Minerals Program Scientist; Environmental Scientist III

MINERALS PROGRAM SCIENTIST (Environmental Scientist III, II, or I)

May underfill at level II or I depending on qualifications and experience.

FT / PT Status – Full-Time | Salary – $35.86 - $55.00 Hourly Wage | Remote Work / In-Office – In-Office / On-Site | Final date to receive applications – 8/30/2026

Are you a natural resources scientist interested in contributing to the development of mineral resources to benefit the future of all Utahns by providing necessary materials to build and power our modern society? Does the challenge of permitting and inspecting non-coal mines throughout the state interest you? If so, consider joining the Utah Division of Oil, Gas and Mining as an Environmental Scientist.

In this role, you will work with a multi-disciplinary team to review Exploration, Small and Large Mine permit applications and amendments and do inspections at mine sites.

• Review mining and exploration notices of intent and make determination of adequacy for permit issuance.
• Conduct inspections of mine sites for compliance with permit and rules. Write Notices of Violation and Cessation orders when warranted.
• Evaluate mine plans and make determinations based on your core science background.
• Provide written documentation of plan reviews.
• Participate in formulation and refinement of rules, guidelines, policies and practices related to your background.
• Communicate often with other permitting agencies, operators and the public regarding mine plans and operations.

Minimum or "day-one" qualifications:

• BS Degree in Biology, Hydrology, Geology, Natural Resources or a related environmental science degree or five years of work related experience relating to the degree and/or mining.
• Oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to read and interpret technical information, drawings and maps.
• Ability to use spreadsheet and word processing software.
• Ability to read maps and visualize contour maps.
• Technical writing skills.
• Ability to document work through the use of notes, photos, tablet, computers and GPS to be used as evidence and testimony in hearings or court proceedings.
• Ability to operate a 4wd vehicle in conditions associated with rural Utah dirt roads.
• Skills in assessing work load and planning day to day schedule
• Valid Driver's License
• Willingness and ability to write-up non-compliant operators and to draft abatement measures.

• Specific knowledge of how your discipline relates to mining
• Knowledge of Title 40-8 Statute and R647 mining rules.
• Ability to oversee and direct the abatement of non-compliant situations until resolved.
• Knowledge of other permits and clearances required to operate a mine and experience working with the agencies involved
• Experience in mining or heavy equipment construction environment

Location – 1594 West North Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84116, United States

Background Check Required – No

Drug Test Required – No

Schedule Code – B - Competitive Career Service

Work Schedule – M-F 8-5 or flex schedule 4-10s May be telework eligible after 6 months.

Work environment, working conditions, physical requirements –

• Monthly, daily, and some overnight travel is required
• Inspections are in remote locations throughout Utah requiring the operation of 4WD vehicles on dirt roads. This will most often be on your own
• Schedule may change based on industry activity
• Work requires physical exertion.
• May require the ability to stand; walk over rough surfaces.
• Outside work in all weather conditions
• Working around mining equipment.
• Specialized safety precautions or equipment may be used
• Certifications/Licenses
  -PE License is ideal, but not required

In Utah, we believe hard work is…