and has since been edited for information, accuracy, and completeness.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
BRIAN GOSS
President, Rangefront Mining Services
Brian Goss brings over 20 years of experience in gold and mineral exploration. He is the founder and President of Rangefront, a premier geological services and mining consulting company that caters to a large spectrum of clients in the mining and minerals exploration industries. Brian is also a director of Lithium Corp. (OTCQB: LTUM), an exploration stage company specializing in energy storage minerals and from 2014 to 2017, he fulfilled the role of President and Director of Graphite Corp. (OTCQB: GRPH), an exploration stage that specialized in the development of graphite properties. Prior to founding Rangefront, Brian worked as a staff geologist for Centerra Gold on the REN project, as well as various exploration and development projects in the Western United States and Michigan. Brian Goss holds a Bachelor of Science Degree with a major in Geology from Wayne State University in Michigan.