Senior Geochemist

Job Description

RESPEC is seeking an experienced Senior Geochemist to provide technical leadership within our growing mining geochemistry and biogeochemistry consulting practice. While preference will be given to candidates based in, or willing to work from, our Bozeman, Montana, office, we encourage qualified applicants in Denver, Colorado; Reno, Nevada; Rapid City, South Dakota to apply, as RESPEC has offices in each of these locations.

This is an exciting opportunity for a highly skilled geochemist who is passionate about solving complex mining and environmental challenges while leading projects, mentoring staff, and helping to shape the future of our mining biogeochemistry technical services.

In this role, you will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in mine water management, tailings management, and environmental biogeochemistry to deliver innovative solutions for mining clients across North America and beyond. You will provide technical leadership for geochemical characterization, mine waste and mine water investigations, laboratory and field testing programs, and predictive geochemical and hydrogeochemical modeling. You will be responsible for interpreting complex geochemical, environmental, hydrogeological, and biogeochemical datasets; preparing and reviewing high-quality technical deliverables; and ensuring that work products meet RESPEC’s high standards for technical quality, consistency, and excellence.

The Senior Geochemist will help grow RESPEC’s mining geochemistry and biogeochemistry practice by identifying and pursuing opportunities with existing and prospective clients; supporting technical and commercial proposals; strengthening industry and client relationships; identifying new opportunities; and contributing to and collaborating with RESPEC teams across offices and business units on strategic pursuits. This role will also represent RESPEC through professional organizations, conferences, publications, presentations, and other industry engagement activities, as appropriate.

This role offers opportunities for career growth and advancement for individuals who demonstrate strong technical expertise, leadership capabilities, and a commitment to delivering exceptional results. Successful candidates will foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team environment by supporting the career development and guidance of junior to mid-level geochemists and scientists. Over time, the successful candidate will have opportunities to contribute to strategic initiatives within RESPEC’s mine water and tailings management team and take on increasing levels of technical and practice leadership responsibility.

We do not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters

Qualifications

Required

• Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Geochemistry, Geology, Hydrogeology, Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related discipline
• Minimum 5+ years of experience in mining geochemistry or environmental consulting
• Demonstrated expertise in managing technical consulting projects
• Excellent technical writing, verbal, and presentation abilities
• Client management and business development track record
• Professional Geologist (PG/P.Geo) registration or ability to obtain
• Experience conducting or overseeing predictive geochemical and hydrogeochemical modeling studies
• Proven ability to lead complex technical projects and multidisciplinary teams
• Strong client relationship and business development skills
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel as needed

Preferred

• 10+ years of experience in mining geochemistry or environmental consulting
• Established professional network within the mining industry
• Strong background in geochemical characterization and interpretation
• Experience with mine water quality prediction and geochemical modeling
• Track record of technical publications, conference presentations, or industry leadership
• Other relevant technical expertise:
  • Geochemical modeling software (PHREEQC, Geochemist's Workbench, MIN3P, GoldSim, or similar tools)
  • Geochemical testing programs and laboratory oversight
  • Environmental microbiology and/or biogeochemistry-related projects
  • Code-based data analysis workflows (Python, R, SQL)

Additional Information

Compensation: Salary depends on experience and expertise. The typical salary range for this position is $100k to $130k. Compensation includes a comprehensive fringe-benefits package. RESPEC is a 100% employee-owned company and employees are eligible for participation in the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) after a qualifying period.

Featured benefits include:

• Flexible Work Schedules
• Paid Parental Leave
• 401(k) & ESOP (with company match up to 4%)
• Professional Development and Training
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program
• Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance Plans

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Company Info

Big challenges need bold thinkers.

If you’re someone who sees problems as opportunities, you’ll thrive here. RESPEC is 100% employee-owned, which means we take ownership of every challenge. Here, your ideas drive real solutions. Since 1969, we’ve tackled complex challenges in energy transition, infrastructure resilience, digital transformation, and sustainability.

At RESPEC, you’ll work alongside clients to take on critical problems. Depending on your expertise, you might design infrastructure in remote locations, develop renewable energy solutions for global projects, or apply data-driven technology to improve mining and water systems.

We bring deep technical knowledge, real-world experience, and a commitment to work that matters. If you're looking for a place where your contributions have real impact, you’ll fit right in.