Principal Geoscientist, Generative Exploration

HECLA MINING CO.•Coeur d'Alene, ID

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Principal Geoscientist leads in identifying and evaluating new silver and gold exploration opportunities through systematic research, field investigations, and strategic industry networking. The role focuses 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 ultimate objective of discovering Tier 1 silver and gold assets aligned with Hecla's corporate growth strategy.

Requirements

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
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

Nice To Haves

Active membership in a recognized Self-Regulating Organization, and Qualified Person certification under NI 43-101, SK-1300, or JORC (preferred)

Responsibilities

Promote and maintain a strong safety-first culture across all exploration activities including a strong commitment to following all applicable company, state, and federal safety guidelines.
Ensure alignment of exploration goals with Hecla’s overall business objectives.
Identify new exploration opportunities, with a focus on Nevada and other favorable areas within the Western United States, using cost-effective methodologies, including analysis of technical literature, application of geological principles, and innovative targeting approaches
Develop and maintain comprehensive databases of mineral deposits and exploration properties; analyze datasets to identify prospective districts in politically stable jurisdictions with Tier 1 deposit potential
Evaluate field data in conjunction with technical reports, geological maps, and engineering/economic studies to prepare detailed recommendations for the Director of Generative Exploration
Conduct field investigations of exploration properties and assess acquisition of third-party holdings
Prepare comprehensive evaluation reports with actionable recommendations for properties of interest
Engage with property owners and stakeholders to negotiate partnerships or acquisitions
Coordinate property acquisition through claim staking, government applications, or direct purchase/option agreements
Manage and monitor generative exploration budgets and timelines for assigned programs
Design focused exploration programs that efficiently advance projects to clearly defined decision points
Maintain positive, culturally respectful relationships with Indigenous nations and local stakeholders in areas of exploration interest
Support Corporate Development with project and company evaluations, including due diligence studies