Geologist Open-Pit Production (Porphyry Copper)

Asarco Llc; Arizona; On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

ASARCO LLC seeks a Mine Geologist for open-pit production at the Ray Mine in Kearny, Arizona. The role focuses on ore control, pit mapping, and integrating geology with operations to support Mine-to-Mill decisions and efficient ore routing.

You will collaborate with Drill & Blast, Short-Range Planning, Operations, and Processing to optimize material classification and 3D models, while ensuring HSE standards are met.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Geological Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 2+ years of active, hands-on open-pit production geology experience in porphyry copper systems.
• Involvement in ore control and grade reconciliation on a daily basis.
• Working knowledge of sulfide/oxide transitions, heap leach behavior, and Mine-to-Mill concepts.
• Hands-on proficiency with Leapfrog Geo, Maptek Vulcan, or MinePlan.

Responsibilities

• Execute daily open-pit ore control and boundary updates; support blast hole logging and shovel operations to minimize dilution.
• Conduct pit mapping, geologic logging, and sampling focusing on lithology, structure, alteration, and mineralization.
• Collaborate with Drill & Blast, Short-Range Mine Planning, Operations, and Processing for Mine-to-Mill optimization.
• Work with LSXEW and Metallurgy to optimize heap leach material selection and acid consumption.

Skills

Geology

Ore control

Field mapping

Education

Bachelor's degree in Geology

Tools

Leapfrog Geo

Maptek Vulcan

MinePlan

Job description

Geologist Open-Pit Production (Porphyry Copper)

#1021

Kearny, Arizona, United States

Site

Ray Complex

Site Location

Kearny , Arizona , United States

ASARCO Ray Mine is seeking an enthusiastic Mine Geologist -Open-Pit Production (Porphyry Copper) to be part of a dedicated team focused on supporting copper production at a world class copper deposit. The Ray Mine Geologist plays a critical role in supporting safe and efficient ore extraction by providing accurate geological interpretation, ore boundary definition, and field validation at an autonomous haulage, high-tonnage open-pit copper mine, which processes both sulfide and oxide ores. Reporting to the Chief Mine Geologist, this position ensures that ore control decisions are informed by field observations and geological data, and that ore routing supports both Mine-to-Mill optimization and LSXEW leach material performance. The Mine Geologist is instrumental in linking and integrating geology with operations, planning, and metallurgy to drive site-wide value generation.

Key Responsibilities:

Execute daily open-pit ore control, including rapid ore/waste boundary updates, blast hole logging, and active mining shovel support to minimize dilution.

Conduct detailed pit mapping, geologic logging, and sampling focusing on lithology, structure, alteration, and mineralization for accurate material classification.

Partner closely with Drill & Blast, Short-Range Mine Planning, Operations, and Processing teams to support Mine-to-Mill optimization.

Collaborate with LSXEW and Metallurgy teams to optimize heap leach material selection, copper solubility, and acid consumption compatibility.

Assist in updating 3D operational geology models in Leapfrog Geo under the direction of the Chief Geologist.

Participate in grade reconciliation, QA/QC of sampling procedures, and data integrity reviews.

Ensure all field and documentation practices comply with site HSE standards and technical reporting standards.

Requirements

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Geological Engineering, or a related discipline.

Minimum 2+ years of active, hands-on open-pit production geology experience within operating porphyry copper systems, with demonstrated daily involvement in ore control and grade reconciliation.

Working knowledge of sulfide/oxide transitions, heap leach behavior, and Mine-to-Mill fragmentation concepts in open-pit environments.

Hands-on proficiency in operational geological and mine planning software (Leapfrog Geo, Maptek Vulcan, or MinePlan).

Strong observational skills and a proven ability to work cross-functionally in active pit and office settings.

Effective communication and technical documentation skills.

Valid driver’s license.

ASARCO LLC provides equal opportunity for all individuals without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, military status, familial status, or any other characteristic(s) protected by local, state, or federal law(s).

Candidates must possess a current and valid driver’s license. Offers of employment are contingent upon a successful criminal background check and pre-employment physical including a drug screen.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

ASARCO LLC provides equal opportunity for all individuals without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, military status, veteran status, familial status, or any other characteristic(s) protected by local, state, or federal law(s).