ASARCO Mission Mine is seeking an enthusiastic Mine Geologist to be part of a dedicated team focused on supporting copper production at a porphyry skarn copper deposit adjacent to Tucson, Arizona. The Mission 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 a high-tonnage open-pit copper mine, which processes sulfide ore. 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 Mine-to-Mill optimization and 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 grade control polygons and ore/waste boundaries, ensuring ore is routed appropriately to mill, stockpiles, or waste deposition areas.
- 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 Metallurgy teams to define and optimize geometallurgical parameters for mineral processing.
- 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, ensuring current pit conditions are reflected in planning inputs.
- Participate in F1-F3 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, mine laboratory performance, and data integrity reviews.
- Coordinate closely with Mine Engineering and Mine 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 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 material
- Familiarity with Mine-to-Mill concepts, including fragmentation analysis and geometallurgical impacts
- Strong software kills, preferably with proficiency in geologic/mining 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 offers an excellent low-cost benefits package for medical/prescription/ dental/vision, disability coverage, life insurance and other optional coverage, and 401(k) plan with company match.
