Reclamationist​/Geologist – Natural Resource Specialist 4

Initial Posting Date: 07/28/2026 Final date to receive applications: 08/11/2026 Agency:
Department of Geology and Mineral Industries Salary Range: $6,276 - $9,644 Position Type:
Employee

Compensation:
Salary: $6,276 - $9,644 Monthly (based on education and experience)

Differentials:
Special Licensure:
Those holding an Oregon Licensed Geologist certification
* earn 5% above base rate

As the Reclamationist/Geologist for the Department of Geology and Mineral Industries, you will be a subject matter expert contributing to the successful permitting and oversight of aggregate and non-aggregate surface mining activities across Oregon. This position requires technical, science-based expertise in geology or natural resource science related to mineral resource exploration and the operation and reclamation of surface mines.

You will also perform administrative and technical tasks as assigned, including but not limited to:

• special project management
• research and analysis
• outreach and consultation
• agency representation and inter-agency coordination

The Reclamationist/Geologist works independently or as part of team to respond to complaints, conduct permit and site file review, field inspections and first-level enforcement to ensure mines and mining related activities do not cause environmental degradation or adverse impacts to adjacent or onsite natural resources.

This position will work collaboratively with permit tees, applicants, county and state agencies and other technical and administrative DOGAMI staff, to review permit applications and write complex, conditioned mining permits, formal agreements and reports addressing multidisciplinary issues.

Minimum Qualifications:

Three years of experience in surface mining, mineral resource extraction or mined land reclamation. At least one year of the experience must be at a technical or professional level performing activities in a natural resource program such as researching and analyzing data, conducting investigations, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities; AND a Bachelor's degree in Geology, Geological Engineering, closely related natural resource or engineering field or three additional years of related experience and course work.

Equivalency Notes: A Master's degree in Geology or Geological Engineering will substitute for up to one year of the required experience. A Doctorate degree in Geology or Geological Engineering will substitute for up to two years of the required experience.

NOTE:

If you are using education to meet the minimum qualifications, a photocopy of transcripts will be requested prior to hire.

Demonstrated experience in surface mining operation and reclamation, regulations, policy development and interpretation and application of statute and rule. Proven experience with field data collection, GIS software, database management, data analysis and interpretation. Demonstrated success and advanced knowledge of project management and project management principles, including coordinating projects among local, state, federal, and Tribal partners. Proven experience working with and communicating (verbally and in writing) controversial and complex scientific information constructively and helpfully to technical and non-technical audiences, government agencies, scientific partners and collaborators, contractors, other interested parties, and the public.

Skill writing clear and concise investigative, technical, or narrative reports that include analysis, and recommendations for complex regulatory determinations.

Preference will be given to those candidates who have two years’ experience in an equivalent agency role as a Natural Resource Specialist 4 and are an Oregon Registered Geologist or Oregon Certified Engineering Geologist or experience in an area of professional practice that overlaps with a Registered Geologist or Certified Engineering Geologist. Current Oregon licensure is preferred, but those eligible to be licensed will also be considered.