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Exploration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Exploration Driller

Belle Fourche, SD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Exploration Driller Location: Belle Fourche, SD What We Offer: * Competitive pay, commensurate with experience * Health/Dental/Vision plans * 401k company match * Life Insurance * Short Term ...

The Senior Exploration Geologist will report to the Exploration Manager and is responsible for support program design, field execution where appropriate, integrated geological interpretation, target ...

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Exploration information

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$35.5K

$51.5K

$76.5K

How much do exploration jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for exploration in the United States is $51,494.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an exploration?

An Exploration job involves searching for and assessing natural resources such as minerals, oil, gas, or other valuable materials. Professionals in this field use geological surveys, remote sensing, and drilling techniques to locate and evaluate potential extraction sites. These roles are common in industries like mining, energy, and environmental research. Exploration jobs often require fieldwork in remote locations and collaboration with engineers, geologists, and scientists.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the exploration position, and why are they important?

To excel in an Exploration role, you typically need a strong background in geology, earth sciences, or engineering, often supported by a relevant degree or field experience. Technical proficiency with GIS software, mapping tools, field sampling equipment, and sometimes certifications in safety or remote operations is highly valued. Strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this profession. These qualities are vital because exploration work often involves challenging environments, complex data analysis, and close collaboration to identify and evaluate potential resource sites.

What are some of the main challenges faced in an exploration role?

Professionals in Exploration often work in remote, sometimes harsh environments, which can present logistical and safety challenges. Managing unpredictable variables such as weather, terrain, and limited access to resources requires adaptability and preparation. Team collaboration is essential, as projects commonly involve interdisciplinary groups including geologists, engineers, and environmental scientists. You may also be required to spend extended periods away from home, depending on the project location. However, these challenges are balanced by the opportunity to make significant discoveries and contribute to resource development.

What career should I explore?

Exploration careers often include roles such as geologists, environmental scientists, or field researchers, which involve investigating natural resources, landscapes, or scientific phenomena. These jobs typically require strong analytical skills, knowledge of scientific methods, and sometimes specialized certifications or degrees. They often involve outdoor work and data collection in various environments.
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Cities with the most Exploration 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 jobs?

States with the most job openings for Exploration jobs include:

Infographic showing various Exploration job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,494 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Minerals Technologies Inc. is a global, technology-driven specialty minerals company that develops, produces, and markets a wide range of minerals and mineral-based products and services.

Our products are an essential part of everyday life for millions of people around the world. They are used in consumer goods in paper and packaging, food and pharmaceuticals, household and personal care, pet care, automotives, and many more, as well as in industrial settings like steelmaking, metalcasting, construction, infrastructure, and wastewater remediation.

We are listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol MTX, headquartered in New York City, and have over 150 locations worldwide, with ~4,000 employees in 34 countries and 12 R&D centers.

We put people at the center of everything we do -- working safely, communicating openly, and managing our resources and businesses responsibly.

Company:  American Colloid Company, a Minerals Technologies company, is well known for establishing the global standard for premium foundry-grade bentonite and green sand molding materials for the metalcasting industry since 1927.

Job Title: Exploration Driller

Location: Belle Fourche, SD

What We Offer:

  • Competitive pay, commensurate with experience
  • Health/Dental/Vision plans
  • 401k company match
  • Life Insurance
  • Short Term Disability & Long-Term Disability
  • Educational Assistance
  • Employee Assistance Plan

Job Summary

We are seeking a motivated and safety-conscious Exploration Driller to join our exploration team. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to develop their skills and grow within ACC. No prior drilling experience is required—we will provide training for the right candidate.

The Exploration Driller will operate an auger drill to support mineral exploration projects, perform equipment maintenance, and ensure safe, efficient operations. Candidates must be willing to work outdoors, travel to various project sites, and obtain a CDL (training assistance provided).

Key Responsibilities

    •    Operate an auger drill under supervision to execute exploration programs.

    •    Conduct daily equipment inspections to ensure safe and reliable operations.

    •    Perform basic maintenance and cleaning of drilling equipment.

    •    Collect and record accurate drill sample data as directed by supervisors.

    •    Adhere to all safety procedures and contribute to a culture of safety.

    •    Assist in transporting equipment to and from project sites.

    •    Support general exploration activities as needed.


Required:

    •    Commitment to safety and teamwork.

    •    Willingness to learn and operate auger drilling equipment.

    •    Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

    •    Ability to travel and stay overnight for project assignments.

    •    Willingness to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

Preferred:

    •    Mechanical aptitude or experience working with heavy equipment.

    •    Knowledge of basic safety practices in industrial settings.

What We Offer

    •    On-the-job training and skill development.

    •    Opportunities for advancement within ACC.

    •    CDL training assistance.

    •    Competitive wages and benefits package.

    •    A supportive team environment and a focus on safety and growth.

Federal Applicant Information