Geologic Technician / Core Cutter

Blue Moon Metals Inc.; California; On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Keystone Mines Inc. based in California is seeking a Geologic Technician / Core Cutter to safely process diamond drill core, label and sample, and keep the core facility organized. You will support Exploration and Geology teams and ensure accurate documentation.

The role requires safety focus, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a physically demanding mining environment; occasional field work may occur.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Familiarity with diamond drill core handling and sampling procedures.
• Ability to safely perform physical work, including lifting and moving core boxes.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Basic computer skills for data entry and sample tracking.

Responsibilities

• Core Processing & Sampling: cut diamond drill core, label, bag, and prepare samples.
• Maintain sample integrity and documentation; photo core and assist with layout.
• Ensure proper handling, storage, and security of drill core.
• Geological Support: assist with core handling and logging preparation.
• Record basic geological measurements and observations; support QA/QC programs.
• Assist with core recovery tracking and reconciliation of samples.
• Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance: follow safety requirements and inspections.
• General Duties: maintain equipment, manage inventory, and collaborate with team.

Skills

Physical stamina

Attention to detail

Data entry

Following instructions

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Post-secondary education in Geology or Earth Sciences

Tools

Geological databases

Logging software

Core photography systems

Job description

Position Summary

Based at our facility in Mariposa, California the Geologic Technician / Core Cutter supports the Exploration and Geology teams by safely processing diamond drill core and assisting with geological data. This position is responsible for core cutting, sampling, labeling, and maintaining a safe, organized core facility.

The role requires a strong commitment to safety, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a physically demanding mining and exploration environment.

Key Responsibilities

Core Processing & Sampling

• Cut diamond drill core using core saws in accordance with geologist instructions and sampling protocols
• Label, bag, and prepare samples for shipment following chain-of-custody and QA/QC requirements
• Maintain sample integrity and accurate documentation
• Photograph core and assist with core layout, orientation, and archiving
• Ensure proper handling, storage, and security of drill core

Geological Support

• Assist geologists with core handling, logging preparation, and sample selection
• Record basic geological measurements and observations as directed
• Support QA/QC programs including blanks, standards, and duplicates
• Assist with core recovery tracking and reconciliation of samples

Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance

• Work in compliance with Cal/OSHA, MSHA (where applicable), and site-specific safety requirements
• Perform pre-operational inspections of core saws and equipment
• Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free core shack or facility
• Use required PPE at all times (eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, etc.)
• Immediately report hazards, near misses, and incidents

General Duties

• Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of core saws and related equipment
• Assist with inventory management of sampling supplies and consumables
• Support other exploration or geology-related tasks as assigned
• Work collaboratively with geologists, drillers, and contractors

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver’s license
• Familiarity with diamond drill core handling and sampling procedures
• Ability to safely perform physical work, including lifting and moving core boxes
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Basic computer skills for data entry and sample tracking

Preferred Qualifications

• Post-secondary education in Geology, Earth Sciences, or a related field
• Experience as a core cutter, geologic technician, or exploration laborer
• Cal/OSHA/MSHA safety training, First Aid/CPR
• Experience with geological databases, logging software, or core photography systems

Work Environment

• Work will occur in a core facility but may require field work or travel to an underground mine site.
• Exposure to water, dust, noise, vibration, and varying temperatures
• Shift work, weekends, or rotational schedules may be required

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Ability to stand, bend, kneel, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods
• Ability to work safely around industrial equipment

Compensation

The pay range for this position will be $20.00 - 25.00 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience. This position is non-exempt and eligible for overtime.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Keystone Mines Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable California employment laws. We are committed to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and respectful workplace.