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Mining Exploration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Orla Mining Ltd

Exploration Manager

Elko, NV · On-site

Orla Mining is striving to be the emerging gold producer of choice with a geographically diversified asset base, a prospective development and exploration portfolio, an experienced management team ...

Orla Mining Ltd

Exploration Manager

Elko, NV

Orla Mining is striving to be the emerging gold producer of choice with a geographically diversified asset base, a prospective development and exploration portfolio, an experienced management team ...

SSR Mining, Inc.

Exploration Geologist

Valmy, NV

SSR Mining Inc. is an intermediate gold company with five producing assets located in the USA ... The Exploration Geologist is a salaried, exempt position and typically works a four-day workweek on ...

Equinox Gold USA

Equinox Gold is a growth-focused Canadian mining company operation entirely in the Americas, with ... Reporting to Senior Geologist, the Exploration Geologist will support resource growth and ...

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$33K

$89.2K

$142K

How much do mining exploration jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for mining exploration in the United States is $89,183.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel in Mining Exploration, a solid background in geology or earth sciences, often supported by a relevant degree and fieldwork experience, is essential. Familiarity with GIS software, geophysical survey tools, and drilling equipment is typically required, along with certifications like First Aid and safety training. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills help professionals adapt to challenging environments and collaborate effectively. These competencies ensure accurate resource identification, efficient project execution, and safety in remote and demanding field conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in mining exploration, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in mining exploration often face challenges such as working in remote or harsh environments, navigating complex regulatory requirements, and dealing with unpredictable geological conditions. To address these, teams typically undergo extensive safety and logistical training, maintain close communication with local authorities and stakeholders, and use advanced technology for data collection and analysis. Collaboration with geologists, engineers, and environmental scientists is essential to overcome obstacles and ensure efficient, responsible exploration.

What is mining exploration?

Mining exploration is the process of searching for commercially viable mineral deposits in the earth. It involves a range of activities including geological surveys, sampling, mapping, and drilling to identify and evaluate the presence, quantity, and quality of minerals. The goal is to find new resources that can be mined profitably, while minimizing environmental impact and adhering to safety regulations. Mining exploration is often the first step in the mining lifecycle and is crucial for the development of new mines.

What is the difference between Mining Exploration vs Geologist?

AspectMining ExplorationGeologist
Required CredentialsMining or Geology degree, certifications in exploration techniquesGeology degree, often with specialization in mineralogy or petrology
Work EnvironmentFieldwork at exploration sites, often remote and outdoorField and laboratory work, research, and analysis
Industry UsagePrimarily in mineral exploration companies and mining firmsWide industry use including environmental, academic, and resource sectors

Mining Exploration focuses on discovering new mineral deposits through field surveys and sampling, often working in remote outdoor locations. Geologists analyze earth materials and interpret geological data, working in both field and lab settings. While both roles require geology-related credentials, Mining Exploration is more specialized towards locating mineral resources, whereas Geologists have broader applications across various earth science fields.

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Mining Exploration jobs near you

Exploration Manager

Orla Mining Ltd

Elko, NV • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Orla Mining is striving to be the emerging gold producer of choice with a geographically diversified asset base, a prospective development and exploration portfolio, an experienced management team with a successful track record, and a high-quality board and shareholder base.
Orla is advancing permitting and development on our South Railroad Project, a feasibility-stage, open-pit heap leach project located on the prolific Carlin trend in Nevada. This project is part our larger South Carlin Complex which includes a prospective land package. We also operate the Camino Rojo Oxide Gold Mine, a gold and silver open-pit heap leach mine, located in Zacatecas State, Central Mexico. This low-cost operation is 100% owned by Orla, covers over 139,000 hectares, and includes a large sulphide mineral endowment located beneath the oxide resources. Orla also operates the Musselwhite Mine located in Northern Ontario, a gold mine with more than 25 years of operating history and the potential to expand resources and mine life for years to come.
Orla is building a legacy of excellence, respect and sustainable value through responsible gold mining. We work to create a net positive benefit for all and leaving a legacy beyond the life of our mines. We do this through building and operating high quality mines supported and led by an experienced team. We are custodians of the assets we run and the environments in which we operate, and we are committed to fostering a culture of excellence, care, and respect.
As we continue to grow, we are seeking an Exploration Manger to join our team. The purpose of this role is to lead all exploration activities at Orla's Nevada properties with focus on the South Railroad project, efficiently managing all near-existing deposits and regional exploration team activities.
Responsibilities include:
  • Ensure that all administrative matters, including labor, safety, environmental and legal compliance is reported to the site or country management and country, and company regulations are followed.
  • Work closely with Orla's SVP Exploration and Corporate Exploration team to develop and optimize exploration programs to effectively define and test as a priority South Railroad Project near-mine and regional exploration targets and grow gold resources to extend the projected mine life.
  • Contribute to and oversee target generation, assessment, and global project pipeline management.
  • Design, assess, plan, and prioritize exploration targets at various stages to directly impact programs in real-time through active and proactive participation in exploration programs.
  • Contribute to drill planning for resource discovery, growth, and drill program optimization.
  • Ensure optimal use of all data to advance quality geological interpretations and support exploration decision-making.
  • Ensure QA/QC programs and procedures are implemented on all exploration programs and surveys; QA/QC data is reviewed, and any issues are identified and corrected.
  • Assist mine operations with the integration of near-mine data with mine operations.
  • Keep all stakeholders informed of work progress, issues, and results including the site General Manager and SVP Exploration.
  • Define team and individual exploration objectives to contribute to the global exploration and Orla's objectives.
  • Establish and structure a strong, balanced exploration team at the site by attracting, developing and retaining key exploration team members.
  • Assess, continue developing, and reinforcing South Railroad exploration team through mentorship and training opportunities.
  • Coordinate with site Health & Safety to identify and correct any hazards that could lead to an accident or incident.
  • Identify, review, assess, and highlight corporate development opportunities which may present growth opportunities for Orla Mining.

Qualifications:
  • Certified Professional Geologist (CPG) with American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG) or registered member of Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME) preferred.
  • Minimum of five (5) years of experience in Exploration Management roles within the mining industry.
  • Exploration experience across Nevada and the Western United States.
  • Extensive hands-on experience planning and managing large-scale exploration programs, including multiple drill rigs, site-specific safety protocols, and emergency response plans.
  • Minimum of ten (10) years of experience leading and managing exploration teams.
  • At least ten (10) years of experience with Carlin-type, epithermal gold-silver, and other deposit types.
  • Broad experience ranging from early-stage (greenfields) exploration to advanced-stage operations.
  • Experience in both near-mine and regional exploration.
  • Strong understanding of QA/QC principles, including implementation and data analysis.
  • Excellent communication, leadership, organizational, and team-building skills.
  • Proven ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple responsibilities, and meet deadlines.
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States for any employer.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license.

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