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Optical Mineralogy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sibelco

Mineralogist

Bakersville, NC · On-site

A Master's in Mineralogy is preferred for more senior roles. • Proven experience in mineralogical analysis, including hands-on experience with various techniques such as optical microscopy, X-ray ...

Sibelco

Mineralogist

Red Hill, SC

A Master's in Mineralogy is preferred for more senior roles. Proven experience in mineralogical analysis, including hands-on experience with various techniques such as optical microscopy, X-ray ...

Sibelco

Mineralogist

Spruce Pine, AL

A Master's in Mineralogy is preferred for more senior roles. Proven experience in mineralogical analysis, including hands-on experience with various techniques such as optical microscopy, X-ray ...

Sibelco

Mechanic (Optical Sorter)

Vernon, CA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Mechanic (Optical Sorter) Location: Vernon California At Sibelco, we advance life through materials ... minerals. Our work powers progress across industries as diverse as glass, ceramics, construction ...

Sibelco

Mechanic (Optical Sorter)

Vernon, CA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Mechanic (Optical Sorter) Location: Vernon California At Sibelco, we advance life through materials ... minerals. Our work powers progress across industries as diverse as glass, ceramics, construction ...

ADVANCE TESTING CO INC

Petrographer

Campbell Hall, NY

$20.25 - $25.50/hr

Excellent rock and mineral identification skills * Experience using a polarized light microscope; knowledge of optical microscopy * Experienced with Microsoft Office Suite * Excellent written and ...

SOCOTEC

Petrographer

Campbell Hall, NY · On-site

$20.25 - $25.50/hr

Excellent rock and mineral identification skills * Experience using a polarized light microscope; knowledge of optical microscopy * Experienced with Microsoft Office Suite * Excellent written and ...

Corning

Sr Scientist, Critical Materials

Corning, NY · On-site

$87K - $119K/yr

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ... Driving innovation in critical minerals extraction, leveraging fundamental chemistry principles to ...

Sibelco

Manager Maintenance

Delavan, WI · On-site

... minerals. Our work powers progress across industries as diverse as glass, ceramics, construction ... Maintenance of pneumatic valves on optical sorting machines * Audit plant performance at completing ...

SOCOTEC

Senior Petrographer

Campbell Hall, NY · On-site

Excellent rock and mineral identification skills * Experience using a polarized light microscope; knowledge of optical microscopy * Working knowledge of ASTM standards related to petrographic and ...

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Optical Mineralogy information

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How much do optical mineralogy jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Optical Mineralogy position, and why are they important?

To excel in Optical Mineralogy, a strong background in geology, mineral identification, and petrography is typically required, often supported by a relevant degree in geosciences. Expertise with petrographic microscopes, polarized light equipment, and image analysis software is essential, and some roles may require specific laboratory safety certifications. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear written and verbal communication are highly valued in this role. These skills are crucial for accurately analyzing mineral samples and effectively conveying findings to peers or clients in academic, industrial, or environmental settings.

What is an Optical Mineralogy job?

An Optical Mineralogy job involves studying minerals using polarized light microscopy to identify and analyze their optical properties. Professionals in this field work in geology, mineral exploration, and material sciences to determine mineral composition and structure. They use techniques like thin-section analysis to identify minerals based on birefringence, pleochroism, and refractive indices. This work is crucial in fields such as petrology, mining, and environmental science. Optical mineralogists may work in laboratories, universities, or industries that require detailed mineral characterization.

What does a typical day look like for an Optical Mineralogist?

A typical day for an Optical Mineralogist involves preparing thin sections of rock or mineral samples, conducting detailed analyses using petrographic microscopes, and documenting observations. You may spend time collaborating with other geoscientists or lab technicians to interpret findings and support research or exploration projects. Some days also include recording results, preparing reports, or teaching techniques to students and colleagues. Work environments are usually a mix of laboratory and office settings, with opportunities for fieldwork depending on the employer and project demands.

More about Optical Mineralogy jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Mineralogy jobs? The most popular types of Optical Mineralogy jobs are:
What states have the most Optical Mineralogy jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Mineralogy jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optical Mineralogy jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Mineralogy jobs are:
Optical Mineralogy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Mineralogy job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 4% As Needed, 5% Full Time, 8% Temporary, 51% Contract, and 29% Nights. Highlights an 13% Physical, 86% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,592 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Mineralogist

Sibelco

Bakersville, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Mineralogist
Location:
SP Red Hill
At Sibelco, we advance life through materials.
For over 150 years, we've been a trusted leader in sourcing, transforming, and distributing specialty industrial minerals. Our work powers progress across industries as diverse as glass, ceramics, construction, coatings, polymers, and water purification. Beyond our materials, we're proud of our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and empowering people from all walks of life to thrive and make a meaningful impact.
Are We the Perfect Match?
At Sibelco, we believe building a successful career is a two-way journey. We're looking for individuals who share our values and vision, just as much as you're seeking a company that aligns with your aspirations. Together, we can shape the future.
Job Description:
Major Responsibilities:
• Mineral Identification and Analysis: Conduct examination and analysis of mineral specimens using various techniques, such as optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and EDS, to identify their composition, crystal structure, and physical properties.
• Research and Data Analysis: Perform comprehensive research on mineral properties, occurrences, and geological processes. Interpret and analyze data to draw meaningful conclusions and contribute reporting to stakeholders
• Quality Control and Assurance: Maintain high standards of accuracy and precision in all mineralogical analyses and ensure adherence to quality control protocols and safety guidelines within the laboratory environment.
• Instrumentation and Equipment Maintenance: Take responsibility for the proper functioning and maintenance of laboratory equipment, ensuring they are calibrated and serviced regularly for accurate results.
• Unit Cell Volume Calculation: Utilize X-ray diffraction data and crystallographic principles to calculate the unit cell volume of minerals, contributing to the understanding of their crystal structures and lattice parameters.
• Collaboration and Communication: Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, geologists, engineers, and other stakeholders to exchange findings, discuss research outcomes, and contribute to joint projects and initiatives.
Minimum Requirements:
• Sibelco prioritizes safety with 'Get to Zero,' our global safety improvement program. Eliminating injuries is our goal, centered on safe plants, systems, and behaviors.
• A Bachelor's degree in Geology, Mineralogy, Earth Sciences, or a related field. A Master's in Mineralogy is preferred for more senior roles.
• Proven experience in mineralogical analysis, including hands-on experience with various techniques such as optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), BET, and SEM-EDS.
• Strong understanding of crystallography, mineral chemistry, and mineral physics.
• Proficiency in scientific software and data analysis tools commonly used in mineralogical research.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail in sample collection, labeling, and documentation.
• A passion for minerals and their contribution to scientific discovery and technological advancements.
Employee Type:
Permanent
Why Join Us?
Sibelco is more than a workplace-it's a community that encourages growth, innovation, and collaboration. Here's what you can look forward to when you join our team:
  • Meet Our People: Careers
  • Learn About Our Recruitment Process: Learn More
  • Discover Our Sustainability Goals: Sibelco priorities

We also welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to providing reasonable adjustments to support you through the selection process.
How to Apply
Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter/X and Facebook to learn more about life at Sibelco. Submit your application in the Apply option.
Please note: We do not require agency services as we have a dedicated Global Talent Acquisition Team.

Apply