Environmental Geochemist (3–6 Month FTC) – Predictive Modelling

Environmental Resources Management; Brisbane; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Environmental Resources Management (ERM) Brisbane is seeking an Environmental Geochemist for a 3-6 month FTC to support complex mining, mine closure and environmental projects across Australia and internationally. Focus on predictive geochemical modelling and geochemical characterisation.

Ideal candidate combines aqueous geochemistry expertise with modelling using PHREEQC, GWB, and similar tools, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to translate results into practical client advice.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or postgraduate degree in Environmental Geochemistry or related field.
• Minimum 5+ years in environmental/mining geochemistry.
• Experience with aqueous geochemistry and water-rock interactions.
• Proficient in predictive geochemical modelling with PHREEQC or GWB.
• Experience interpreting geochemical datasets and lab testwork.
• Ability to travel and work site-based.

Responsibilities

• Develop and apply predictive geochemical models for mining and environmental applications using PHREEQC, Geochemist’s Workbench or equivalent geochemical modelling software.
• Develop geochemical conceptual models to represent interactions between water, minerals, mine wastes and geological materials.
• Undertake aqueous speciation, mineral saturation, equilibrium and kinetic reaction modelling.
• Predict mine water and seepage chemistry associated with waste rock dumps, tailings storage facilities, pits, underground workings and other mine infrastructure.
• Assess AMD, including acid generation, neutralisation, metal and metalloid mobilisation and attenuation processes.
• Interpret static and kinetic geochemical testwork, including acid-base accounting, net acid generation testing, elemental and mineralogical data, leach testing and humidity cell or column test results.
• Use laboratory, field and monitoring data to calibrate, validate and refine predictive geochemical models.
• Integrate geochemical predictions with water balance, hydrogeological and surface water assessments where required.
• Support geochemical characterisation programs and development of sampling and analytical strategies for waste rock, tailings, soils, sediments and water.
• Undertake geochemical assessments to support mine planning, waste management, environmental impact assessment, operational management, mine closure planning and rehabilitation.
• Evaluate uncertainty and sensitivity within geochemical predictions and clearly communicate limitations and assumptions.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, proposals and presentations that translate complex geochemical processes and modelling results into clear conclusions and practical recommendations.
• Work collaboratively with ERM technical specialists and project teams across Australia and internationally.
• Support the continued development of ERM’s environmental geochemistry and predictive modelling capability.

Skills

PHREEQC

Geochemist’s Workbench

Geochemistry

Data analysis

Python

R

Technical writing

Communication

Education

BSc/ MSc in Environmental Geochemistry

Geochemistry-related degree

Tools

PHREEQC

Geochemist’s Workbench

Job description

Environmental Resources Management (ERM) Brisbane is seeking an Environmental Geochemist for a 3-6 month FTC to support complex mining, mine closure and environmental projects across Australia and internationally. Focus on predictive geochemical modelling and geochemical characterisation.

Ideal candidate combines aqueous geochemistry expertise with modelling using PHREEQC, GWB, and similar tools, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to translate results into practical client advice.