Position Overview

The Senior Mine Geologist is responsible for overseeing and coordinating ore control activities to ensure accurate grade control, effective ore/waste delineation, and optimal ore delivery to the processing facilities. This role provides technical leadership in geological modeling, sampling programs, and grade control processes to support safe and efficient mining operations. Working closely with Mine Engineering, Process Operations, and the Geology team, the Senior Mine Geologist ensures that geological data is accurately interpreted and integrated into mine plans to maximize resource recovery and maintain production targets.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead ore control and grade control programs to ensure accurate identification and classification of ore and waste.
- Oversee blast hole sampling, geological mapping, and grade control data collection.
- Oversee Mine Geology Contractors.
- Supervise and mentor lower leveled geologists.
- Provide guidance on ore boundaries and ore/waste delineation to support mining operations.

Ore Control and Production Support

- Support the development of drilling through designing drill holes, planning and implementing the drill program, and tracking the drilling budget.

Geological Interpretation and Modeling

- Interpret geological and grade control data to support short-term mine planning and production decisions.
- Contribute to the development and refinement of geological and block models.
- Ensure grade control data is accurately incorporated into resource models and mine plans.

Geological Mapping and Data Collection

- This position performs routine pit mapping to document lithology, alteration, mineralization, structures, and geotechnical features. The Senior Mine Geologist records field observations, updates geological databases, and assists with maintaining accurate 3D geological models. Additional duties include photographing faces, measuring structural orientations, and identifying geological hazards or changes in rock conditions that may impact mining.

Sampling and QA/QC

- The Senior Mine Geologist collects channel samples, grab samples, and blast‑hole cuttings following established sampling protocols. They assist with overseeing sample preparation, labeling, chain‑of‑custody procedures, and QA/QC checks to ensure data integrity. They provide monthly QA/QC reporting and mentor new samplers.

Field Operations and Monitoring

- Coordinate field activities related to blast hole sampling, geological logging, and pit mapping.
- Work closely with mine operations to ensure that mining activities align with geological interpretations.
- Monitor mining progress and adjust ore control recommendations as needed.

Data Management and Reporting

- Ensure accurate collection, validation, and management of geological and grade control data.
- Maintain QA/QC procedures for sampling, assays, and geological data.
- Prepare reports and provide regular updates on ore control performance and reconciliation results.

Team Leadership and Collaboration

- Provide guidance and mentorship to ore control geologists, junior geologists, and technicians.
- Work collaboratively with mine engineering, processing, and technical services teams.
- Participate in planning meetings and operational reviews.

Health, Safety and Environmental Compliance

- Ensure ore control activities comply with health, safety, and environmental standards.
- Promote safe work practices in field and operational environments.

Continuous Improvement

- Identify opportunities to improve ore control procedures, data accuracy, and resource recovery.
- Support reconciliation analysis between geological models, mine production, and plant performance.

Qualifications

- Bachelor’s degree in Geology, or a related field required.
- At least 5+ years of experience in mining geology or ore control, preferably in open-pit gold mining operations.
- Experience with grade control programs, blast hole sampling, geological modeling, RC/core drilling.
- Strong understanding of resource modeling and reconciliation processes.
- Familiarity with geological software and database systems used in mining operations.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work effectively with operations, engineering, and geology teams.
- Strong communication and technical reporting skills.
- Valid driver’s license required.

Work Environment / Physical Demands

- Work performed in both office and active mining environments.
- Frequent work in open-pit mining areas and field locations.
- Ability to walk over rough and uneven terrain.
- Climbing slopes, benches, and accessing pit areas may be required.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs of samples or field equipment.
- Exposure to dust, noise, weather conditions, and heavy equipment traffic.
- PPE required when working in operational areas.

Benefits
We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package including:

- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Health Savings Account (HSA) / Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
- Life Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth