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Critical Minerals Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mariana Minerals

Sr. Technical Sourcer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

... supply the critical minerals powering modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We're ... Research, identify, and engage passive candidates through highly personalized outreach * Partner ...

Mariana Minerals

Staff Process Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

You will help design, deploy, and operate first-of-its-kind refining processes for critical minerals. This role is highly hands-on and will play a key role in bridging R&D and plant operations ...

Mariana Minerals

Machine Learning Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

The Role Mariana Minerals is building the critical minerals supply chain from the ground up-and we ... Desired Qualifications * 2-8+ years of experience (including internships or research) in machine ...

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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 Aug 12, 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 is a critical minerals researcher?

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?

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.
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What cities are hiring for Critical Minerals Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Critical Minerals Researcher job openings:
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Critical Minerals Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Critical Minerals Researcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 91% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Marine Minerals Analyst / Domain Specialist (Geotechnical & Geophysical)

Essnova Solutions, Inc.

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Location: Remote (U.S.-based)
Employment Type: Full-Time (Contingent Upon Contract Award)
Security Requirement: Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a NACI (National Agency Check with Inquiries)
About Essnova
At Essnova Solutions, we're not just another IT services company-we're a catalyst for change in the federal contracting landscape. As a certified 8(a) and HUBZone small business, we've been recognized for our rapid growth and excellence, including being named Alabama's Minority-Owned Small Business of the Year and earning a spot on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies.
Our mission is clear: to empower those who serve by delivering bold, innovative solutions with unmatched efficiency. From geospatial analytics to healthcare IT, we tackle some of the most critical challenges across government, education, and healthcare sectors.
We're seeking driven professionals ready to take ownership, drive meaningful change, and grow alongside a company that's scaling smart and fast.
Position Overview
Essnova is seeking a Marine Minerals Analyst / Domain Specialist to support a federal marine minerals and geospatial program. The selected candidate will provide subject matter expertise in marine geology, critical mineral deposit types, geotechnical and geophysical datasets, and mineral resource lifecycle processes.
This role will support strategic analysis efforts, including document reviews, gap analyses, feasibility assessments, and benchmarking of domestic and international marine mineral resource programs. The ideal candidate possesses strong analytical writing skills and the ability to translate complex technical findings into executive-level recommendations and reports.
Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct Phase 0 analyses, including document reviews, benchmarking studies, and options analyses
  • Characterize current-state marine and critical mineral workflows, datasets, and operational processes
  • Identify data gaps, technical limitations, and opportunities for improvement
  • Evaluate technical feasibility and data readiness for marine mineral initiatives
  • Interpret and analyze geophysical, geotechnical, geologic, and regulatory datasets
  • Develop high-level lifecycle maps and functional workflows for marine mineral resource activities
  • Benchmark domestic and international marine mineral programs and best practices
  • Prepare leadership-ready reports, presentations, and technical summaries
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary geospatial, scientific, and program teams

Requirements
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Geology, Marine Geology, Geophysics, Earth Sciences, Environmental Science, Oceanography, or a related discipline
  • Demonstrated experience with marine geology and critical mineral deposit types
  • Experience utilizing and interpreting geophysical, geotechnical, and geological datasets
  • Understanding of mineral resource lifecycles, extraction processes, and regulatory frameworks
  • Experience conducting research, benchmarking, and analytical assessments
  • Strong technical writing and synthesis skills for executive and leadership audiences
  • Ability to communicate complex scientific findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a NACI/Public Trust clearance
Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience supporting BOEM, USGS, NOAA, DOI, or other federal natural resource programs
  • Familiarity with offshore energy, marine mineral exploration, or critical minerals initiatives
  • Experience evaluating domestic and international marine mineral resource programs
  • Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Marine Geology, Geophysics, Earth Sciences, or a related field
  • Published research, technical reports, or professional presentations related to marine resources or critical minerals

Essnova Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.

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