Principal Geoscientist, Generative Exploration
On-site · Reno, Nevada, United States or Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, United States
Job Summary
Principal Geoscientist leads in identifying and evaluating new silver and gold exploration opportunities through systematic research, field investigations, and strategic industry networking. Focus is on discovering underexplored, high-potential properties in favorable jurisdictions, securing land positions through various acquisition methods, and advancing exploration programs to critical decision points with the objective of discovering Tier 1 silver and gold assets aligned with Hecla's growth strategy. Responsibilities include promoting a safety-first culture, aligning exploration goals with corporate objectives, generating opportunities in Nevada and the Western U.S., maintaining databases of mineral deposits, evaluating field data and technical reports, negotiating partnerships or acquisitions, coordinating property acquisitions, managing exploration budgets and timelines, designing focused programs, and building relationships with Indigenous nations and stakeholders. Requires Master’s degree or higher in Geology, 15+ years of experience, NI 43-101/JORC qualifications (preferred), proficiency in ArcGIS/Leapfrog/ioGAS, strong communication skills, travel willingness, and successful completion of background screening and drug testing.
Required Qualifications
- 15+ years of progressive experience in generative exploration, opportunity recognition, and project evaluation, with demonstrated success managing programs and joint ventures
- Master’s degree or other advanced degree in Geology required
- Active membership in a recognized Self-Regulating Organization, and Qualified Person certification under NI 43-101, SK-1300, or JORC (preferred)
- Proven track record identifying underexplored Tier 1 silver/gold opportunities, securing land positions, and designing effective exploration programs
- Broad experience across geologic domains and deposit types, with demonstrated expertise in epithermal systems required. Proficiency in field mapping and systematic, hypothesis-driven geological interpretation, complemented by strong working knowledge of geochemical, geophysical, and remote sensing methods — and the ability to integrate these datasets into coherent exploration models
- Proficiency in ArcGIS, Leapfrog, ioGAS, and Microsoft Office
- Strong analytical and data interpretation skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication abilities and experience preparing executive-level reports and presentations
- Self-directed, collaborative, and effective at building relationships with government agencies, Indigenous communities, industry partners, and multidisciplinary teams
- Creative problem-solver with strong geological intuition and cultural sensitivity; able to work autonomously and lead others
- Willingness and ability to travel nationally and internationally as required
- Must have a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
- Must successfully pass background screening, pre-employment physical, and drug screening
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