Principal Geologist - Energy Exploration

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 103,000 - 155,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Annual leave

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Geologist with extensive energy exploration experience to join a dynamic independent energy company in Kimberley, Northern Cape. You will lead exploration programs, interpret seismic data, and develop subsurface models to guide investment decisions.

The role requires a Master’s or PhD in Geology, 10+ years in geological exploration, and proficiency with Petrel, Kingdom Suite, or Move. Travel to project sites will be expected.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Geology or Earth Sciences.
• 10+ years of relevant energy exploration experience.
• Subsurface modeling and seismic interpretation expertise.
• Experience with multi-source data integration (geophysical, well, geochemical).
• Strong written and verbal communication; leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead geological and geophysical exploration programs.
• Interpret seismic, well logs, core samples, and surveys.
• Develop and refine subsurface geological models for resource assessment.
• Assess exploration risks and mitigation strategies.
• Mentor junior geologists and guide technical staff.
• Prepare technical reports and resource estimates for management.

Skills

Geology

Geophysical interpretation

Analytical thinking

Leadership

Mentoring

Communication

Travel willingness

Education

Master's degree in Geology

PhD in Geology

Tools

Petrel

Kingdom Suite

Move

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic independent energy company focused on sustainable resource development, is seeking a Principal Geologist with extensive experience in energy exploration to join their team in Kimberley, Northern Cape . This senior position will play a crucial role in identifying, evaluating, and characterizing potential energy resources, utilizing advanced geological and geophysical techniques. You will lead exploration initiatives, interpret complex subsurface data, and provide critical geological insights to guide strategic investment decisions. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of geological processes, subsurface modeling, and exploration risk assessment, with a strong preference for experience in renewable or conventional energy exploration. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking projects in a region rich with potential, working within a collaborative and forward-thinking organization. Join us in shaping the future of energy exploration from the heart of the Northern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead geological and geophysical exploration programs to identify and evaluate new energy resource prospects.
• Interpret a wide range of geological data, including seismic, well logs, core samples, and surface surveys.
• Develop and refine detailed subsurface geological models for resource characterization and assessment.
• Assess exploration risks and uncertainties, and develop strategies for mitigation.
• Collaborate closely with geophysicists, reservoir engineers, and drilling engineers throughout the exploration lifecycle.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, geological assessments, and resource estimates for management and investment committees.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in geological exploration technologies and methodologies.
• Mentor junior geologists and provide technical guidance on geological interpretation and analysis.
• Contribute to the development of company exploration strategies and play a key role in prospect generation.
• Ensure adherence to all relevant health, safety, and environmental standards in exploration activities.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Geology, Earth Sciences, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in geological exploration, preferably within the energy sector (oil & gas, geothermal, or critical minerals).
• Proven expertise in subsurface geological modeling and interpretation using industry-standard software (e.g., Petrel, Kingdom Suite, Move).
• Strong background in seismic interpretation, sequence stratigraphy, and structural geology.
• Experience with data integration from multiple sources (geophysical, well, geochemical).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and experience mentoring technical teams.
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks governing exploration activities in South Africa is a plus.
• Willingness to travel to project sites as required.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous annual leave and professional development opportunities.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering a balance between office and remote work.
• Opportunity to work on exciting and challenging exploration projects.
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions.
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment in Kimberley .