Also called: Ore Control Geologist, Grade Control Geologist
Works at an active mine deciding which rock is valuable ore and which is waste.
You map fresh rock faces after each blast, collect samples, and mark the ground with colored flags so truck drivers know which loads go to the mill. Shifts start early and often rotate, with weeks on site.
Remote sites often add bonuses and rotation pay.
Bachelor's degree (4-year), about 4 years after high school. Bachelor's in geology or geological engineering.
Ways in: 4-year college, On-the-job training. Training cost: $15k – $60k.
Majors to look at: Geology, Geological Engineering, Mining Engineering.
Growing about average (about 3% over 10 years). Geoscientists overall; critical minerals are boosting hiring.
Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. AI ore models and drill-core scanners speed grade control; mapping rock in the pit stays hands-on judgment.
Classes: Earth science, AP Chemistry, AP Statistics.
Official data: O*NET occupation 19-2042.
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