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Critical Minerals Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ICF

On Call Critical Minerals Expert - Remote

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$20.50 - $21/hr

Senior Critical Minerals Expert (On-Call, Part-Time/Hourly/Remote) Are you a critical minerals and ... and magnet research, and facilitate recycling (including black mass and other battery materials)

S&P Global

$120K/yr

Principal Consultant - Critical Minerals (USA) This role will contribute to the growth of our ... CERA for research and advisory; Horizons for energy expansion and sustainability solutions; and ...

Spgi

$120K/yr

Principal Consultant - Critical Minerals (USA) This role will contribute to the growth of our ... CERA for research and advisory; Horizons for energy expansion and sustainability solutions; and ...

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Critical Minerals Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do critical minerals researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for critical minerals researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are critical minerals researchers?

Critical minerals researchers are scientists and analysts who study minerals that are essential for modern technologies and economic development, but are at risk of supply disruptions. They investigate the occurrence, extraction, processing, and recycling of minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements, which are crucial for batteries, electronics, and renewable energy systems. Their work helps identify supply chain vulnerabilities, guide policy decisions, and promote sustainable resource management to secure access to these vital materials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Critical Minerals Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Critical Minerals Researcher, you need a solid background in geology, materials science, or environmental science, often supported by an advanced degree in a related field. Proficiency with mineral analysis software, GIS mapping tools, and laboratory instrumentation is typically required, along with familiarity with relevant regulatory frameworks. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear communication skills help researchers interpret data and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are vital for advancing sustainable resource development, informing policy, and addressing supply chain challenges in critical minerals.

What is the difference between Critical Minerals Researcher vs Geologist?

AspectCritical Minerals ResearcherGeologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, Earth Sciences, or related fieldsBachelor's or higher in Geology or Earth Sciences
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, field sites, research institutionsField sites, laboratories, consulting firms
Industry UsageMining companies, government agencies, research organizationsMining, environmental consulting, academia
Common Search IntentResearch roles focused on critical mineralsGeological analysis and exploration

The Critical Minerals Researcher and Geologist roles share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. However, Critical Minerals Researchers focus specifically on the study and development of critical mineral resources, often involving specialized research and data analysis, while Geologists have a broader scope including exploration, mapping, and environmental assessments.

What are some common challenges faced by Critical Minerals Researchers in their day-to-day work?

Critical Minerals Researchers often encounter challenges such as limited access to up-to-date geological data, evolving global supply chains, and the need to balance environmental considerations with resource extraction. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams—including geologists, policy analysts, and industry stakeholders—requires strong communication skills and adaptability. Additionally, researchers must stay current with rapidly changing technologies and regulations, which can impact research priorities and methodologies.
More about Critical Minerals Researcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Critical Minerals Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Critical Minerals Researcher job openings:
What states have the most Critical Minerals Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Critical Minerals Researcher jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Critical Minerals Researcher jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Critical Minerals Researcher jobs are:
Critical Minerals Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Critical Minerals Researcher job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Research Support Geologist, Critical Minerals

University of Idaho Job

Moscow, ID • On-site

$58K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Position Information
Internal Posting? Posting Number SP005292P Position Title Research Support Geologist, Critical Minerals Division/College University Research Department Idaho Geological Survey Location Moscow Posting Context Statement
The Idaho Geological Survey (IGS) is seeking a Research Support Geologist to support ongoing grant-funded projects at IGS. Based in Moscow, Idaho, the Research Support Geologist position reports to the grant PI with input from other IGS staff. IGS is a non-regulatory state agency that leads in the collection, interpretation, and dissemination of geologic and mineral data for Idaho. The Survey's mission is to provide the state with timely and relevant information. Members of the IGS fulfill this mission through applied geologic research and strong collaborations with federal and state agencies, academia, and the private sector.
Position Overview
The Research Support Geologist reports to the Research Geologist and conducts geologic mapping and applied geologic research on mine waste and critical mineral deposits. The position will interact with industry, state and federal agencies, academic institutions, professional colleagues, and the public.
Unit URL
https://www.idahogeology.org/
Position Qualifications
Required Experience
  • Compiling geologic and environmental information from technical reports, historic geologic reports, and mining documents.
  • Interpreting surficial geology and mine related features using Lidar-derived imagery
  • Familiarity with critical mineral deposit models and ore and gangue mineralogy
  • Working with relational geospatial databases
  • Using word processing and spreadsheet software
  • Field experience such as orienteering, data collection, rock identification, geologic mapping, and field safety
  • Using computer software and applications for vector graphics and illustrations and applications for GIS
Required Education
  • Bachelor's Degree in Geology or Earth Sciences
Required Other
  • Ability to travel regularly
  • Ability to work nonstandard business hours which may include weekends, evenings and holidays
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and be able to meet policy requirements for driving university-owned vehicles
Additional Preferred
  • Familiarity with Idaho's critical mineral deposits and mining history
  • Experience with metasedimentary rocks and sedimentary structures
  • Work experience in one or more of the following: 1) geologic mapping; 2) geologic databases; 3) GeMS schema GIS data
  • Working as part of an interdisciplinary team
  • Familiarity with the geology of Idaho
Physical Requirements & Working Conditions
  • Ability to lift, carry and/or otherwise move 50 pounds regularly
  • Ability to traverse irregular and steep terrain
  • Ability to work both indoors and outdoors
  • Ability to work in inclement weather, which includes hiking and camping
Degree Requirement Listed degree qualification is required at time of application
Posting Information
FLSA Status Exempt Employee Category Exempt Pay Range $58,240 or higher depending on experience. Type of Appointment Fiscal Year FTE
1.0
Full Time/Part Time Full Time Funding This position is contingent upon the continuation of work and/or funding. A visa sponsorship is available for the position listed in this vacancy. No Posting Date 05/28/2026 Closing Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants
This position is posted as open until filled, however, applications submitted on or before June 12, 2025 will receive priority consideration.
Applicants:
Please use your letter of qualification to explain in detail how your work experience, skills, and abilities meet both the required and preferred qualifications as listed in the position description. Your letter of qualification will be used to demonstrate your communication and writing skills to determine your ranking among the other applicants for this position.
For resources about how to write a letter of qualification, please visit the HR website here: Applicant Resources - Careers | University of Idaho (uidaho.edu)

To see the full job description, please visit the ORED Jobs page here. If you have any questions regarding this posting, please reach out to the search coordinator at kskovgard@uidaho.edu.
Applicant Resources https://www.uidaho.edu/human-resources/careers/applicant-resources Background Check Statement
Applicants who are selected as final possible candidates must be able to pass a criminal background check.
EEO Statement
The University of Idaho is an equal employment opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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