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Senior Exploration Geologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Exploration Geologist, Senior

Denver, CO ยท On-site +1

$110K - $130K/yr

Reporting to the Global Project Generation Manager; the Senior Exploration Geologist is part of SSR's greenfields exploration team and collaborates with other departments of the company. You will ...

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Senior Exploration Geologist information

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$13.5K

$114K

$169.5K

How much do senior exploration geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior exploration geologist in the United States is $114,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,500.00 and $137,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Senior Exploration Geologist do?

A Senior Exploration Geologist leads and manages geological exploration projects to identify and assess mineral or resource deposits. They analyze geological data, design exploration strategies, and oversee fieldwork, including drilling and sampling. In addition, they collaborate with other geoscientists, interpret results to determine resource potential, and ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Senior Exploration Geologists often play a key role in decision-making for resource development and may supervise junior geologists.

What is the difference between Senior Exploration Geologist vs Exploration Geologist?

AspectSenior Exploration GeologistExploration Geologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, extensive field experienceBachelor's or Master's in Geology or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, project management, team leadershipFieldwork, data analysis, reporting
Industry UsageUsed in mining, oil & gas, mineral exploration companiesEntry to mid-level roles in similar industries
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding senior roles, career progressionEntry-level understanding, role responsibilities

Senior Exploration Geologists typically have more experience, leadership responsibilities, and advanced credentials compared to Exploration Geologists. They often oversee projects and mentor junior staff, whereas Exploration Geologists focus on fieldwork and data collection. Both roles are essential in mineral and energy exploration industries, but the senior position involves greater responsibility and expertise.

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

To thrive as a Senior Exploration Geologist, you need in-depth knowledge of geology, mineral deposit modeling, and field mapping, typically backed by an advanced degree in geology or earth sciences and several years of industry experience. Proficiency with GIS software, geological modeling tools like Leapfrog or Micromine, and familiarity with drilling and sampling techniques are crucial. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills set top performers apart, enabling effective team management and data interpretation. These competencies are essential for identifying viable resources, guiding exploration projects, and supporting strategic business decisions.

How does a Senior Exploration Geologist typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on mineral exploration projects?

A Senior Exploration Geologist regularly works alongside geophysicists, mining engineers, environmental scientists, and field technicians to design and execute exploration programs. They coordinate data collection, interpret geological findings, and communicate results to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Effective collaboration ensures that exploration strategies align with project goals, budgets, and environmental regulations. As a senior member, the geologist often leads meetings, mentors junior staff, and integrates input from various disciplines to drive the project forward.
More about Senior Exploration Geologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Exploration Geologist jobs? Cities with the most Senior Exploration Geologist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Exploration Geologist jobs? The most popular types of Exploration Geologist jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Exploration Geologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Exploration Geologist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Senior Exploration Geologist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Exploration Geologist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Senior Exploration Geologist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 5% As Needed, 2% Full Time, 77% Part Time, 14% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,022 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

Senior Exploration Geologist

KGHM, International Ltd

Ruth, NV โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

JOB TITLE: Senior Exploration Geologist
DEPARTMENT: Technical Services
LOCATION: Robinson Mine - Ruth, NV
PAY GRADE: 7
POSITION REPORTS TO: Chief Geologist
ROTATING SHIFT: Yes No
EXEMPT NONEXEMPT Purpose & Scope of The Position:

The incumbent will work closely with a team of senior level geologists, hydrogeologist, geologic technicians, various geologic and hydrogeological contractors, as well as with a multi-talented group of mine site professionals. The position will span a wide range of responsibilities from assisting in the day-to-day management of critical drilling and dewatering programs to data entry, digitizing, sampling and sample pick up, compiling and interpreting geologic data, learning 3D mining software, geologic logging, and other duties as needed and assigned. The Robinson Mine site is fast-paced environment that requires a team-oriented individual with excellent interpersonal skills and a strong work ethic.

The Geosciences & Drilling Services Department at KGHM-Robinson is responsible for: 1) Evaluating, presenting, and drilling resource and hydrogeological targets that can add meaningful value to the company; 2) Collecting, evaluating, and reporting geologic and hydrogeological data 3) Assisting and/or managing drilling programs for the Geosciences Department, other Robinson departments, and Corporate Exploration; 4) Completing geologic models of the Robinson district; 5) Ensuring site dewatering targets are met.

Job Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Takes responsibility for aspects of occupational health and safety, and environmental matters, over which the individual has control, including adherence to all requirements applicable to Robinson.
  • Collection, compilation, and analysis of geological, hydrogeological, geophysical, and geochemical data.
  • Ensures high quality performance and confidentiality of contractors' work by providing suitable guidance and supervision.
  • Meet deadlines and ensure the completion of designated area projects within budgeted guidelines and specified timeframes.
  • Implement industry-standard protocols for quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) during all aspects of the operation.
  • Core logging and RC logging of geologic material from various mine site drilling programs.
  • Ability to develop and maintain resource grade models.
  • Ability to generate geologic interpretations suitable for resource modeling.
  • Work proficiently in a team environment with minimal supervision.
  • Develop entry level geologist for advancement within the Technical Services Department.
  • Willingness to perform other duties as necessary to ensure the success of KGHM.
  • Perform additional duties as needed to support the success of Robinson Nevada Mining Company and KGHM.
Required Qualifications:
  • Education: Bachelor's Degree in Geology or Geological Engineering, or related discipline.
  • Experience:
    • Minimum 5 years of work experience in the disciplines listed above; mining-related experience is preferred.
  • Licenses: Valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Education: A Master's degree in Geology, Geological Engineering, or Geometallurgy.
  • Experience:
    • Working knowledge of hydrogeology would be beneficial.
    • One to three years of exploration, water exploration, or drilling oversight.
    • Experience with hydrothermal copper deposits. Knowledge of intrusive centered systems.
Technical Skills & Competencies:
  • Strong work ethic.
  • Positive attitude and aptitude to accept a challenging and dynamic work environment.
  • Excellent written and communication skills.
  • Team oriented.
  • Can work safely.
  • Can work responsibly and independently.
  • Rig supervision.
  • Ability to work at high elevation (>6,000 feet).
  • Field work (pump tests, field sampling, inclement weather, steep terrain, heat).
  • Advanced competency in personal computer operation.
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office programs.
  • Ability to learn new software.
Travel Requirements:
  • Occasional around the district as exploration targets dictate.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
  • Assist with the supervision of drilling and other contractors to ensure that KGHM-Robinson's high standards of quality, safety, and environmental awareness are maintained.
Additional Requirements:
  • Successful completion of a pre-employment physical, including drug and alcohol testing.
  • Ability to meet the required physical demands, exerting 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally and/or 10 to 20 pounds of force frequently and/or up to 10 to 20 pounds of force constantly.
Employment Type: Full time