Geoscience Job Board

The Division of Lands and Minerals is seeking to fill one (1) full-time Mineral Potential Geologist position located in Hibbing, Minnesota. This position exists to advance the Department's mineral management and land stewardship mission by independently conducting geological research, evaluating mineral potential, and integrating complex geoscientific datasets into actionable interpretations. The incumbent applies advanced geological training to collect, analyze, synthesize, and communicate scientific findings that support land use decisions, mineral exploration activities, and the long-term management of Minnesota's mineral resources.

Responsibilities include:

• Independently design, implement, and complete research and evaluation projects that support mineral potential assessment, land use management, natural resource decision-making, and educational outreach.
• Support and oversee public use of the Drill Core Library. Assist in identifying and offering available supplemental data or materials. Lead outreach efforts to collect and organize sampling data, coordinate the return of sampled materials by updating and maintaining relevant data tables, improve the accuracy of drill hole locations and records, and assist with Drill Core Library functions as needed.
• Lead and participate in projects that curate, organize, and disseminate geological information held by the DNR; inventorying, standardizing, and improving access to hardcopy and digital datasets associated with mineral exploration activities, nonferrous lease terminations, short-term authorizations, historical exploration projects, and Drill Core Library sampling events.
• Complete special assignments, contribute to division and department initiatives, and maintain advanced competencies through ongoing training and professional development.
• Participate in committees, meetings, conferences, and events to support DNR and division goals, share relevant information, and improve scientific and operational effectiveness.

This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a part-time basis, which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete an annual telework agreement.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Earth Sciences, Geology, or closely related field.
• Three (3) years of professional experience as a geologist, with experience in mineral exploration, mineral potential evaluation, and technical writing.
• Advanced knowledge and relevant experience in mineralogy, petrology, historical geology, or structural geology, as well as applied knowledge of geochemistry and geophysical methods used in mineral exploration and mineral potential evaluation.
• Demonstrated ability to independently design, conduct, and interpret geological research, and to lead or contribute to interdisciplinary research teams involving DNR staff and external state or federal partners.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills, including the ability to inventory, curate, evaluate, and synthesize geological documents, samples, datasets, and metadata, as well as to collect scientific measurements and develop efficient, accurate workflows.
• Proficiency with geodatabases and digital mapping tools, including the ability to interpret and integrate multiple spatial and nonspatial datasets to support geological analysis and land management decisions.
• Knowledge of mineral systems, ore deposit types, exploration methods (e.g., drilling, geophysics, geochemistry), mineral economics, and digital data management practices, including geographic information systems (e.g., ArcGIS) and related analytical software.
• Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills, to independently draft and finalize technical reports and professional presentations to convey technical information, summarize findings, and communicate with internal colleagues, external collaborators, and public or nonspecialized audiences.
• Collaboration and interpersonal skills, sufficient to work constructively with colleagues, supervisors, partners, and the public to support shared goals and maintain a respectful, professional workplace.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree(s) in Earth Sciences, Geology, or closely related field.
• Licensed as a Professional Geoscientist with the State of Minnesota.
• Experience with geoscience data curation, archival practices, or management of legacy datasets.
• Experience and knowledge in the development of databases and GIS-based map production.
• Experience using analytical, machine-learning, or programming tools (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB) for geoscientific data analysis or workflow automation.
• Experience in the collection of geologic field observations used to create a database that permits clients to ask questions of the map and gather data for their own decision-making needs.
• Experience presenting geoscience research at professional conferences, public meetings, or technical workshops.
• Familiarity with Minnesota geology, mineral systems, or historical mineral exploration activities.
• Safety training certification card for the Mining Safety and Health Administration or Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
• Knowledge of mineral leasing, land status systems, or natural resource management frameworks.

Additional Requirements

This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver’s License with a clear driving record. Per DNR Fleet Policy, only individuals 18 years of age or older with a valid driver’s license may operate equipment and vehicles on behalf of the Agency.

Applicants must have the ability to meet the physical requirements and work in the environmental conditions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B status).

It is the policy of the Department of Natural Resources that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:

• Conflict of Interest Review
• Criminal History Check
• Education Verification
• Employment Reference / Records Check
• License / Certification Verification