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Mineralogist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AECOM is seeking a Mineral Processing Practice Leader to drive the growth, technical excellence, and market leadership of our mineral processing business. This is a high-impact, senior leadership ...

AECOM is seeking a Mineral Processing Practice Leader to drive the growth, technical excellence, and market leadership of our mineral processing business. This is a high-impact, senior leadership ...

Utah We are looking for a Business Developer - Minerals to join our team at Innomotics. The Industry-Leader of Motors and Drives Innomotics is an industry-leading supplier of motors and large drive ...

Mineral Processing Practice Leader

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

AECOM is seeking a Mineral Processing Practice Leader to drive the growth, technical excellence, and market leadership of our mineral processing business. This is a high-impact, senior leadership ...

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Mineralogist information

What is a mineralogist?

Mineralogists are scientists who study minerals, which are naturally occurring, inorganic solids with a specific chemical composition and crystal structure. Their work involves identifying, analyzing, and classifying minerals, often using techniques such as microscopy, spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Mineralogists may work in fields like geology, environmental science, mining, or materials science, helping to locate and evaluate mineral resources or understand earth processes. They play a crucial role in discovering new minerals and understanding their properties and uses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mineralogist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mineralogist, you need a solid background in geology, chemistry, and mineral identification, typically supported by a degree in geology, earth sciences, or a related field. Familiarity with analytical tools such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopes (SEM), and specialized mineralogical software is common. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective written and verbal communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for accurately identifying minerals, conducting research, and presenting findings to support scientific and industrial applications.

Does mineralogist pay well?

Mineralogists typically earn a median annual salary that varies by experience, education, and location, with salaries often ranging from $50,000 to $90,000. Advanced roles or those in industry or research institutions may offer higher compensation, especially for specialists with strong analytical skills and knowledge of mineral identification tools like microscopes and spectrometers.

How do you become a mineralogist?

To become a mineralogist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in geology, mineralogy, or a related field, followed by a master's or Ph.D. for advanced research roles. Developing skills in mineral identification, using tools like microscopes and spectrometers, and gaining field experience are also important for this profession.

What is the difference between Mineralogist vs Geologist?

AspectMineralogistGeologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, Mineralogy, or Earth SciencesBachelor's or Master's in Geology or Earth Sciences
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, mineral collectionsField sites, research labs, exploration projects
Industry UsageMining, mineral exploration, research institutionsOil & gas, environmental consulting, natural resource exploration
Common Search/ComparisonMineralogist vs Geologist

While both mineralogists and geologists study Earth's materials, mineralogists focus specifically on minerals' properties, composition, and classification, often working in labs. Geologists have a broader scope, studying Earth's processes, rocks, and landscapes, frequently working in the field. Both roles require earth science degrees and are vital in natural resource industries, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ.

How do mineralogists typically collaborate with other scientific professionals during research projects?

Mineralogists frequently work alongside geologists, chemists, and environmental scientists to analyze mineral samples and interpret data. Collaboration often involves sharing findings, coordinating fieldwork, and integrating mineralogical data with broader geological studies. This interdisciplinary teamwork is essential, especially for projects like mining exploration or environmental assessments, where multiple areas of expertise are required to make informed decisions. Effective communication and a willingness to share knowledge are key skills for success in these collaborative environments.

How much do mineralogists make?

Mineralogists typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can increase with advanced degrees, specialized skills, and work in research or industry settings.
More about Mineralogist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Mineralogist jobs? The most popular types of Mineralogist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Mineralogist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 85% In-person, and 15% Remote job distribution.

Carlin - Mineralogist I/II/III

Barrick Gold Corporation

Carlin, NV • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Barrick Gold rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 41 rated mining


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!

We are seeking a Mineralogist to join our team at our Carlin operations. This individual will deliver highimpact mineralogical support to optimize gold processing performance, diagnose metallurgical issues, and provide clear technical guidance to operations and projects. 

At Nevada Gold Mines, 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:

  • Characterize ore, plant, and exploration samples, focusing on gold occurrence, gangue, and deleterious minerals.
  • Diagnose refractory and doublerefractory behaviors and link mineralogy to grinding, flotation, leaching, POX, roasting, and tailings performance.
  • Provide rapid plant troubleshooting using mineralogical data and recommend practical process adjustments.
  • Evaluate new ore bodies and blends, defining mineralogical response to POX, roasting, and cyanidation test work.
  • Design and oversee representative sample preparation for routine and investigative mineralogy programs.
  • Develop and apply mineral analysis methods using reflected light microscopy, XRD, SEMEDS, and automated mineralogy (MLA/QEMSCAN/TIMA).
  • Enforce data integrity, QA/QC, and adherence to laboratory methods, SOPs, and information systems.
  • Integrate mineralogical, assay, and metallurgical data to produce actionable conclusions and recommendations.
  • Prepare concise technical reports and presentations for metallurgists, geologists, engineers, and management.
  • Maintain and coordinate calibration and servicing of microscopes.
  • Collaborate closely with exploration, mine geology, processing, environmental, and regional technical teams on geometallurgy and minetomill initiatives.
  • Lead and model strong safety, health, environmental, and community practices in the lab and field.
  • Mentor and coach technicians and junior professionals in mineralogy and laboratory practice (Senior Mineralogist).
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Geology, Mineralogy, Metallurgical/Materials Engineering, or related field required; MSc/PhD in mineralogy, process mineralogy, or economic geology preferred for Senior Mineralogist (Mineralogist III)

  • Experience in a mineral processing or metallurgical laboratory, preferably in gold; 5+ years for Senior Mineralogist required 

  • Ability to work with common database, spreadsheet and word processing programs (Excel and MS Word) required

  • Experience with Labware preferred

  • Proven handson experience with reflected light microscopy and at least one of XRD, SEMEDS, or automated mineralogy; advanced multitechnique expertise expected for Senior Mineralogist required

  • Strong ore and process mineralogy skills in sulfide and gold systems, including textures, paragenesis, and alteration preferred

  • Track record of designing mineralogical programs that resolve metallurgical and operational problems preferred

  • Proficient with standard office tools and mineralogy/imagery software for SEMEDS, XRD, and automated mineralogy preferred

  • Solid understanding of lab safety, chemical handling, and QA/QC in a formal quality environment required

  • Strong organizational skills, able to manage competing priorities and work with minimal supervision in an operationsdriven setting required

  • Excellent written and verbal communication, able to influence and collaborate across technical and operational teams required

  • Ability to work in an operations focused team environment required

  • Proven safety record and ability to support work group in achievements of safety, environmental, and production goals required

  • Demonstrated ability to perform the essential functions of this position 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 AND employer match, 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.
  • Endless opportunities to grow and learn with industry colleagues.
  • Access to a variety of career opportunities across the organization.
  • Nevada Gold Mines is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Thank you for your application, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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