1

Development Geologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Resource Geologist

Cedar City, UT · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

This role will support both current operations and future resource development by building accurate ... Develop geological models, ore domains, ore solids, surface models, structural models, and fault ...

Senior Geologist

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$185K - $250K/yr

... development. As global demand for copper, lithium, nickel, rare earth elements, geothermal energy ... The company's platform integrates geological, geophysical, and drilling data into intelligent ...

Coeur Alaska prioritizes safety, teamwork, career development and growth. If you want to grow your career in a progressive, team-oriented environment, apply today. About the Job: The Mine Geologist ...

Senior Geologist

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$185K - $250K/yr

... development. As global demand for copper, lithium, nickel, rare earth elements, geothermal energy ... The company's platform integrates geological, geophysical, and drilling data into intelligent ...

Geologist

Rolla, MO · On-site +1

Attend professional and technical development trainings. * Present findings to internal and ... Geology: Develop and maintain a working knowledge of geologic principles and their applications

Work across multiple disciplines - from geology to engineering to business development - as needed to move projects forward Qualifications * Bachelor's or master's degree in Geology, or Petroleum ...

Such geology products inform reservoir, drilling, completions, and business development; and are aimed at identifying fairways, mitigating geo-hazards & uncertainty, maximizing reserves, and ...

Senior Geologist

Delta Junction, AK · On-site

$127K - $134K/yr

The Senior Geologist will lead a team focusing on the development and delivery of robust geological models and estimations and is pivotal in interpreting complex geological data to guide decision ...

Own the development and maintenance of a grade control model, integrating pit mapping, blast hole ... Geological Interpretation and Field Work * Conduct and oversee detailed pit face mapping, geologic ...

Analyze geological data and prepare detailed technical reports. * Evaluate potential environmental ... Contribute to business development efforts, including proposal preparation. * Supervise personnel ...

Be Seen First

Provide field oversight during construction, including grading and site development Qualifications * Active California PG or CEG license (required) * Bachelor's or Master's degree in Geology ...

Be Seen First

Provide field oversight during construction, including grading and site development Qualifications * Active California PG or CEG license (required) * Bachelor's or Master's degree in Geology ...

Senior Geologist

Delta Junction, AK · On-site

$127K - $134K/yr

The Senior Geologist will lead a team focusing on the development and delivery of robust geological models and estimations and is pivotal in interpreting complex geological data to guide decision ...

The Chief Geologist leads all mine-site geological activities for a high-tonnage open-pit, Cu ... Proven leadership, team development, contractor management, and cross-functional collaboration with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Development Geologist information

See salary details

$27K

$101.7K

$164.5K

How much do development geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for development geologist in the United States is $101,693.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,500.00 and $146,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Development Geologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Development Geologist, you generally need a degree in geology or earth sciences, with expertise in sedimentology, stratigraphy, and reservoir characterization. Familiarity with geological modeling software (such as Petrel), seismic interpretation tools, and experience with well log analysis are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills are crucial in this role. These skills are vital for accurately evaluating subsurface formations, optimizing hydrocarbon extraction, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to maximize resource development.

How does a Development Geologist typically collaborate with engineers and other subsurface professionals on oil and gas projects?

Development Geologists work closely with reservoir engineers, drilling engineers, and geophysicists to optimize field development plans. They interpret geological data to create detailed reservoir models, which guide drilling locations and production strategies. Regular cross-disciplinary meetings and data-sharing are common, ensuring that geological insights are integrated with engineering constraints to maximize resource recovery. This collaborative environment helps align project goals and troubleshoot challenges as they arise.

What is the difference between Development Geologist vs Exploration Geologist?

AspectDevelopment GeologistExploration Geologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, often with industry certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, often with certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-site at oil and gas fields, working with drilling and production teamsFieldwork in remote areas, conducting surveys and sampling
Industry UsageFocuses on developing known reservoirs and optimizing productionFocuses on discovering new reserves and exploration activities

Development Geologists primarily work on mature fields to enhance extraction, while Exploration Geologists seek new reserves. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications but differ in their focus and work environment.

What does a development geologist do?

A development geologist analyzes subsurface rock formations to identify and evaluate hydrocarbon reservoirs, supporting the drilling and production of oil and gas. They interpret geological data, create maps, and collaborate with engineers to optimize extraction processes, often using tools like seismic surveys and geological modeling software.
More about Development Geologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Development Geologist jobs? Cities with the most Development Geologist job openings:
What states have the most Development Geologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Development Geologist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Development Geologist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Development Geologist jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Development Geologist jobs? For Development Geologist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Development Geologist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,693 per year, or $48.9 per hour.
Resource Geologist

Resource Geologist

Professional Recruiters

Cedar City, UT • On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Resource Geologist – Southern Utah - #4466


We are seeking an experienced Resource Geologist to play a key role in developing, maintaining, and optimizing geological resource models for an active mining operation. This is a high-impact technical role for a geologist who enjoys combining field geology, data analysis, resource estimation, grade control, and mine operations support.

The ideal candidate will bring strong experience in resource modeling, geological interpretation, drill-hole data analysis, QA/QC, grade control modeling, and mine planning software such as Geovia Surpac, Micromine, and/or Leapfrog. This role will support both current operations and future resource development by building accurate models that guide mining decisions, improve ore control, and support long-term mine planning.

This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on geologist who wants to be closely involved in the full resource cycle — from drilling and data validation to modeling, reconciliation, technical reporting, and operational execution.


Key Responsibilities

Resource Modeling & Estimation

The Resource Geologist will develop and optimize geological resource models using historical and current drilling data, assay results, NI 43-101 reports, ore domains, surface solids, ore solids, structural data, faulting information, core logging, and other relevant geological inputs.

Responsibilities include:

  • Conduct resource modeling and resource estimation for existing operations and new projects under evaluation.
  • Develop geological models, ore domains, ore solids, surface models, structural models, and fault solids.
  • Utilize Geovia Surpac, Micromine, Leapfrog, CAD, and other resource modeling tools to create and maintain geological models.
  • Digitize wireframes for ore grades using assay results and geological interpretation.
  • Digitize faults, geological formations, surfaces, ore zones, and block models.
  • Conduct statistical and geostatistical analysis on assay data to support accurate ore-zone grade estimation.
  • Run variogram and statistical analysis in support of QA/QC and resource model requirements.
  • Create block models with ore values constrained by statistical analysis, geological features, and wireframes.
  • Maintain a strong focus on model reconciliation and investigate changes between resource, reserve, grade control, and mining dig-block models.
  • Review historical and current geological data for accuracy, consistency, gaps, and errors.
  • Convert historical records, assay results, and geological data from Excel, Access, and other formats into usable formats for modeling software.
  • Prepare resource modeling reports, volume estimates, ore percentage reports, and technical summaries for management.
  • Recommend improvements to resource modeling processes to enhance quality, consistency, accuracy, and efficiency.
  • Work with outside consultants on block modeling and resource estimation as needed.


Grade Control & Mine Operations Support

  • Support mine operations through grade-control block model creation and interpretation.
  • Ensure geological information from the resource model is accurately carried into grade-control models.
  • Assist with wireframing, face mapping, and digital representation of geological features.
  • Define and guide appropriate sampling and estimation procedures for mining operations.
  • Support core logging, QA/QC standards, drilling standards, sampling standards, and core-management procedures.
  • Develop and implement SOPs for resource modeling, QA/QC, drilling, sampling, sample preparation, core handling, and other geological processes.
  • Encourage consistency, procedural discipline, and quality controls across technical services and mine operations.
  • Train technical services personnel and new employees on Surpac processes, data accuracy, block-model reporting, and resource estimation practices.
  • Assist teams in preparing block-model assessments and reporting formats for management.


Technical Analysis & Reporting

  • Utilize resource software such as Geovia Surpac, Micromine, and Leapfrog to generate resource and grade-control models.
  • Establish systems and standards for resource modeling, QA/QC, drilling, sampling, sample preparation, and geological data management.
  • Apply geostatistical analysis and estimation modeling techniques to support accurate resource interpretation.
  • Conduct reconciliation validation between resource models, reserve models, grade-control models, and mining dig blocks.
  • Prepare detailed technical reports and complete reporting requirements within established timelines.
  • Assist with NI 43-101 technical reports, news releases, presentations, and other technical disclosures as required.


Project Management

  • Lead and manage drilling programs.
  • Prepare wireframes, domain characterizations, ore solids, surface models, and structural interpretations based on drill-hole data, geological mapping, and related site information.
  • Coordinate with contractors, consultants, and regulatory bodies to ensure project alignment with company goals, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
  • Participate in feasibility studies, cost estimation, and economic evaluations with a focus on optimizing ore quality and resource value.


Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Geological Engineering, Geoscience, or a related field.
  • 5–10 years of experience as a geologist in mining, exploration, or resource development.
  • Minimum of 3+ years of experience in resource modeling, preferably with complex sulfide and oxide ore bodies.
  • Strong geological interpretation skills with the ability to apply interpretations to resource estimation.
  • Experience with Ordinary Kriging and estimation-quality optimization.
  • Experience with Resource and Grade Control estimation in mining or exploration.
  • Experience with mine planning and resource modeling software such as Geovia Surpac, Micromine, and/or Leapfrog.
  • Understanding of database management, QA/QC procedures, drilling practices, sampling practices, and standard laboratory analytical methods.
  • Exposure to drill-and-blast design, blasting management, and wall control.
  • Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations.
  • Contractor management experience.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, and Outlook.
  • Authorized to work in the United States.


Preferred Qualifications

  • 5–7 years of dedicated resource modeling experience.
  • Professional Geologist certification or eligibility for certification.
  • Experience supporting NI 43-101 technical reporting.
  • Strong hands-on experience with oxide and sulfide mineral systems.
  • Experience supporting active mine operations, grade control, and mine planning teams.


Skills & Competencies

  • Strong analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to translate complex geological data into clear recommendations for management and operations teams.
  • Strong mentoring and training capabilities.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with geology, metallurgy, engineering, technical services, and operations teams.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing to a team-oriented mining environment.
  • Strong project management and organizational skills.


Please send a copy of your resume as a word or PDF doc to loralea@professionalrecruiterinc.com
If I can assist you with any of your recruiting efforts please give me a call – 801/327-9990
**I grow my business through referral. If you know someone who would benefit from the way I work then please recommend me, or pass me their contact details and I will be happy to call them.**
Lora Lea Mock

801/327-9990

loralea@professionalrecruiterinc.com

http://www.professionalrecruiterinc.com

Please invite me to join your Linked In network

http://www.linkedin.com/in/loraleamock

Like us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/ProfessionalRecruiterInc

Company Description

This company offers the opportunity to be a big fish is a smaller but rapidly growing mine.