Geologist

Sawtooth Mining, LLC; United States; On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Sawtooth Mining is seeking a technically skilled Geologist to join our growing technical team at the Thacker Pass Lithium Clay Surface Mine as we prepare for first ore and transition from a greenfield project to an operating mine.

This role focuses on planning and leading ore‑control drilling, collecting, analyzing, and interpreting results for integration into short‑range models while emphasizing QA/QC and reconciliation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Geology with 5–10 years of experience in exploration drilling, geological block modeling, and ore control at a surface mining operation.
• Master’s degree in Geology and Professional Geologist designation are preferred.
• Candidate should be qualified as a Qualified Person under the SEC SK‑1300 and Canadian 43‑101 regulations.

Responsibilities

• Interpret geologic data and provide geologic structure and assay information and assessments.
• Monitor state and federal drilling permit requirements and protection of reserves.
• Supervise contractors during geologic drilling and other related projects.
• Collect and analyze geotechnical data.
• Maintain geologic files, QA/QC data, databases, and samples.
• Update and maintain the short-range geological, structural, and block models for use in short-range mine planning.
• Lead and support Ore Control efforts to ensure ore is being mined efficiently and reconciliation is tracked correctly.
• Perform all duties in accordance with MSHA regulations, state and federal requirements, and company policies.
• Promote and maintain a strong safety‑first culture.

Skills

Geology expertise

QA/QC

Ore control

Data interpretation

MSHA compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Geology

Master's degree in Geology (preferred)

Professional Geologist designation (PG)

SEC SK-1300 / 43-101 eligibility

Willing to relocate to Winnemucca, NV

Tools

Geobank

Vulcan

Fleet Management System

Job description

Job Summary

Sawtooth Mining is seeking a technically skilled Geologist to join our growing technical team at the Thacker Pass Lithium Clay Surface Mine as we prepare for first ore and transition from a greenfield project to an operating mine. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in one of North America’s most significant lithium projects and contribute directly to the future of critical mineral production. The successful candidate will be responsible for planning and leading ore-control drilling, collecting, analyzing, and interpreting drilling results for integration into short-range geological, structural, and assay block models. The Geologist will focus on QA/QC processes and lead the ore control workflow and reconciliation tracking, reporting to the Principal Geologist, and collaborating closely with mining operations, environmental teams, contractors, and technical personnel across the site.

Location

Thacker Pass Project, Orovada, NV.

Essential Duties

• Interpret geologic data and provide geologic structure and assay information and assessments.
• Monitor state and federal drilling permit requirements and protection of reserves.
• Supervise contractors during geologic drilling and other related projects.
• Collect and analyze geotechnical data.
• Maintain geologic files, QA/QC data, databases, and samples.
• Complete special technical studies as assigned.
• Update and maintain the short-range geological, structural, and block models for use in short-range mine planning.
• Lead and support Ore Control efforts to ensure ore is being mined efficiently and reconciliation is tracked correctly.
• Perform all duties in accordance with MSHA regulations, state and federal requirements, and company policies.
• Promote and maintain a strong safety‑first culture.
• Support environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance initiatives.

Other Duties

• Assist with other teams on various mining‑related projects.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Some travel will be required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledgeable in sedimentary and lithium geology, geochemistry, and hydrology.
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office, Geobank Database software, and Maptek’s Vulcan block modeling software.
• Knowledge of Fleet Management System reporting is a plus.
• Strong written and interpersonal communication skills are required.
• Strong technical writing and presentation skills are required.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate and work in a team environment.
• Strong critical thinking skills are required.

Education, Training, and Experience

• At a minimum, a Bachelor’s degree in Geology with 5‑10 years of experience in exploration drilling, geological block modeling, and ore control at a surface mining operation.
• Preference given to those with a Master’s degree in Geology, Professional Geologist designation, and those currently qualified as a Qualified Person under the SEC’s SK‑1300 and Canadian 43‑101 regulations.
• Candidate should be based in or willing to relocate to Winnemucca, Nevada (relocation assistance provided).

Physical Demands

Intermittently: None. Occasionally (0 – 1/3 of workday): kneeling/crouching, pushing/pulling light equipment, reaching above/below shoulder, riding in heavy equipment, entering/exiting equipment, working at heights, bending/stooping, lifting up to 30‑40 pounds, carrying PPE kits, survey gear, laptops, climbing, standing. Frequently (1/3 – 2/3 of workday): navigation of active mining areas, walking on uneven ground, driving light vehicles for long distances, sitting during engineering design, scheduling, reporting, and using software. Constantly (2/3 – 3/3 of workday): fine‑motor skills (typing, instruments), vision, hearing, communication, depth perception, situational awareness.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and we do not discriminate. You must meet at least the specific minimum requirements listed above to be considered a qualified applicant.