Geologist II

Freeport-McMoRan; Bayard (NM); On-site; USD 87,500 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision

401(k) with employer match

Paid time off

Tuition assistance

Employee Assistance Program

Discounted insurance plans

Job summary

Freeport-McMoRan is seeking a Geologist to join the Chino operation in southwestern New Mexico. You will log drill samples, build resource models, conduct geologic mapping, and provide guidance on local, state, and federal regulations.

Collaboration with a geology team and metallurgists is essential as you develop drilling programs and budgets. Required are a Bachelor’s degree in Geology (or related field) with 3 years of experience, or a Master’s degree with 1 year of experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Geology or related scientific discipline with 3 years of geology experience, OR Master’s degree with 1 year of geology experience.
• Experience in logging drill samples and building geology models.
• Strong ability to interpret geological data and communicate findings clearly.

Responsibilities

• Log drill samples and complete resource block models.
• Conduct geologic mapping and integrate data into maps and cross sections.
• Supervise drilling and sample preparation contractors.
• Work with metallurgists to provide samples for processing testing.
• Develop drilling programs, short-range plans, and budgets for exploration.

Skills

Geology knowledge

Technical reporting

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Geology

Master’s degree in Geology

Job description

Where You Will Work

Chino is an open‑pit copper mining complex located 15 miles from the historic mining community of Silver City in southwestern New Mexico. The historic Chino mine was among the world’s first low‑grade, open‑pit copper mines. Today, the operation consists of a 36,000‑metric‑ton‑per‑day concentrator that produces copper and a 150‑million‑pound‑per‑year solvent extraction/electrowinning plant that produces copper cathode from solution generated by run‑of‑mine leaching. The community of Silver City boasts various restaurants, arts, entertainment, cliff dwellings, festivals and much more. Residents and visitors enjoy gentle four seasons, with three hundred days of sunshine a year and low humidity. From unique shopping finds in the galleries to everyday groceries, schools and housing, there are numerous amenities for everyone.

What You Will Do

• Complete logging of drill samples, complete resource block models, conduct geologic mapping, provide technical expertise, guidance and leadership in geological exploration and resource modeling.
• Perform logging of core and reverse circulation drill cuttings.
• Integrate and interpret all geological data (e.g., rock type, alteration, structure), assay, and mineralogical data into geologic maps and internally consistent cross sections and level plans.
• Work with a team of Geologists in the completion of computerized resource block models that meet corporate modeling standards.
• Prepare and update drill hole database, maps of deposits and other exploration records.
• Supervise and direct drilling, road construction and drill sample preparation contractors.
• Work with Metallurgists to provide samples for processing testing and evaluation and in the development of ore types.
• Perform geologic mapping of surface and underground areas.
• Assist in the development of drilling programs, formulation of short‑range plans and budget preparation for geological exploration and evaluation at assigned site.
• Provide guidance and counsel to the site management team on applicable programs, practices and existing/proposed local, state and federal regulations. Maintain current working knowledge of applicable Federal, State and local regulations.
• Perform other duties as required.

What You Bring To Freeport

• Bachelor’s degree in Geology or related scientific discipline and three (3) years experience in geology or related scientific field, OR
• Master’s degree in Geology and one (1) year experience in geology or related scientific field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to correctly identify and accurately estimate relative proportions and textural characteristics of metal‑bearing and gangue minerals in a production setting.
• Creative problem‑solving skills.
• Knowledge of the principles and methods used in complex geological analyses.
• Skill in effective communication, both verbal and written.
• Ability to research and analyze information of considerable difficulty and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to develop and maintain awareness of occupational hazards and safety precautions.
• Skilled in following safety practices and recognizing hazards.

What We Offer You

The estimated annual pay range for this role is currently $87,500‑$120,000. This range reflects base salary only and does not include bonus payments, benefits or retirement contributions. Actual base pay is determined by experience, qualifications, skills and other job‑related factors. This role is eligible for additional discretionary and incentive payment considerations based on company and individual performance. More details will be shared during the hiring process.

• Affordable medical, dental and vision benefits
• Company‑paid life and disability insurance
• 401(k) plan with employer contribution/match
• Paid time off, paid sick time, holiday pay, parental leave
• Tuition assistance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Discounted insurance plans for pet, auto, home and vehicle
• Internal progression opportunities
• Learn more about our competitive and comprehensive benefits package.

What We Require

• Candidates may be required to pass a medical exam.
• Candidates must pass all required training and/or testing.
• Employees may be required to work a non‑standard schedule, which may include shift work (other than day shift) at a 24/7, 365‑day operation.
• Freeport‑McMoRan promotes a drug/alcohol‑free work environment using mandatory pre‑employment drug testing and on‑going drug and alcohol testing, as allowed by applicable laws.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Please be advised that Freeport‑McMoRan will never request payment for job‑related expenses from applicants. If you receive any suspicious emails, please disregard them, and report the incident to [e-mail].