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Mineral Remote Sensing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mineral Remote Sensing information

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$28

$32

$36

How much do mineral remote sensing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for mineral remote sensing in the United States is $32.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.77 and $34.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is mineral remote sensing?

Mineral remote sensing is the use of satellite or aerial sensor technologies to detect, map, and analyze minerals on the Earth's surface. This method relies on analyzing the reflected and emitted electromagnetic radiation from rocks and soils to identify their mineral composition. It is widely used in mineral exploration, geological mapping, and environmental monitoring because it allows for rapid assessment of large and inaccessible areas. Advanced techniques, such as hyperspectral imaging, enable the detection of specific mineral signatures, making remote sensing a valuable tool for geologists and mining companies.

What are the typical challenges faced when interpreting remote sensing data for mineral exploration?

One common challenge in mineral remote sensing is accurately distinguishing between similar spectral signatures of different minerals, especially in areas with complex geology or vegetation cover. Additionally, atmospheric conditions and sensor limitations can introduce noise or distortions in the data, requiring careful pre-processing and validation. Collaboration with geologists and data scientists is often essential to integrate field observations and improve interpretation accuracy, making teamwork and cross-disciplinary communication valuable skills in this role.

What is the difference between Mineral Remote Sensing vs Geospatial Analyst?

AspectMineral Remote SensingGeospatial Analyst
Required CredentialsGeology, Remote Sensing certifications, GIS knowledgeGIS, Remote Sensing, Data Analysis certifications
Work EnvironmentField data collection, satellite imagery analysis, mineral explorationGIS software, mapping, spatial data analysis in various industries
Employer & Industry UsageMining companies, geological surveys, environmental agenciesGovernment agencies, consulting firms, urban planning

Mineral Remote Sensing focuses on identifying and analyzing mineral deposits using satellite imagery and remote sensing techniques, often in exploration and mining contexts. In contrast, Geospatial Analysts work with a broader range of spatial data for mapping, urban planning, and environmental management. While both roles require remote sensing and GIS skills, Mineral Remote Sensing is specialized in mineral exploration, making it more targeted for geologists and mining industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mineral Remote Sensing Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mineral Remote Sensing Specialist, you need a strong background in geology, remote sensing techniques, and geospatial analysis, typically supported by a degree in geoscience or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software (such as ArcGIS), remote sensing platforms (like ENVI or ERDAS Imagine), and satellite data interpretation is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals interpret data accurately and present findings clearly. These skills are vital for identifying mineral resources and supporting exploration projects through accurate data-driven insights.
Infographic showing various Mineral Remote Sensing job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,000 per year, or $32.7 per hour.
Exploration - Remote Sensing Lead

Exploration - Remote Sensing Lead

Barrick Gold Corporation

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Barrick Gold rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 29 rated mining


Job description

Job Description
Position Description:
Would you like to have a career with a collaborative, diverse, and dynamic mining company? We have an exciting opportunity for you!
Our vision is to be the world's most valued gold mining business by finding, developing, and operating the best assets with the best people. Our Exploration division is growing, and we are looking for a Remote Sensing Lead to join our team! The Remote Sensing Lead is responsible for designing, implementing, and advancing the use of satellite, airborne, and handheld hyperspectral data with geospatial information to support the discovery and evaluation of gold and copper deposits. This role provides technical leadership in acquisition, processing, interpretation, and integration of remote sensing datasets to identify prospective targets, reduce exploration risk, and enhance decision-making across exploration programs. Working closely with geology, geochemistry, geophysics, and field teams, the Remote Sensing Lead ensures that remote sensing insights are translated into actionable exploration decisions and strategies that accelerate target generation, optimize field campaigns, and support sustainable, cost-effective mineral exploration.
At Barrick, our vision is to be the world's most valued gold mining business by finding, developing, and operating the best assets with the best people. We are committed to a safe work environment sending every person home safe and healthy every day and leaving a sustainable legacy on our host communities.
Responsibilities:
  • Lead the strategy, selection, and application of remote sensing/hyperspectral technologies to support gold and copper exploration programs across the North American Region with a focus on gold and copper opportunities.
  • Acquire, process, and interpret multispectral, hyperspectral, radar (SAR), LiDAR, and DEM datasets for geological, structural, alteration/mineralization, till and regolith mapping.
  • Develop and implement workflows for alteration mineral mapping (e.g., white mica, phyllosilicates, iron oxides, clays, carbonates, sulfates, etc.).
  • Provide technical support in the interpretation of products derived from remote sensing and handheld tools for the evaluation of drilling targets.
  • Provide technical leadership in GIS and spatial data management, ensuring data quality, consistency, and effective visualization for exploration teams and management.
  • Support regional and district-scale prospectivity analyses to identify new opportunities and prioritize exploration portfolios.
  • Assist in fieldwork to validate hypotheses generated by predictive models
  • Guide field validation programs by translating remote sensing interpretations into actionable mapping and sampling strategies.
  • Responsible for field/hand sample hyperspectral data collection/solutions
  • Collaborate closely with regional and team geologists, geochemists, geophysicists, data scientists, and external consultants to ensure multidisciplinary integration and knowledge transfer.
  • Evaluate and implement emerging remote sensing technologies, analytics, and machine learning approaches to improve targeting efficiency and confidence.
  • Prepare technical reports, maps, and presentations that communicate results, uncertainties, and recommendations to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Mentor the exploration team, building internal capability and best practices across the region.
  • Comply with and enforce the Health and Safety System, promoting a culture of prevention based on visible, committed leadership.
  • Lead the strategy, selection, and application of remote sensing/hyperspectral technologies to support gold and copper exploration programs across the North American Region with a focus on gold and copper opportunities.
  • Acquire, process, and interpret multispectral, hyperspectral, radar (SAR), LiDAR, and DEM datasets for geological, structural, alteration/mineralization, till and regolith mapping.
  • Develop and implement workflows for alteration mineral mapping (e.g., white mica, phyllosilicates, iron oxides, clays, carbonates, sulfates, etc.).
  • Provide technical support in the interpretation of products derived from remote sensing and handheld tools for the evaluation of drilling targets.
  • Provide technical leadership in GIS and spatial data management, ensuring data quality, consistency, and effective visualization for exploration teams and management.
  • Support regional and district-scale prospectivity analyses to identify new opportunities and prioritize exploration portfolios.
  • Assist in fieldwork to validate hypotheses generated by predictive models
  • Guide field validation programs by translating remote sensing interpretations into actionable mapping and sampling strategies.
  • Responsible for field/hand sample hyperspectral data collection/solutions
  • Collaborate closely with regional and team geologists, geochemists, geophysicists, data scientists, and external consultants to ensure multidisciplinary integration and knowledge transfer.
  • Evaluate and implement emerging remote sensing technologies, analytics, and machine learning approaches to improve targeting efficiency and confidence.
  • Prepare technical reports, maps, and presentations that communicate results, uncertainties, and recommendations to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Mentor the exploration team, building internal capability and best practices across the region.
  • Comply with and enforce the Health and Safety System, promoting a culture of prevention based on visible, committed leadership.
  • Comply with and enforce the provisions of the Code of Conduct, Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption Policy, Barrick's Human Rights Policy and the provisions of the legislation, especially the established processes regarding Conflicts of Interest, links and interactions with government officials, payments to government officials/entities, Vendor Onboarding and report any situation related to non-compliance with such instruments.
  • Comply with and enforce the policies and procedures of the Environmental Management System, as well as the commitments assumed by the Company in environmental matters; ensuring a culture of care for the Environment.
  • Comply with and enforce the policies and procedures of Community Relations, promoting respectful treatment towards local communities, ensuring a Culture of Community Development.

Qualifications:
  • Academic degree(s) in Geosciences (Geology, Geophysics, Geochemistry, Geography, Cartography), Remote Sensing, Geospatial Science, Environmental Science, or related field required
  • Experience of at least 3 years[MN1] [LS2] in leveraging remote sensing and hyperspectral data sets to gold and copper exploration tasks. Analysis of remote sensing and hyperspectral data to geospatial and geological information, preferably for mineral exploration and/or mining projects preferred
  • Proven experience with remote sensing data processing and analysis required
  • Proficiency with remote sensing software and tools (e.g., ENVI, ERDAS Imagine) required
  • Familiarity with multi- and hyperspectral satellite imagery (Sentinel, Landsat, ASTER, EnMap, etc.) and spectral analysis techniques preferred
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R and geospatial analysis platforms (ArcGIS, QGIS) preferred
  • Knowledge of Machine Learning and/or application of artificial intelligence to hyperspectral data sets preferred
  • Strong understanding of image processing, data analysis, and geospatial technologies preferred
  • Experience with GIS and spatial analysis techniques required
  • Excellent analytical and communication skills required
  • Ability to work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams required
  • Alignment to Barrick DNA required
  • Orientation to continuous learning required
  • High motivation for the achievement of objectives and especially for the achievement of discoveries required
  • Strong analytical, communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration skills required
  • Travel: Availability for occasional trips to projects, based on campaign planning required

What We Can Offer You
  • A comprehensive compensation package including a competitive medical, dental, and vision plan with national provider networks, a 401k retirement plan with employer contribution, paid time off, company-sponsored medical clinics, company match share purchase program, and much more!
  • Work in a dynamic, collaborative, progressive, and high-performing team.
  • Opportunities to grow and learn with the industry colleagues are endless.
  • Access to a variety of career opportunities across the organization.
  • Barrick is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

  • #LI-JB1

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