Senior Geologist

Located approximately 26 miles from the City of Fairbanks, Fort Knox is a centre of excellence for the Company as one of the few cold weather heap leach facilities in the world. Fort Knox celebrated its 25-year anniversary in 2021, and has produced over 8.5 million ounces since it began operation. In 2020, Kinross acquired Manh Choh – a project expected to commence production in 2024 and process ore at Fort Knox.

Fort Knox prioritizes being a strong contributor to the State and local communities, and since 2001, has helped support more than 300 community partners and has contributed more than US$25 million to the Alaska Mental Health Trust.

Job Description

As Senior Mine Geologist, you will lead the ore control program at the Fort Knox open pit mine, overseeing a team of geologists and geological technicians. You will manage the full grade control process, from blasthole sampling and QA/QC through grade control modelling, dig line design and mining accuracy verification, with the goal of maximizing ore recovery and minimizing dilution and ore loss. Working closely with mine engineering, operations and the process plant, you will prepare monthly reconciliation reports and drive continuous improvement in ore control practices. You will also mentor and develop junior geologists and technicians, building technical depth across the team.

The mine is located 25 miles from Fairbanks, Alaska. The work schedule alternates between 4 days on/3 days off and 5 days on/2 days off.

Job Responsibilities

1. Prepare reconciliation comparisons between reserve models and actual mine production.
2. Ensure high quality of blasthole samples and ore control releases.
3. Working closely with the mine department, verify mining accuracy and track mining dilution and loss.
4. Mentor and develop ore control geology team.
5. Ensure that geologic information is updated in a timely and accurate manner.
6. Assist other staff with tasks that involve geologic issues. Regularly work with Planning and Mine Operations staff to ensure efficient mining operations.
7. Keep current on new developments in geology and other fields that might improve efficiency in handling and interpreting geologic data.
8. Maintain accurate records and files.
9. Consistent exercise of discretion and judgment in job performance.
10. Punctuality and regular attendance are required.
11. Meet or exceed established performance expectations set by management.
12. Compliance with all company policies and procedures including, but not limited to, safety, confidentiality, and environmental policies.
13. Work safely in all areas and identify potential safety hazards and work with management to correct them.
14. Work without significant risk of harm to self and others.
15. Carry out duties of Mine Geologist as needed.
16. Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications and Skill Requirements

1. Employee must have sufficient education to read and write instructions, perform simple mathematical calculations, and keep records.
2. Bachelor of Science in geology or related field is required.
3. Must have a strong commitment to safety in the working environment.
4. A minimum of four years’ experience as a mine geologist is required.
5. Must have a strong knowledge of blasthole sampling protocol and assay techniques.
6. Knowledge of Vulcan, Leapfrog, and AcQuire are strongly preferred but not strictly required.
7. Must have solid verbal and written communication skills.
8. Must be a self-starter with the ability to work with others in a team environment.
9. Ability to function within the qualifications outlined in the attached physical demands sheets.

1. May work holidays, weekends, and shift work as required.

1. Possession of a valid driver’s license issued by the state.

Reporting Relationships

This role reports to the Chief Geologist 

Legislative Requirements

US work permit required

Language Requirements

English

Travel Requirements

Ability and willingness to travel

Kinross is a Canadian-based global senior gold mining company with operations and projects in the United States, Brazil, Mauritania, Chile, and Canada. Our focus on delivering value is based on our core principles of responsible mining, operational excellence, disciplined growth and balance sheet strength. Kinross maintains listings on the Toronto Stock Exchange (symbol:K) and the New York Stock Exchange (symbol:KGC).