Geochemist at RESPEC in Reno, NV

Company Description

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.

Job Description

RESPEC is seeking an experienced Geochemist to provide technical leadership within our growing mining geochemistry and biogeochemistry consulting practice. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to complex projects, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and support the continued growth of our geochemistry services. The position is open to candidates located in the United States and Canada, with flexible options to work remotely or from one of RESPEC’s office locations. Periodic travel will be required to support client engagements, industry conferences, field activities, and in-person collaboration with team members as needed.

What makes RESPEC’s Biogeochemistry team unique? We are a growing, forward-looking team dedicated to solving complex mining and environmental challenges. We’re seeking an experienced geochemist who thrives in a consulting environment, embraces new opportunities, and is excited to bring creativity and innovation to their work while helping shape the future of our biogeochemistry practice. This is an excellent opportunity to lead impactful projects, mentor and develop emerging professionals, and deliver innovative solutions that advance our technical services and create value for our clients.

In this role, you will be part of a multidisciplinary team and will collaborate with industry-leading professionals across mine water management, tailing management, and environmental sciences to deliver innovative solutions for mining clients throughout North America and beyond. You will lead geochemical characterization programs, predictive geochemical modeling efforts, and biogeochemical treatment projects while supporting client development and the growth of our multidisciplinary team.

This role offers significant 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 have the opportunity to expand their influence within RESPEC's mine water and tailings management team, contribute to strategic initiatives, and take on increasing levels of technical and practice leadership responsibility.

Key responsibilities include:

Technical Leadership

• Lead the design and execution of geochemical characterization programs for mining projects
• Direct laboratory and field investigations related to mine waste, mine water, and biogeochemical processes
• Interpret geochemical, environmental, hydrogeological, and biogeochemical datasets
• Conduct and oversee predictive geochemical and hydrogeochemical modeling studies
• Lead the design, construction, operation, and interpretation of laboratory testing programs
• Review technical analyses and deliverables prepared by junior and mid-level staff
• Prepare and review technical reports, memoranda, presentations, and client deliverables
• Ensure technical quality, consistency, and excellence across projects
• Contribute to industry advancement through technical publications and conference presentations

Project Management

• Manage projects from initiation through completion, ensuring delivery on scope, schedule, budget, and quality objectives
• Coordinate multidisciplinary project teams across technical disciplines
• Maintain strong relationships with clients, regulators, and project stakeholders
• Support project planning, forecasting, invoicing, and financial performance
• Ensure all work is completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with company standards

Business Development

• Identify and pursue opportunities with existing and prospective mining clients
• Develop and strengthen relationships with clients, industry partners, regulators, and stakeholders
• Prepare technical and commercial proposals
• Support strategic growth initiatives and account development plans
• Collaborate with RESPEC teams across offices and business units on project pursuits
• Represent RESPEC at industry conferences, professional organizations, and networking events

Mentorship & Team Development

• Mentor and support the growth of geochemists, scientists, and technical staff
• Assist with recruiting, hiring, and onboarding activities
• Provide career development guidance and performance coaching
• Conduct regular one-on-one meetings and support workload planning
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team environment

Health & Safety

• Promote and support a strong safety culture across projects and operations
• Participate in health and safety training and initiatives
• Support laboratory health and safety programs
• Investigate and document incidents, near misses, and corrective actions as needed

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.