Mine and Exploration Geologist

Conda Phosphate Operations

Soda Springs, Idaho

The Mine and Exploration Geologist, reporting directly to the Director of Exploration, Permitting and Reclamation, will be responsible for preparation of future mine infill drilling, exploration activities, managing the drilling and geology programs as well as integration and exposure to current and future permitting and reclamation activities.

Specific Responsibilities

• Manage mine drilling operations.
  • Identify, plan and execute annual drilling program ahead of pit activities.
  • Procure drilling contractor prior to drilling season.
  • Manage the drilling contractor while drilling is occurring (lead and/or participate in employee and contractor safety meetings and training sessions)
• Manage the mine geologic and block models.
  • Collect, input and analyze annual drilling information.
  • Create and update the mine geologic model and block model.
  • Work with engineering and permitting to provide geologic maps and information as needed.
  • Gather survey data and ore qualities to be used to compare and improve the current model.
• Assist with long term exploration programs.
• Coordinate and manage 3rd party consultants/contractors.
• Perform basic geologic surface mapping and be able to use information to validate models.
• Work with the slope stability engineer to inspect, evaluate and provide recommendations for slope stability issues.
• Lead safety in a way that supports the Company’s 3 Key Principles and 10 Tenants of Operation, with a firm belief that all incidents are preventable.
  • Use Itafos’ incident reporting system to input incidents and job task observations.
• Review, develop, and improve site level documentation (standards, procedures, policies, etc.)
• Assist in developing initial short and long-term budgets and schedules for all exploration activities, including integration into Permitting and Reclamation activities.
• Support in strategizing exploration development activities with key stakeholders (agencies, contractors, other mining companies, etc.).
• Work in support of and integration with the Permitting group to provide input and strategy in future permitting efforts associated with long term mine development and progression.
• Work in support of and integration with the Reclamation group to provide input and strategy on aspects of current mine closure requirements and planning, exploration reclamation and long term mine closure activities.
• Provide support to other departments as needed.

Preferred skills and experience of the position include:

• Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Mine Engineering, Geological Engineering, or related field.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Preferred proficiency in Leapfrog and Surpac Mine Modeling Software and/or similar modeling software.
• Previous direct mine experience and ability to demonstrate existing project management experience.
• Ability to learn and take directions from others and work as part of a team environment.
• Possess analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Possess a high level of oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to coordinate and prioritize multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Ability to perform in high-pressure/time-sensitive situations and meet deadlines.
• Ability to develop trust and a working relationship with local, state, and federal regulatory agency personnel.
• Must be a highly motivated self-starter.
• Must have strong interpersonal skills and can work well in a team environment.

Work Schedule & Environment:

• 4-day x 10-hour work week, typically Monday through Thursday.
• May be required to work altered work schedules to meet site goals (especially during drilling season).
• Requirement to be responsive to Mine needs, including production upsets, during normal and off shift hours.
• Performing work in a combination of office/indoor and mining/outdoor settings (50% each).
• Typical mining environment working near moving equipment and mechanical parts, varying levels of noise, and near fumes or airborne particles.
• Performing work outdoors in a variety of environmental conditions including elevated temperatures, cold, rain, snow, etc.
• Performing work from elevated heights, platforms, and/or ladders.
• Performing work using a variety of types of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including hard hats, safety glasses/goggles, gloves, hearing protection, fall protection, etc.
• Requires frequent standing, walking, and ascending/descending stairs.
• Requires full-time, on-site physical presence at our Mine location (Soda Springs, Idaho).

Employment Conditions:

• Must be legally eligible to work in the United States of America.
• Successful completion of a pre-employment background screen, a pre-employment drug and alcohol screen, and a pre-placement fitness for duty evaluation.

** Itafos is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.**