Principal Geoscientist, Generative Exploration

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Professional Coeur d'Alene, , US

3 days ago Requisition

Reports To:

Director of Generative Exploration

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 under explored, 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.

This list is not all-inclusive and may be revised as needed; additional duties may be assigned.

• 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.

Opportunity Generation & Research

• 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

Property Acquisition & Evaluation

• 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

Program Management

• 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

• 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
• Active membership in a recognized Self‑Regulating Organization, and Qualified Person certification under NI 43‑101, SK‑1300, or JORC (preferred)
• Proven track record identifying under explored 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,…