Exploration Manager
SOC 11-9199.01 · ESCO 1349 · OSCA 149332
Role snapshot
Overview
Plans and directs geological or mineral exploration programs, managing field teams, interpreting survey data, and deciding where to drill or sample to find viable resource deposits. This role involves strategic planning, budget management, risk assessment, and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations, crucial for identifying and developing natural resources.
Crucial for identifying and quantifying natural resource deposits, contributing directly to the economic viability of mining and energy sectors and ensuring a sustainable supply of raw materials.
On the job
- Develop and implement exploration strategies and work programs for mineral or geological resources.
- Manage and lead multidisciplinary exploration teams in field operations and office-based data analysis.
- Interpret complex geological, geophysical, and geochemical data to identify potential resource targets.
- Prepare detailed budgets, schedules, and reports for exploration projects, ensuring cost-effectiveness and timely completion.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards during exploration activities.
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
StableDemand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.
Education & training
Bachelor's or Master's degree in geology, geophysics, mining engineering, or a related earth science field is typically required.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Exploration Manager
Hospitality & Food Service
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
enterprising · ECI
People who enjoy leading teams, making strategic decisions, and systematically analyzing complex data to solve scientific problems tend to thrive in this role.
Personality characteristics
Organized
Systematically plans complex exploration programs, manages budgets, and ensures all data is meticulously recorded and analyzed.
Decisive
Comfortable making critical decisions based on often incomplete data, guiding exploration efforts and resource allocation.
Analytical
Possesses a strong desire to understand complex geological systems and interpret scientific data to identify viable deposits.
Calm under pressure
Maintains composure when facing unexpected challenges in the field, budget constraints, or project setbacks.
Collaborative
Works effectively with diverse teams, stakeholders, and external partners to achieve exploration goals.
Best for
- Individuals who are driven to discover natural resources and enjoy the strategic challenge of exploration.
- Leaders who thrive in dynamic environments, managing both people and complex scientific data.
- Professionals who are meticulous in planning and analysis but also adaptable to changing field conditions.
Watch out for
- Regular travel and potential for extended periods in remote field locations may be challenging for some.
- The role demands high responsibility and decision-making under uncertainty, which can be stressful.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Exploration Manager — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
FREE ASSESSMENT
Does Exploration Manager fit you?
Measure your personality and interests, then see how this career ranks against 1,300+ others — for you personally.
Take the free assessment →