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Senior Geologist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

UG Chief Surveyor

Nevada, IA · On-site

$95 - $130/hr

Deliver timely updates to mine engineering, geology, and operations, including 3D models, maps, and ... a senior or lead role * Experience in long-hole stoping environments strongly preferred

Showing results 21-29

Senior Geologist information

See Iowa salary details

$12.7K

$107.1K

$159.2K

How much do senior geologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior geologist in Iowa is $107,097.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,900.00 and $128,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior geologist do?

As a senior geologist, your responsibilities are to oversee geological operations and site investigations where you and your team collect samples, locate mineral or natural resource deposits, and assess the geological stability or characteristics of a site. Other tasks include testing and analyzing samples and developing action plans based on your findings. Geologists work in numerous fields, including mining, petroleum or natural gas exploration, construction, and government. Your duties may differ depending on the industry in which you work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior geologist?

To thrive as a Senior Geologist, you need strong expertise in geological mapping, data analysis, and field investigation, typically supported by an advanced degree in geology or earth sciences and several years of industry experience. Familiarity with GIS software, modeling tools, and data management systems, as well as certifications like Professional Geologist (PG), are commonly required. Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help manage teams and convey complex information to stakeholders. These competencies ensure the accurate interpretation of geological data, effective project management, and informed decision-making in exploration or environmental projects.

What are the main challenges a senior geologist faces when managing field teams and projects?

Senior Geologists often juggle multiple projects simultaneously, which requires strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively. A significant challenge is coordinating diverse field teams, often working in remote or challenging environments, to ensure safety and data accuracy. Additionally, they must adapt to evolving project scopes and regulatory requirements, all while mentoring junior staff and maintaining clear communication across multidisciplinary teams. Proactive problem-solving and flexibility are essential to overcome these hurdles and deliver successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Senior Geologist vs Geoscientist?

AspectSenior GeologistGeoscientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geology, extensive field experienceBachelor's or higher in Geoscience or related field, often entry to mid-level
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, site assessments, data analysisResearch, data interpretation, laboratory work
Industry UsageMining, oil & gas, environmental consultingResearch institutions, government agencies, energy companies

Senior Geologists typically have more field experience and take on leadership roles in exploration and site assessment projects. Geoscientists often focus on research, data analysis, and supporting exploration efforts. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Senior Geologists usually have more practical experience and responsibilities in project management.

Is a career in senior geologist worth it?

A career as a senior geologist offers opportunities in resource exploration, environmental assessment, and consulting, often requiring strong analytical skills and knowledge of geological tools. It can be financially rewarding and provide job stability, especially with relevant experience and certifications such as a Professional Geologist license.

Is there a high demand for senior geologists?

The demand for senior geologists remains strong due to ongoing needs in natural resource exploration, environmental assessment, and infrastructure projects. Employment opportunities are often influenced by industry activity, commodity prices, and environmental regulations, with experienced geologists valued for their expertise and leadership in fieldwork and data analysis.

What are the most commonly searched types of Geologist jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Geologist jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Geologist jobs in Iowa?

For Senior Geologist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Geologist jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Geologist jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Senior Geologist jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Senior Geologist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Geologist jobs in IA?

For Senior Geologist jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Senior Geologist job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,097 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

NGM - Drilling Superintendent, Grade Control (Nevada)

Barrick Gold Corporation

Nevada, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 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

NV, United States

Job Description Position Description:

Nevada Gold Mines is seeking an experienced and results-driven Drilling Superintendent, Grade Control to provide strategic leadership, technical expertise, and operational oversight for Grade Control Drilling Services across NGM. This role is critical to maximizing ore recovery, supporting production objectives, and driving operational efficiencies through best-in-class drilling practices, innovation, and continuous improvement.

This position oversees regional drilling priorities, contractor performance, and service delivery while championing the adoption of new technologies, equipment, drilling fluids, and operational practices that enhance safety, productivity, and data quality.

The role also ensures alignment with corporate governance frameworks, regulatory requirements, environmental standards, and responsible mining principles to safeguard Nevada Gold Mines' long-term license to operate and reputation as an industry leader.

Working collaboratively with Geology, Mine Operations, Technical Services, and external partners, the Drilling Manager, Grade Control will foster a culture of operational excellence, innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement across all drilling activities.

At NGM, 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 planning, execution, and optimization of grade control and drilling programs, ensuring technical excellence, data quality, and adherence to company standards.

Develop and recommend drilling strategies, technologies, and operational improvements to enhance resource definition, orebody knowledge, safety, and cost efficiency.

Oversee drilling priorities, contractor performance, and program execution to ensure alignment with operational needs, budgets, regulatory requirements, and corporate frameworks.

Ensure the accurate collection, validation, and management of geological and drilling data to support mine planning and production decisions.

Monitor drilling program performance, budgets, and key metrics, providing timely and accurate reports, forecasts, and recommendations to senior leadership team.

Drive continuous improvement, innovation, and knowledge sharing through the evaluation and implementation of new drilling technologies, equipment, and practices.

Foster a culture of responsible mining, ethical conduct, environmental stewardship, and sustainability while maintaining Barrick's social license to operate.

Ensure compliance with environmental, health, safety, and risk management requirements, including incident reporting, investigations, corrective actions, and workforce training.

Maintain and improve operational procedures, management systems, and governance documents related to drilling and grade control activities.

Lead by example in promoting safe work practices and ensuring all activities are executed in accordance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and operational standards.

Perform other duties as assigned in support of site and organizational objectives.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

At least 12 years of experience in drilling management required

At least 7 years of experience in managing drilling crews required

Experience in grade control drilling required

Experience managing drilling contractors across exploration and operational settings

International experience preferred

Understanding of production planning processes and the integration of drilling schedules preferred

Maintains current knowledge of drilling technologies, grade control practices, and industry developments required

Ability to coordinate drilling activities to meet production and mine planning requirements required

Understanding of drillhole accuracy, sample integrity, and QA/QC requirements required

Experience managing drilling operations in active mining environments required

Driver's License required

Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate operational risks associated with drilling activities required

Lead and mentor drilling teams to achieve safe and efficient operational performance required

Carry out all duties and responsibilities safely and responsibly, taking all reasonable precautions to protect your own health and safety and that of others required

Experience managing drilling budgets and controlling operating costs required

Ability to monitor drilling productivity and identify opportunities for cost reduction and operational improvement required

Experience managing drilling consumables, inventory, and critical spare parts required

Ability to forecast stock requirements to ensure continuity of drilling operations required

Knowledge of equipment maintenance planning and asset utilization required

Experience coordinating logistics for drilling equipment and consumables 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

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