Geotechnical Lab Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Mine Geologist directs day-to-day ore and waste routing for MRG's open pit mining operations, accurately classifying and dispatching mined material to the leach pad, waste dump, or stockpile. This role collects and interprets blast hole and leach pad sample data, runs grade interpolation against the block model in Micromine, and applies cut-off grade and blend logic to maximize recoverable ounces while protecting leach performance. The Mine Geologist works daily with Mine Operations, Survey, and the Metallurgy/Process team, and reports to the Geology Manager.

• Perform daily ore and waste routing for all mined material against the current dig block sequence.
• Import assay/PXRF results into Micromine and run grade interpolation against the block model.
• Apply cut-off grade and blend logic to classify ore/waste and assign material to leach pad, waste dump, or stockpile.
• QC check grade control results against the resource model for the same blocks and flag discrepancies beyond agreed tolerance.

• Collect or supervise blast hole and leach pad sampling per site protocol (spacing, depth increments, contamination control).
• Run field PXRF readings where applicable and log results against hole/sample ID, flagging holes requiring lab confirmation.
• Log lithology, oxidation state, and leachability flags (clay content, hardness, weathering) that directly affect heap leach performance and blend decisions.
• Validate blast hole/sample collar coordinates against survey pickup before finalizing sample locations.

• Input geological data into the database daily and continually monitor database accuracy.
• Update the grade control database with finalized block classifications.
• Deliver a daily production/reconciliation update to Mine Planning and Ops on tonnes/grade mined vs. plan, and any deviations.
• Track and report drill program footages via Daily Shift Reports.

• Generate drillhole plans to efficiently define ore extents and grade.
• Generate geological maps and sections to support modeling and drill planning.
• Log drillholes and sample along geological boundaries.

• Issue dig plans/ore polygons to Survey and Mine Ops for pit marking (flagging, GPS guidance for dozers/loaders).
• Communicate blend recommendations to the Metallurgy/Process team, particularly material with elevated clay or hardness likely to affect leach kinetics.
• Provide end-of-shift handover notes on outstanding sample results, pending lab turnarounds, and any pit access or geotechnical concerns.

• Place the safety, health, and wellbeing of employees and contractors as the top priority in all field activity.
• Identify and control occupational hazards; support MRG's safety programs through training and field risk assessments.
• Train and direct employees on applicable environmental permits and best management practices, and report opportunities to minimize environmental impact.

Required

• Bachelor of Science in Geology or Geological Engineering.
• 3–5 years of experience in ore/grade control within a mining operation; fully competent at this experience level.
• Working proficiency in Micromine (or comparable software such as Vulcan or Leapfrog).
• Working knowledge of PXRF field analysis and grade interpolation techniques.
• Ability to work and live onsite at a remote mining operation.

Preferred

• Master's degree in Geology.
• Heap leach or oxide gold experience, including leachability logging (clay content, hardness, weathering).
• Experience interfacing directly with metallurgy/process teams on blend recommendations.

• Ability to traverse rugged, uneven mine site terrain, including inclines and unpaved surfaces.
• Exposure to outdoor conditions, including extreme heat, cold, and dust.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs (sampling equipment, PXRF unit).
• Comfortable wearing required PPE for extended periods.
• Valid driver's license required for daily pit and leach pad access.

This role is predominantly field-based, working directly on the leach pad and in active pit areas alongside Mine Operations, with database and reporting work completed in the site geology office. The Mine Geologist interfaces daily with Mine Operations and Survey, and regularly with the Metallurgy/Process team and the Geology Manager.

The employee may be required to perform other related duties as assigned to meet ongoing operational needs.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a post-offer background screening, medical exam, and drug/alcohol screening verifying the candidate's ability to safely perform the essential functions of the position.

Mineral Ridge Gold is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This job description does not constitute a contract of employment and may be revised at any time.