Mine Geologist

ASARCO; Kearny (AZ); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

ASARCO LLC is seeking a Mine Geologist to support safe, efficient ore extraction at the Ray Mine. You will provide geological interpretation, define ore boundaries, and validate field data to optimize Mine-to-Mill and leach material performance.

You will collaborate with Operations, Drilling & Blast, and Metallurgy to refine geology-driven plans, update 3D models, and contribute to grade reconciliation and reporting in meetings. A valid driver’s license is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Geology or related field.
• 2+ years of open-pit mine geology experience.
• Experience with ore control methods and field validation.
• Proficiency with Leapfrog Geo, MinePlan, or Vulcan.
• Valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Conduct pit mapping, geologic logging, and sampling focusing on lithology, structure, alteration, and mineralization.
• Define and update ore control polygons and ore/waste boundaries for proper routing to mill, leach pad, or stockpiles.
• Support Mine-to-Mill initiatives by identifying rock characteristics affecting fragmentation and plant throughput, and communicate findings to Drill & Blast and Processing teams.
• Collaborate with LSXEW and Metallurgy to optimize heap leach material selection and mineralogy compatibility.
• Contribute geological insight to shovel placement and short-range production plans to minimize dilution and maximize recovery.
• Update 3D operational geology models in Leapfrog Geo under the direction of the Chief Geologist.
• Participate in grade reconciliation processes and QA/QC of sampling procedures.
• Coordinate with Survey, Mine Engineering, and Operations to ensure geological guidance is actionable and aligned with short-range schedule.
• Report findings and provide visualizations in daily/weekly planning meetings.
• Ensure geological work adheres to international best practices and SEC SK-1300 standards as applicable.
• Ensure compliance with site HSE standards.

Skills

Observational skills

Communication

Technical documentation

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Geology or related field

Tools

Leapfrog Geo

MinePlan

Vulcan

Job description

ASARCO Ray Mine is seeking an enthusiastic Mine Geologist 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:

• Conduct detailed pit mapping, geologic logging, and sampling with focus on lithology, structure, alteration, and mineralization, ensuring accurate material classification.
• Define and update ore control polygons and ore/waste boundaries, ensuring sulfide and oxide ore are routed appropriately to mill, leach pad, or stockpiles.
• Support Mine-to-Mill initiatives by identifying rock characteristics that impact fragmentation, handling, and plant throughput, and communicating findings to Drill & Blast and Processing teams.
• Collaborate with the LSXEW and Metallurgy teams to optimize heap leach material selection, ensuring appropriate copper solubility, acid consumption, and mineralogy compatibility.
• Contribute geological insight to shovel placement and short-range production plans to minimize dilution and maximize recovery.
• Assist in the update of 3D operational geology models in Leapfrog Geo, under direction of the Chief Geologist, ensuring current pit conditions are reflected in planning inputs.
• Participate in grade reconciliation processes, comparing predicted vs. actual performance, identifying causes of discrepancies, and refining geological interpretations.
• Perform QA/QC of sampling procedures including blast hole logging, channel sampling, and data integrity reviews.
• Coordinate closely with Survey, Mine Engineering, and Operations to ensure geological guidance is actionable and aligned with the short-range mining schedule.
• Report findings and provide visualizations in daily/weekly production meetings and planning reviews.
• Ensure geological work and documentation adhere to international best practices, including conformity with U.S. SEC SK-1300 technical reporting standards as applicable.
• Ensure compliance with site HSE standards and promote safe fieldwork practices.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Geological Engineering, or a related discipline
• 2+ years of open pit mine geology experience, preferably in porphyry copper systems
• Working knowledge of ore control methods and field validation for both mill-grade and leach-grade material
• Familiarity with Mine-to-Mill concepts, including fragmentation analysis and geometallurgical impacts
• Understanding of heap leach behavior, including copper solubility, oxide/sulfide transitions, and acid consumption trends
• Proficiency in geologic software (Leapfrog Geo, MinePlan, Vulcan, or similar)
• Strong observational skills and ability to work closely with cross-functional teams in field 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.