Geochemist Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Geochemist roles qualify for H-1B visa and other work visa sponsorship as specialty occupations requiring scientific expertise. Major oil companies, environmental consulting firms, and mining corporations regularly sponsor international geochemists. Your geology, geochemistry, or related earth sciences degree directly supports visa eligibility requirements. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
Find Geochemist JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 28+ Geochemist jobs
See all Geochemist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Geochemist roles.
Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Battelle delivers when others can’t. We conduct research and development, manage national laboratories, design and manufacture products and deliver critical services for our clients—whether they are a multi-national corporation, a small start-up or a government agency.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Summary
Battelle is seeking an experienced and dynamic Senior Geochemist - Critical Minerals & Remediation with expertise in mining, critical minerals recovery, mineral processing, and industrial waste materials management, treatment, and beneficial use/reuse as part of site remediation. Candidates based near Columbus, Ohio are preferred, with the opportunity to work hybrid at Battelle Headquarters; however, remote candidates will also be considered.
The Environment and Agriculture (E&A) Business Line supports government and commercial clients through environmental services and contract research, focusing on site characterization, risk assessment, and remediation. A key strength of E&A is developing innovative solutions to complex environmental challenges through thought leadership, cutting-edge applied science, and research and development (R&D).
The selected candidate will drive innovative work in contaminant treatment and critical minerals recovery during site remediation and industrial waste management, while supporting the growth of a sustainable waste management and treatment practice area. This role requires providing technical and strategic leadership to Battelle's efforts in evaluating and developing technologies related to critical minerals recovery, contributing engineering and geochemistry expertise to technical projects, and sustaining and growing client relationships in the mining and legacy mine site remediation industries.
This position requires a seasoned expert with a geosciences toolbox that can be broadly applied across the wide range of clients and projects Battelle supports. Candidates with related experience and an interest in innovative solutions for the treatment and beneficial use/reuse of mining and industrial waste materials are encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities
- Support market strategy to address critical minerals and rare earth elements industry-specific needs through client engagement
- Support the Emerging Contaminants initiative by coordinating tactical plans for sector-specific targets
- Drive collaboration in research and development and funding through internal R&D programs and external partnerships to better meet industry needs
- Serve as a client-facing senior geochemist or engineer for technology demonstrations evaluating critical minerals recovery technologies from mine waste during site remediation
- Develop technical approaches for assessing performance and operational metrics to guide decision-making in technology selection and implementation during site remediation
- Conduct geochemical modeling for groundwater and surface water, along with fate and transport modeling associated with metals and other contaminants in soil and sediment
- Serve as a technical expert in developing and reviewing site characterization and remedial investigation documents for diverse clients
- Apply expert knowledge of CERCLA and Superfund site Remedial Investigations and Feasibility Studies to diverse projects
- Actively represent Battelle in industry associations and at conferences, engaging with mining, remediation, and mineral and materials processing/manufacturing industries
- Demonstrate cutting-edge knowledge in the treatment of contaminant metals in aqueous and solid mining waste and recovery of critical minerals
- Attract and develop talent to expand Battelle's site characterization and remediation practice area
- Manage cost-reimbursable, firm-fixed-price, time and materials, and performance-based remediation contracts
- Maintain a strong understanding of applicable regulations and the evolving regulatory environment as it applies to remediation, particularly in mining, minerals processing, and materials manufacturing/processing (e.g., semiconductor industry)
Key Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in geosciences or engineering with five (5) years of experience, master's degree with two (2) years of experience, or PhD; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
- Geochemistry experience, particularly with state-of-the-practice modeling programs
- Recognized expertise in remediation, including mining, with working knowledge of CERCLA, RCRA, and other applicable federal laws
- Experience working with the federal government performing and managing contaminated site assessments and remedy evaluations, including preparing investigation work plans, design analysis, feasibility studies, treatability studies, removal action work plans, remedy design, and remedy implementation
- Demonstrated client liaison and business development skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills
- Travel up to 25% annually to client locations and conferences
- Applicants must be a U.S. Person as defined by U.S. export control laws
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in geosciences or engineering with ten (10) years of experience, master's degree with eight (8) years of experience, or PhD with three (3) years of experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
- Ten (10) years of experience successfully managing projects, programs, and/or people
- Experience with commercial industries and state/local governments
- Advanced degree in environmental/civil engineering or a closely related field, along with a Registered Professional Engineer (PE) designation
- Current OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER and MSHA training and refreshers
- Enthusiasm for working in innovative environments and developing technology to solve complex problems
Compensation Data
- Battelle is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The salary range for this role is $106,000 to $151,000 per year, in addition to our comprehensive benefits package. A candidate’s salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to education, relevant work experience, skills, and certifications. Salary ranges may vary based on geographic location and market conditions.
Benefits: Live an Extraordinary Life
We care about your well-being, not just on the job. Battelle offers comprehensive and competitive benefits to help you live your best life.
- Balance life through a compressed work schedule: Most of our team follows a flexible, compressed work schedule that allows for every other Friday off—giving you a dedicated day to accomplish things in your personal life without using vacation time.
- Enjoy enhanced work flexibility, including a hybrid arrangement: You have options for where and when you work. Our Together with Flexibility model allows you to work 60% in-office and 40% remote, with Monday and Tuesday as common in-office days, dependent on team and position needs.
- Take time to recharge: You get paid time off to support work-life balance and keep motivated.
- Prioritize wellness: Stay healthy with medical, dental, and vision coverage with wellness incentives and benefits plus a variety of optional supplemental benefits.
- Better together: Coverage for partners, gender-affirming care and health support, and family formation support.
- Build your financial future: Build financial stability with an industry-leading 401(k) retirement savings plan. For most employees, we put in 5 percent whether you contribute or not, and match your contributions on top of that.
- Advance your education: Tuition assistance is available to pursue higher education.
A Work Environment Where You Succeed
For brilliant minds in science, technology, engineering and business operations, Battelle is the place to do the greatest good by solving humanity’s most pressing challenges and creating a safer, healthier and more secure world.
You will have the opportunity to thrive in a culture that inspires you to:
- Apply your talent to challenging and meaningful projects
- Receive select funding to pursue ideas in scientific and technological discovery
- Partner with world-class experts in a collaborative environment
- Nurture and develop the next generation of scientific leaders
- Give back to and improve our communities
Vaccinations & Safety Protocols
Battelle may require employees, based on job duties, work location, and/or its clients’ requirements to follow certain safety protocols and to be vaccinated against a variety of viruses, bacteria, and diseases as a condition of employment and continued employment and to provide documentation that they are fully vaccinated. If applicable, Battelle will provide reasonable accommodations based on a qualified disability or medical condition through the Americans with Disabilities Act or the Rehabilitation Act or for a sincerely held religious belief under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (and related state laws).
Battelle is an equal opportunity employer. We provide employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, genetic information, disability, veteran-status veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable Federal, state, or local law. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle.
The above statements are intended to describe the nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, activities and skills required of staff members. No statement herein is intended to imply any authorities to commit Battelle unless special written permission is granted by Battelle's Legal Department.
INTRODUCTION
Battelle delivers when others can’t. We conduct research and development, manage national laboratories, design and manufacture products and deliver critical services for our clients—whether they are a multi-national corporation, a small start-up or a government agency.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Summary
Battelle is seeking an experienced and dynamic Senior Geochemist - Critical Minerals & Remediation with expertise in mining, critical minerals recovery, mineral processing, and industrial waste materials management, treatment, and beneficial use/reuse as part of site remediation. Candidates based near Columbus, Ohio are preferred, with the opportunity to work hybrid at Battelle Headquarters; however, remote candidates will also be considered.
The Environment and Agriculture (E&A) Business Line supports government and commercial clients through environmental services and contract research, focusing on site characterization, risk assessment, and remediation. A key strength of E&A is developing innovative solutions to complex environmental challenges through thought leadership, cutting-edge applied science, and research and development (R&D).
The selected candidate will drive innovative work in contaminant treatment and critical minerals recovery during site remediation and industrial waste management, while supporting the growth of a sustainable waste management and treatment practice area. This role requires providing technical and strategic leadership to Battelle's efforts in evaluating and developing technologies related to critical minerals recovery, contributing engineering and geochemistry expertise to technical projects, and sustaining and growing client relationships in the mining and legacy mine site remediation industries.
This position requires a seasoned expert with a geosciences toolbox that can be broadly applied across the wide range of clients and projects Battelle supports. Candidates with related experience and an interest in innovative solutions for the treatment and beneficial use/reuse of mining and industrial waste materials are encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities
- Support market strategy to address critical minerals and rare earth elements industry-specific needs through client engagement
- Support the Emerging Contaminants initiative by coordinating tactical plans for sector-specific targets
- Drive collaboration in research and development and funding through internal R&D programs and external partnerships to better meet industry needs
- Serve as a client-facing senior geochemist or engineer for technology demonstrations evaluating critical minerals recovery technologies from mine waste during site remediation
- Develop technical approaches for assessing performance and operational metrics to guide decision-making in technology selection and implementation during site remediation
- Conduct geochemical modeling for groundwater and surface water, along with fate and transport modeling associated with metals and other contaminants in soil and sediment
- Serve as a technical expert in developing and reviewing site characterization and remedial investigation documents for diverse clients
- Apply expert knowledge of CERCLA and Superfund site Remedial Investigations and Feasibility Studies to diverse projects
- Actively represent Battelle in industry associations and at conferences, engaging with mining, remediation, and mineral and materials processing/manufacturing industries
- Demonstrate cutting-edge knowledge in the treatment of contaminant metals in aqueous and solid mining waste and recovery of critical minerals
- Attract and develop talent to expand Battelle's site characterization and remediation practice area
- Manage cost-reimbursable, firm-fixed-price, time and materials, and performance-based remediation contracts
- Maintain a strong understanding of applicable regulations and the evolving regulatory environment as it applies to remediation, particularly in mining, minerals processing, and materials manufacturing/processing (e.g., semiconductor industry)
Key Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in geosciences or engineering with five (5) years of experience, master's degree with two (2) years of experience, or PhD; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
- Geochemistry experience, particularly with state-of-the-practice modeling programs
- Recognized expertise in remediation, including mining, with working knowledge of CERCLA, RCRA, and other applicable federal laws
- Experience working with the federal government performing and managing contaminated site assessments and remedy evaluations, including preparing investigation work plans, design analysis, feasibility studies, treatability studies, removal action work plans, remedy design, and remedy implementation
- Demonstrated client liaison and business development skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills
- Travel up to 25% annually to client locations and conferences
- Applicants must be a U.S. Person as defined by U.S. export control laws
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in geosciences or engineering with ten (10) years of experience, master's degree with eight (8) years of experience, or PhD with three (3) years of experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
- Ten (10) years of experience successfully managing projects, programs, and/or people
- Experience with commercial industries and state/local governments
- Advanced degree in environmental/civil engineering or a closely related field, along with a Registered Professional Engineer (PE) designation
- Current OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER and MSHA training and refreshers
- Enthusiasm for working in innovative environments and developing technology to solve complex problems
Compensation Data
- Battelle is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The salary range for this role is $106,000 to $151,000 per year, in addition to our comprehensive benefits package. A candidate’s salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to education, relevant work experience, skills, and certifications. Salary ranges may vary based on geographic location and market conditions.
Benefits: Live an Extraordinary Life
We care about your well-being, not just on the job. Battelle offers comprehensive and competitive benefits to help you live your best life.
- Balance life through a compressed work schedule: Most of our team follows a flexible, compressed work schedule that allows for every other Friday off—giving you a dedicated day to accomplish things in your personal life without using vacation time.
- Enjoy enhanced work flexibility, including a hybrid arrangement: You have options for where and when you work. Our Together with Flexibility model allows you to work 60% in-office and 40% remote, with Monday and Tuesday as common in-office days, dependent on team and position needs.
- Take time to recharge: You get paid time off to support work-life balance and keep motivated.
- Prioritize wellness: Stay healthy with medical, dental, and vision coverage with wellness incentives and benefits plus a variety of optional supplemental benefits.
- Better together: Coverage for partners, gender-affirming care and health support, and family formation support.
- Build your financial future: Build financial stability with an industry-leading 401(k) retirement savings plan. For most employees, we put in 5 percent whether you contribute or not, and match your contributions on top of that.
- Advance your education: Tuition assistance is available to pursue higher education.
A Work Environment Where You Succeed
For brilliant minds in science, technology, engineering and business operations, Battelle is the place to do the greatest good by solving humanity’s most pressing challenges and creating a safer, healthier and more secure world.
You will have the opportunity to thrive in a culture that inspires you to:
- Apply your talent to challenging and meaningful projects
- Receive select funding to pursue ideas in scientific and technological discovery
- Partner with world-class experts in a collaborative environment
- Nurture and develop the next generation of scientific leaders
- Give back to and improve our communities
Vaccinations & Safety Protocols
Battelle may require employees, based on job duties, work location, and/or its clients’ requirements to follow certain safety protocols and to be vaccinated against a variety of viruses, bacteria, and diseases as a condition of employment and continued employment and to provide documentation that they are fully vaccinated. If applicable, Battelle will provide reasonable accommodations based on a qualified disability or medical condition through the Americans with Disabilities Act or the Rehabilitation Act or for a sincerely held religious belief under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (and related state laws).
Battelle is an equal opportunity employer. We provide employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, genetic information, disability, veteran-status veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable Federal, state, or local law. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle.
The above statements are intended to describe the nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, activities and skills required of staff members. No statement herein is intended to imply any authorities to commit Battelle unless special written permission is granted by Battelle's Legal Department.
See all Geochemist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Geochemist roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Geochemist Jobs
Target extractive industry employers
Oil companies like ExxonMobil, Chevron, and BP frequently sponsor geochemists for exploration projects. Mining corporations and environmental remediation firms also have established sponsorship programs for geological specialists.
Emphasize specialized geochemical techniques
Highlight expertise in mass spectrometry, X-ray diffraction, or isotope analysis. Specialized laboratory skills and field sampling experience strengthen your case as requiring specialized knowledge unavailable domestically.
Consider environmental consulting pathway
Environmental firms like AECOM, Jacobs, and Tetra Tech sponsor geochemists for contamination assessment projects. Government contracts often require specific technical credentials that international candidates possess.
Location flexibility increases options
Geochemist positions cluster in Texas, California, Colorado, and Alaska. Being open to field assignments and remote locations significantly expands your pool of potential sponsoring employers.
Research experience strengthens applications
PhD-level research in petroleum geochemistry, environmental chemistry, or mineral deposits demonstrates extraordinary ability. Academic publications and conference presentations support both H-1B and O-1 visa pathways.
Professional certifications add credibility
Registered Professional Geologist certification or American Institute of Professional Geologists membership shows commitment to U.S. standards. These credentials help differentiate you from other international candidates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What degree do I need for geochemist visa sponsorship?
A bachelor's degree in geochemistry, geology, chemistry, or earth sciences meets H-1B visa requirements. Most positions prefer advanced degrees, with petroleum geochemistry and environmental chemistry being particularly valued specializations. Australian and European three-year geology degrees are generally accepted as equivalent to U.S. four-year programs.
Do geochemist roles qualify as specialty occupations?
Yes, geochemist positions consistently qualify as H-1B specialty occupations due to the specialized scientific knowledge required. The role requires understanding of chemical processes in geological systems, laboratory analytical techniques, and specialized software like Geochemist's Workbench or PHREEQC that aren't common knowledge.
How to find Geochemist jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Geochemist positions with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international professionals with sponsoring employers. Focus your search on mining companies, environmental consulting firms, oil and gas corporations, and research institutions that commonly hire geochemists. These employers frequently offer H-1B, O-1 visa, or other work visas for qualified geological scientists with specialized expertise in geochemistry.
Which industries sponsor geochemists most often?
Oil and gas companies lead in geochemist sponsorship, followed by environmental consulting firms and mining corporations. Petroleum companies need geochemists for reservoir analysis and exploration. Environmental firms sponsor for contamination assessment and remediation projects requiring specialized chemical analysis of soil and groundwater.
Can geochemists qualify for O-1 extraordinary ability visas?
PhD geochemists with significant research contributions, published papers, or specialized expertise in areas like isotope geochemistry may qualify for O-1 visas. Evidence includes peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, or recognition for developing new analytical techniques. Most entry-level positions stick with H-1B sponsorship.
Are there geographic limitations for geochemist sponsorship?
Geochemist opportunities concentrate in energy and mining regions like Texas, Colorado, California, and Alaska. Many positions involve field work at remote sites. Some employers require willingness to travel internationally for projects, which can complicate visa status but also demonstrates specialized expertise needed globally.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Geochemist jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.