Job Information
Montana Tech Economic Geologist in Butte, Montana
Economic Geologist –
Professional Scientist or Bureau Professional Practice Faculty (BPPF) Assistant Professor
Montana Technological University provides a comprehensive benefits package for all eligible positions that includes health, dental and vision insurance, mandatory retirement plan with employer contribution, partial tuition waiver, and a wellness program.
Applications received by February 15, 2024 will be guaranteed full review and consideration. Applications received after that date may be considered until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
The Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology (MBMG) invites applications for one or more positions of Professional Scientist or Assistant Professor (BPPF) Economic Geologist, to join the Economic Geology Team and participate in critical minerals studies throughout Montana. The position is based in Butte and located on the campus of Montana Technological University. The successful candidate will contribute to modern assessments of critical commodity resources in Montana, with a focus on fieldwork – geologic mapping, geochemical reconnaissance, and geophysical interpretations. The position is funded by federal grants to study critical commodities at the regional to deposit scale. Current projects are focused in western Montana but the long-term scope of the studies is statewide. MBMG anticipates at least three years of secured funding for the position, and ongoing opportunities for the right candidate to explore additional funding avenues to promote future program development. This is a non-tenurable, non-teaching position.
Project activities include field, laboratory, and desktop studies of critical commodity resource data, with a particular focus on geologic mapping, geochemistry, and mine waste characterization. Specific tasks will include compilation of geologic data, historic mine records, mine site visits and sampling campaigns, sample preparation, and sample archiving. A working understanding of ArcGIS geodatabase construction and familiarity with the USGS GeMS schema is preferred. The position may provide opportunities for extensive field work at active and inactive mine sites, including quadrangle geologic mapping in remote areas of Montana known for rugged and difficult terrain. The successful applicant will provide institutional and public service in through workshops, public presentations, and other outreach activities. This position will also provide mineralogy and geochemistry expertise to other MBMG programs such as hydrogeology and geologic hazards.
Required Qualifications:
A Bachelor’s degree in geology or related field and a minimum of 3 years’ experience (or a Master’s degree in geology, or related field obtained by June 30, 2024) in geology or related field for the Professional Scientist level;
A Master’s degree in geology or related field and a minimum of 3 years geoscience project experience (or a Ph.D. in geology, or related field) for the Bureau Professional Practice Faculty Assistant Professor.
Successful completion of courses fundamental to geologic mapping (e.g., field methods, structural geology, igneous and sedimentary petrology, optical mineralogy, GIS, etc.).
A candidate may be required to provide official academic transcripts.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.
Excellent communication skills.
Proficiency with common word-processing and spreadsheet software (e.g., Microsoft Office).
A valid Montana driver’s license (or ability to acquire one) is required.
Preferred Qualifications:
M.S. in geology and geologic mapping experience.
Proficiency with GIS
Experience collecting, managing, and interpreting geoscience sample data.
Professional experience related to economic geology, mineralogy, acid mine drainage, GIS, mineral processing, and/or field geology; and an understanding of critical mineral commodities.
Interest in field-based studies related to active and abandoned mine sites throughout Montana as expressed in the cover letter of the application package.
Knowledge of modern mineral exploration techniques, including geochemistry, alteration mineralogy, geophysics, and anomaly identification.
Experience with mine waste management, sampling, and characterization, and related geochemical processes.
Demonstrated interest in studies of critical minerals and rare earth elements.
Familiarity with the USGS critical mineral commodities list and a working understanding of historic precious- and base-metal deposits in Montana and how they are linked to the USGS critical mineral commodities.
Experience with the USGS GeMS geodatabase schema (ArcGIS – based).
Skilled at writing as demonstrated through relevant scientific publications and reports.
Physical Demands
The ability to independently conduct fieldwork on foot, for extended periods in difficult, remote terrain, that often requires extended overnight travel and camping.
The physically and mental ability to safely work alone in isolated areas.
The physical ability to pack rock samples (up to 50 pounds) over long distances and rough terrain.
The ability to work at a computer workstation for extended periods in an office setting.
For full consideration application materials must be complete.
Please include:
A cover letter that addresses the required experience and qualifications
A resume that addresses the applicant’s experience specific to research and work in economic geology
Name/contact information for 3 references who can speak to the applicant’s abilities related to economic geology
For full consideration application materials must be complete.
Any offer of employment is contingent upon a satisfactory criminal background check.
Montana Tech is committed to providing a working and learning environment free from discrimination. As such, the University does not discriminate in the admission, access to or conduct of its educational programs and activities nor in its employment policies and practices on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, creed, service in the uniformed services (as defined in state and federal law), veteran status, gender, age, political beliefs, marital or family status, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation or preference. In support of the University’s mission to be inclusive and diverse, applications from qualified minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities are highly encouraged. Montana Tech makes accommodation for any known disability that may interfere with an applicant’s ability to compete in the hiring process or an employee’s ability to perform the duties of the job. In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, Montana Tech provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans.
To claim veteran’s preference please complete the employment (veteran’s) preference form located on the employment page and email to humanresources@mtech.edu. You must include the job title of the position in which you are applying.
Employment (veteran's) preference form
To request an accommodation for the application or interview, please contact Cathy Isakson 406-496-4380; cisakson@mtech.edu
Why Work at Tech?
Help meet the changing needs of society by providing a transformative student experience by helping develop leaders for tomorrow by advancing science, engineering and technology.
In addition, Montana Tech offers an attractive benefits package* which includes:
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance with low deductibles and comprehensive coverage.
Generous employer contribution toward monthly health care benefits worth $6.08 per hour.
5.9% retirement employer contribution for eligible employees
11 Holidays per year
3 weeks of Annual Leave to start
Generous sick leave policy that can be used for sick children, doctor and dentist appointments as well as bereavement.
6 credits of coursework free per year (fees not included)
Life and Disability Insurance
Reduced tuition for dependents after 4 months of employment for eligible employees
Employee Assistance and a Wellness Program
Optional Retirement Plan for eligible employees
Possible remote work days with supervisor approval and eligible positions.
- Benefits are dependent on position type and terms and conditions of eligibility.
Montana Technological University, Butte Montana, is nestled in the Heart of the Rocky Mountains along the Continental Divide, where I-15 and I-90 intersect. We are home to the largest National Historic District in the country. Montana Tech is a special focus institution with a reputation for excellence and value. Montana Tech is ranked #1 in the nation by CollegeNET.
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