Geologist Exploration Senior

Job Title: Senior Exploration Geologist

Reports To: Exploration Manager

Location:  Coeur d’Alene, ID

Position Summary

Hecla’s NW U.S. Exploration is seeking a Senior Exploration Geologist to advance our exploration in the Silver Valley of North Idaho.  Based in our Corporate Office in Coeur d’Alene, this position represents a strategic role in leading Hecla’s exploration efforts in this world-class silver district.  The Senior Exploration Geologist, with a strong background in applied structural geology, will focus on technical excellence with significant hands-on geologic involvement.  The incumbent will work in a fast-paced, demanding and results-driven environment while developing and testing ranked exploration targets in pursuit of new resources.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Promote and maintain practices that are consistent with Hecla’s Health, Safety and Environmental standards across all exploration activities.
• Accountable for the integrity of all geologic work and interpretations.
• Development of technically sound geologic models that underpin exploration activities.
• Comprehensive data synthesis to identify and rank exploration targets.
• Use advanced knowledge of mineral deposit characteristics and mineral system processes to generate models and design exploration programs.
• Design and conduct exploration programs to delineate and test exploration targets.
• Maintain current awareness of developing exploration techniques and recent advances in understanding in economic geology and mineral deposits.
• Manage all aspects of project/program data from collection to reporting, including  geological, geophysical, geochemical, samples/analytical/QAQC.
• Create and maintain necessary media (maps, sections, etc.) to convey geologic and exploration information to stakeholders .
• Provide mentorship and leadership of technical staff to foster a high-performing environment with high-quality results.
• Produce written and visual summaries, updates, interpretations and reports.
• Generate and support weekly, quarterly, and technical reports and memos.
• Prepare and present presentations relevant to exploration activities and results .
• Develop programs and budgets for exploration activities.
• Ensure alignment of exploration goals with Hecla’s overall business objectives.
• Generate and maintain fit-for-purpose geological and structural 3D models and interpretations.
• Collect and use detailed structural geology data and observations to inform geologic models and exploration targeting.
• Other duties as assigned.

Technical Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge and technical experience with exploration and mining operations and a broad understanding of the metals industry.
• Strong understanding of precious and base metal vein deposits and related mineral system processes.
• Able to integrate contemporary geologic methods with advanced technical approaches
• Create detailed geologic maps (surface and UG), cross-sections and manage associated data and products.
• Strong understanding of analytical techniques and methods.
• Implement, monitor, and report on Quality Assurance and Quality Control programs for all sampling and analytical programs.
• Develop workflows and data collection strategies to achieve objectives.
• Field and drill supervision and guidance; guide team personnel and represent Company to contractors; review and advise work from others (as needed).
• Proficient in Leapfrog Geo, ESRI ArcGIS Pro, ioGAS, with experience in data management
• Capable of advanced data analysis to investigate geologic, geochemical, and geophysical  relationships that support exploration models and targets.
• Experience with field equipment such as portable XRF and light spectroscopy instruments considered valuable
• Ability to synthesis and integrate historical information, reports, and data into current exploration efforts.
• Ability to communicate effectively to variety of audiences (verbal and written).
• Work efficiently and manage time between projects, balance deadlines

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Geology is required; advanced post-graduate geoscience degree (MSc or PhD) is preferred.
• Minimum 7 years’ experience in applicable precious or base metals exploration is required; 8-10 years preferred.
• Direct experience with applied structural geology in exploration and with vein systems hosted in ductile, metamorphic terranes is preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Proficient in Leapfrog Geo, ArcGIS Pro, and ioGAS software’s preferred.
• Advanced understanding geologic and analytical data management.
• Strong communication, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Must have a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Ability to work in field (surface) and underground environments.

Interpersonal and Core Competencies

• Safety & Environmental Stewardship – Complies with all procedures and regulations.
• Problem Solving & Critical Thinking – Analyzes data and identifies effective solutions.
• Adaptability – Manages shifting priorities in dynamic field conditions.
• Collaboration & Communication – Works effectively with internal and external partners.
• Accountability – Takes ownership of results and upholds company values.
• Able to travel and work remotely
• Effectively build relationships and trust within the exploration team, and with permitting agencies and contractors
• Stress tolerance with ability to meet deadlines
• High aptitude for focus on details
• Operates with high degree of autonomy; self-motivated
• Can work independently and within team(s)
• Able to exercise discretion and discernment in business related matters and job-related decisions.

Physical and Work Environment Requirements

• Work is performed in office, warehouse, and field (surface and underground) settings.
• Work may involve walking on uneven terrain, standing or sitting for long periods, exposure to weather, and lifting to 50 pound over extended periods.
• Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is required on all active exploration and mining environments.
• Noise is generally quiet in the office but in the field and warehouse environment and appropriate hearing protection may be required.
• Work environments may involve exposure to dust and particulates, and use of a respirator may be required.
• Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities to perform essential work functions.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Hecla is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace free from discrimination and harassment.