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Exploration Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

P&C Recruiting and HR

ID · On-site

The Exploration Manager is responsible for developing and executing exploration strategies that ... Direct the development and maintenance of three-dimensional geological models and provide technical ...

Coeur Mining

Exploration Geologist

Lovelock, NV · On-site

In addition, the Company wholly owns the Silvertip polymetallic critical minerals exploration ... direct and indirect United States subsidiaries (the "Company") to provide equal opportunity ...

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Exploration Director information

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$47K

$79.9K

$112K

How much do exploration director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for exploration director in the United States is $79,874.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,500.00 and $90,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an exploration director do?

An Exploration Director oversees and manages the exploration activities within a company, typically in industries like mining, oil and gas, or natural resources. Their responsibilities include developing exploration strategies, managing budgets, leading exploration teams, and ensuring that projects are conducted safely and efficiently. They also analyze geological data, assess potential sites, and coordinate with other departments to ensure alignment with company goals. The role requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and the ability to make high-level decisions under uncertain conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exploration director, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exploration Director, you need strong expertise in geology, project management, and resource evaluation, typically supported by a relevant degree and extensive mining or energy sector experience. Familiarity with GIS software, geological modeling tools, and industry-standard reporting systems is essential, and certifications like PMP or membership in professional geological societies are often valued. Leadership, strategic thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for guiding multidisciplinary teams and engaging stakeholders. These skills and qualifications ensure successful identification and development of new resource opportunities while managing risks and aligning with business objectives.

What are some common challenges faced by an exploration director, and how can they be addressed?

Exploration Directors often encounter challenges such as managing exploration budgets under uncertain geological conditions, adapting to shifting regulatory environments, and ensuring effective cross-disciplinary collaboration among geologists, engineers, and environmental specialists. To address these, successful Exploration Directors prioritize clear communication, foster strong relationships with stakeholders, and implement agile project management strategies. Staying updated on technological advancements and regulatory changes also helps mitigate risks and streamline exploration processes.

What is the difference between Exploration Director vs Geoscientist?

AspectExploration DirectorGeoscientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, Geophysics, or related field; industry experienceBachelor's or higher in Geology, Geophysics, or Earth Sciences; often with certifications
Work EnvironmentLeadership role overseeing exploration projects, managing teams, strategic planningFieldwork, data analysis, research, reporting
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas companies, mining firms, energy corporationsResearch institutions, consulting firms, energy companies

The Exploration Director focuses on leading exploration initiatives, strategic decision-making, and managing teams, while Geoscientists conduct research, analyze geological data, and support exploration activities. The Exploration Director has a broader managerial scope, whereas Geoscientists are more involved in technical analysis and fieldwork.

What cities are hiring for Exploration Director jobs?

Cities with the most Exploration Director job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Exploration jobs?

The most popular types of Exploration jobs are:

What states have the most Exploration Director jobs?

States with the most job openings for Exploration Director jobs include:

Exploration Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exploration Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,874 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

Exploration Manager

ID • On-site

P&C Recruiting and HR
See more jobs at P&C Recruiting and HRexternal

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description


Job Description

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Exploration Manager to lead exploration activities at the the mine.

The Exploration Manager is responsible for developing and executing exploration strategies that support mineral resource growth, reserve replacement, and the long-term success of two operations. This position provides technical leadership for all exploration activities, including underground and surface drilling programs, geological modeling, target generation, resource development, and exploration budgeting. The successful candidate will lead the exploration team while working closely with mine operations, engineering, technical services, and senior leadership to maximize the value of the Company's mineral assets.


Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute short- and long-term exploration strategies for two mines that align with the Company's operational and growth objectives.
  • Lead and oversee all underground and surface exploration programs, including drill target generation, planning, execution, and evaluation.
  • Manage exploration personnel, drilling contractors, consultants, and technical service providers across both operations.
  • Prepare and administer annual exploration budgets, forecasts, and project schedules.
  • Oversee geological mapping, core logging, sampling, data collection, QA/QC programs, and geological database management.
  • Interpret geological, structural, geochemical, and geophysical data to identify, prioritize, and advance exploration targets.
  • Direct the development and maintenance of three-dimensional geological models and provide technical support for Mineral Resource estimation and reporting.
  • Collaborate with mine geology, engineering, operations, and technical services to integrate exploration results into short- and long-term mine planning.
  • Prepare technical reports, presentations, and exploration updates for executive leadership and corporate management.
  • Ensure all exploration activities are conducted in accordance with company safety standards, environmental regulations, and applicable permitting requirements.
  • Foster a culture of safety, teamwork, accountability, technical excellence, and continuous improvement within the exploration department.
  • Stay informed of emerging exploration technologies and industry best practices to improve exploration effectiveness and operational efficiency.


Qualifications and Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Geology, Geological Engineering, or a related field.
  • Minimum of seven (7) years of progressive mineral exploration experience, including leadership or supervisory responsibilities.
  • Experience with underground hard rock mining and exploration programs is required.
  • Experience exploring silver, lead, zinc, or other polymetallic vein deposits is strongly preferred.
  • Professional Geologist (PG), Registered Professional Geoscientist (P.Geo.), or equivalent professional designation is preferred.
  • Demonstrated experience managing underground diamond drilling programs, exploration budgets, and multidisciplinary technical teams.
  • Strong understanding of structural geology, ore deposit models, geological modeling, and Mineral Resource development.
  • Proficiency with industry-standard geological software such as Leapfrog Geo, Vulcan, Datamine, ArcGIS, or similar platforms.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, organizational, and project management skills.
  • Ability to travel between company operations and work effectively in active underground mining environments.