Mine Geologist

RESPECT to people,COURAGE to be pioneers and raise the bar, and always demonstratingINTEGRITY and authenticity. Do these core values align with yours? If so, Lhoist North America may be the place for you! We are a company that believes our people make it happen and rewards talent by offering opportunities to further develop your knowledge and interests. Within our organization, we offer safety first environments, collaboration across teams, diverse and inclusive workspaces all while challenging each other to grow.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Unique role for an individual who possesses primarily clay geology and some mine engineering experience who enjoys the southwest climate and being outdoors. Position will be responsible for leading the exploration and geological reconnaissance, developing and maintaining mine isopach models and using these tools to lead short-term mine planning at the site. Position responsible for regular updates of pit and dump topography, completion of monthly drone volume surveys in all active mining areas and ore stockpiles. Conduct surveys and track quality control data to define ore zone contact limits and maintaining accurate planning and practices. Lead surveying site needs as well as developing and recording exploratory and quality control drilling layouts and organizing the associated ore quality data for isopach model entry. Responsibility over short-term and geological mine planning while keeping operations on budget, achieving requisite ore inventory targets and working closely with corporate G&M counterparts for the development and implementation of a long-term mine plan.

RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTATIONS:

• Exploration:
  • Lead the exploration and geologic reconnaissance.
  • Field Mapping, drilling, coring, zone definition
  • Update and maintain new and existing geologic interpretations.
• Geology Needs:
  • Geologic Support for plant and regional mining team.
  • Geologic interpretation and modeling for areas of responsibility
  • Development of knowledge of all geologic issues and key quality parameters
  • Constantly improve and develop geologic interpretation and model.
  • Identify opportunities quality optimization and improve utilization of the natural resource.
  • Champion full utilization of the natural resource
• Volume Surveys:
  • Complete monthly volume surveys in all active clay pits and ore stockpiles for volume and ore reconciliation.
  • Reconcile volumes to scrapper factors for both monthly and year to date tracking basis.
  • Monthly updates of clay isopach models, pit topography to facilitate short-term planning accuracy as well as ensuring the isopach models are consistent.
• Mine Surveys:
  • Survey and track quality control data to define ore zone contact limits in pit to improve ore recovery in all clay pits while tracking and investigating ore downgrading events.
  • Survey and record clay extraction patterns. Maintain AutoCAD records for future reference and adjacent pattern layouts.
  • Review electronic / Aero Propeller grade information in active clay pits to improve mining accuracy. Layout clay pit designs and project work for mining accuracy and improvements to ore recovery.
• Planning:
  • Coordinate Exploratory Drilling campaigns as well as sitting the rig, organizing samples for onsite analysis, and inventorying sample splits.
  • Complete short term mining plans to keep operations on budget and drive the development of a long-term site mine plan. Use drill core lab data to develop and maintain mine isopach models, improve ore yields and reduce wastage and put data into practice by optimizing the day-to-day actions of the quarry team.
  • Support the development of weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual mine and waste storage plans.
  • Liase and coordinate with corporate G&M technical team as required.
  • Conduct periodic audits / trainings of ore sampling protocols with quarry personnel as well as measurement procedures with the site lab team.
  • Work with corporate analytical lab counterparts for ongoing deposit support not able to be performed onsite.
  • Back up supervisor for the quarry team as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

ATTRIBUTES:

• Experience with or high aptitude for learning CAD based computer software (e.g. AutoCAD, Carlson, Leapfrog).
• Familiarity with or high aptitude for learning GPS survey equipment. Experience with the Trimble and the Aero Propeller Dirtmate platform are a plus.
• Physically capable of walking on uneven surfaces and accessing all plant and quarry locations.
• Must be capable of working outside in severe (hot / cold) weather conditions.
• Attention to detail with strong analytical and mathematical skills.
• Able to work effectively in a cross-disciplinary way with all levels of the organization.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and technical writing skills. Bilingual, English & (conversational) Spanish, is a plus.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks/projects and meeting deadlines.
• Displays sound judgment when deciding among multiple alternatives.
• Strong sense of urgency in meeting site and customer needs.
• Proficient with AutoCAD, Excel (advanced), PowerPoint, and Word. Previous SAP knowledge is a plus.
• Able to work on different shifts as needed, seven days per week.
• Willingness to reside within 50 miles of the Amargosa Valley, NV site.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

• Must be physically able to perform work assigned.
• Must be physically capable of accessing all plant and mine locations.
• Access all areas within a site which could include heights of 150 feet, confined spaces, climbing ladders or stairs, and accessing tunnels.
• Will be working at times in covered / climate-controlled environment but mainly in a clay/lime/mineral environment.
• The employee will be exposed to the following working conditions: Extreme Heat and Cold, Noise, Vibration, Oils, and Atmospheric Conditions such as Dust, Fumes, and Clay/Lime/Mineral Particles.
• The employee will be required to perform the following actions (from time to time): Standing, walking, balancing, stooping, kneeling, reaching, talking, seeing, hearing and sitting.
• Ability to lift/carry 50 pounds.
• Ability to travel up to 20% to other sites as needed and/or directed by leadership.

REQUIRED EDUCATION:

• Bachelor's degree in either Geology or mine engineering from an accredited institution, and/or equivalent relevant education and experience.

PREFFERED EDUCATION:

• MS Degree in Geology.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum of five (5) years' experience in surface mining preferable in the clay, lime or cement industry.

PREFFERED EXPERIENCE:

• Previous surface clay mining operation with at least seven (7) years' previous experience.

Lhoist North America offers a very competitive total rewards package that includes but is not limited to comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, vacation, and disability insurance. You can plan for your future with Lhoist North America 401K retirement savings options which includes an employer match. Lhoist North America also recognizes the importance of continuing education by offering Educational Assistance to our employees to encourage continued personal development and professional growth.

Here at Lhoist North America, we are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any of these protected characteristics. We encourage applications from all individuals and strongly support diversity in our workplace. We strive to create an inclusive environment for everyone, and we are committed to treating everyone in a fair and equitable manner. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.