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Full Time Optical Mineralogy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Petrographer

Campbell Hall, NY · On-site

$20.25 - $25.50/hr

Advance Testing Company, Inc. is currently seeking a full-time Petrographer in our on-site ... mineral identification skills * Experience using a polarized light microscope; knowledge of optical ...

Industrial Employment Type: Full Time Position Overview Kiewit is seeking experienced Fiber Field ... Our work spans multiple sectors, including data centers, mineral processing, energy and water, with ...

Industrial Employment Type: Full Time Position Overview Kiewit is seeking an experienced Fiber ... Our work spans multiple sectors, including data centers, mineral processing, energy and water, with ...

Industrial Employment Type: Full Time Position Overview Kiewit is seeking an experienced ... Our work spans multiple sectors, including data centers, mineral processing, energy and water, with ...

Full Time Optical Mineralogy information

See salary details

$11

$21

$37

How much do full time optical mineralogy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time optical mineralogy in the United States is $21.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in full-time optical mineralogy roles?

Full-time optical mineralogists often encounter challenges such as accurately identifying minerals with similar optical properties and managing a high volume of thin section analyses within tight deadlines. Staying up-to-date with advances in polarizing microscope technology and digital imaging is also essential. Additionally, collaborating effectively with geologists, petrologists, and materials scientists is key to ensuring that mineralogical data is integrated smoothly into broader research or industrial projects. Adapting to evolving sample preparation techniques and maintaining meticulous records are also important aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Full Time Optical Mineralogy vs Full Time Petrographic Technician?

AspectFull Time Optical MineralogyFull Time Petrographic Technician
CredentialsGeology or Earth Science degree, mineralogy certificationsGeology or Earth Science degree, petrography training
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, field sampling, mineral identificationLaboratory, thin section analysis, microscopy
Industry UsageMining, mineral exploration, geology labsPetroleum, mining, geological research

Both roles involve laboratory work and require geology-related credentials. Full Time Optical Mineralogy focuses on identifying minerals using optical techniques, while Full Time Petrographic Technicians analyze thin sections of rocks under microscopes. They share similar work environments and industry applications, but their specific tasks differ based on mineral identification versus rock analysis.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Optical Mineralogist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Optical Mineralogist, you need a solid background in geology or earth sciences, with specialized knowledge in mineral identification and crystallography, typically supported by at least a bachelor’s or master’s degree in geology or a related field. Familiarity with petrographic microscopes, polarized light microscopy, and relevant analytical software is crucial for analyzing mineral samples. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective written communication help professionals document findings and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure accurate mineral analysis and interpretation, which are vital for research, resource exploration, and industrial applications.

What is a Full Time Optical Mineralogist?

A Full Time Optical Mineralogist is a professional who studies minerals using optical methods, primarily through the examination of thin sections under a polarizing light microscope. Their work involves identifying minerals, analyzing their optical properties, and interpreting geological histories based on mineral assemblages. These specialists often work in academic, research, or industrial settings, contributing to fields such as geology, materials science, and mining. Full-time employment in this role typically involves conducting laboratory analyses, maintaining equipment, and sometimes teaching or training others in optical mineralogy techniques.
More about Full Time Optical Mineralogy jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Mineralogy jobs? The most popular types of Optical Mineralogy jobs are:
Infographic showing various Full Time Optical Mineralogy job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,592 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Mining/Heavy Equipment Operator

CR Minerals Company LLC

Espanola, NM • On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Description:

**!! HABLAMOS ESPANOL!!**
APPLY TODAY!! APLICE AHORA,

CR Minerals is seeking hard working, dependable individuals looking to start a career as a full time Screening Plant/Heavy Equipment Operator.
**CR Minerals está buscando personas confiables y que trabajen arduamente para comenzar una carrera como Operador de planta de cribado/equipo pesado a tiempo completo.**

Job Description Applicant must have at least 2 Years of experience in Screening Plant and Heavy Equipment Operation or must be able to prove his or her knowledge and ability to perform the following.
**Descripción del trabajo El solicitante debe tener al menos 2 años de experiencia en la operación de plantas de cribado y equipos pesados ??o debe poder demostrar su conocimiento y capacidad para realizar lo siguiente.**

Duties include but are not limited to:
**Los deberes incluyen, pero no se limitan a:**

1. Aggregate Screening Operations as needed
**1. Operaciones de detección agregadas según sea necesario**

2. Operate Loaders, Dump Trucks and Bull Dozers.
**2. Operar cargadores, volquetes y bulldozers.**

3. Perform maintenance as needed on conveyance equipment such as Belt Conveyors, and Screening Equipment.
**3. Realice el mantenimiento según sea necesario en el equipo de transporte, como cintas transportadoras y equipos de cribado.**

4. Must have the knowledge and ability necessary to perform routine maintenance work on heavy equipment, such as oil changes and other regular necessary maintenance.
**4. Debe tener el conocimiento y la habilidad necesarios para realizar trabajos de mantenimiento de rutina en equipos pesados, como cambios de aceite y otros mantenimientos periódicos necesarios.**

Requirements:

Ability to operate forklifts and man lifts is a big plus.
**La capacidad de operar montacargas y elevadores de personas es una gran ventaja.**

Successful passing of Drug Screen and fit for duty physical is required for initial employment.
**Se requiere pasar con éxito la prueba de detección de drogas y un examen físico apto para el trabajo para el empleo inicial.**

Additionally, CR Minerals has a “zero tolerance policy” and enforces random drug screens. This is an MSHA regulated facility and Safety is our priority. All required safety training will be provided prior to starting work.

Starting Pay for qualified individuals is $18.00 - $23.00 per hour. A Clothing allowance, Vacation pay, 401K Plan, and Health, Dental and Optical Insurance are available. Interested applicants should call CR Mineral's Co., LLC at 505 428 2940 for directions to facility located just northwest of Espanola NM to apply in person.
**El pago inicial para personas calificadas es de $18.00 a $23.00 por hora. Se encuentran disponibles un subsidio para ropa, pago de vacaciones, plan 401K y seguro de salud, dental y óptico. Los solicitantes interesados ??deben llamar a CR Mineral's Co., LLC al 505 428 2940 para obtener instrucciones sobre cómo llegar a las instalaciones ubicadas justo al noroeste de Española NM para presentar la solicitud en persona.**

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $18.00 - $23.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • Day shift

Supplemental pay types:

  • Bonus pay

Experience:

  • Loader operation: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Dozer: 1 year (Preferred)