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Tesla
Hydrogeologist, Lithium Refining
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What they do
A Geologist studies the materials and physical structure of the earth. Specializes in studying rocks, minerals and gems, or natural resources beneath the surface of the earth such as oil and gas. Collects field samples, studies areas for potential building or mining projects, and analyzes history of rock and fossil layers.
$83,817 / year median in Texas
Job Description
What to Expect Tesla's mission depends on securing the critical minerals and resources needed to accelerate the world's transition to sustainable energy. We are looking for a Hydrogeologist to join a multidisciplinary team supporting mineral resource evaluation, refinery operations, and regulatory compliance across our energy, mineral, and industrial assets. In this role, you will investigate subsurface water resources — from lithium-bearing brines to process water supply and wastewater injection — helping Tesla unlock new sources of critical materials, secure reliable water for operations, and stay ahead of regulatory requirements. What You'll Do Evaluate mineral rights holdings for lithium-bearing brines and underground waters, reviewing well logs, production data, geochemical assays, and geophysical data to characterize brine chemistry and aquifer/reservoir properties Design and oversee exploration and production testing, including drilling, core sampling, pumping tests, fluid sampling, and density-affected flow and transport modeling Build 3D geologic and numerical groundwater models to estimate lithium resources and reserves in line with industry reporting standards (e.g., NI 43-101, JORC) Assess mineral, water, and produced-water rights ownership nuances, and support lease reviews and correlative rights analyses Evaluate lithium extraction feasibility, including Direct Lithium Extraction, and assess hydrogeological impacts on surrounding systems Characterize aquifers and site, design, and test process water supply wells for refinery operations, including capture zone modeling and long-term sustainable yield analysis Characterize deep injection zones for wastewater disposal wells, evaluating injectivity, capacity, geochemical compatibility, and seismic risk while protecting Underground Sources of Drinking Water (USDWs) Design well construction, casing, and cementing programs, and develop monitoring plans for water supply and injection wells Compile technical exhibits and support permit applications for water wells, water rights, mineral leases, and Class