Principal Geologist - Mineral Exploration

Placements24; Kimberley; On-site; CAD 172,000 - 258,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus potential

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Geologist to lead mineral exploration initiatives in Kimberley, South Africa. The role involves designing and executing exploration programs, interpreting geological data, and guiding field teams across base metals and critical minerals.

The successful candidate will drive 3D modeling, resource estimation, and reporting for management and stakeholders, while ensuring HSE compliance and regulatory engagement. Relocation to Kimberley is expected.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Geology or related Earth Science field.
• 10+ years in mineral exploration with base metals/critical minerals focus.
• Proven track record in discovering and defining mineral resources.
• Expertise in 3D geological modeling and resource estimation.
• Proficiency with Leapfrog, Vulcan, ArcGIS.

Responsibilities

• Design and manage exploration programs for base metals and critical minerals.
• Lead field teams of geologists, technicians, and survey crews.
• Perform geological mapping, structural analysis, and data interpretation.
• Use Leapfrog, Vulcan, and ArcGIS for 3D modeling and resource estimation.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to management.
• Coordinate budgets and timelines for exploration projects.
• Collaborate with consultants, research institutions, and regulators.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental and community standards.
• Mentor junior geologists and drive team development.
• Stay updated on new exploration technologies.

Skills

Leadership

Geology

Mineral exploration

Team supervision

Education

Master's or PhD in Geology

Tools

Leapfrog

Vulcan

ArcGIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic mining and energy exploration company, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Geologist to lead mineral exploration initiatives in the Kimberley, Northern Cape region. This senior role is pivotal in identifying and evaluating new mineral resource opportunities, particularly in base metals and critical minerals. You will be responsible for designing and executing exploration programs, interpreting geological data, managing field teams, and contributing to the company's strategic growth. The position requires extensive field experience and a deep understanding of geological modeling and exploration techniques. This is a full-time, on-site role based in our Kimberley operations, offering a chance to work in a region rich with geological potential. We are committed to responsible resource development and fostering a culture of scientific excellence and innovation within the extractive industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and manage comprehensive geological exploration programs for base metals and critical minerals.
• Conduct detailed geological mapping, structural analysis, and data interpretation.
• Oversee and guide field teams, including geologists, technicians, and survey crews.
• Utilize geological software for 3D modeling, resource estimation, and data management (e.g., Leapfrog, Vulcan, ArcGIS).
• Analyze geochemical and geophysical data to identify potential ore bodies.
• Develop and manage exploration budgets and timelines, ensuring efficient resource allocation.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for management and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with external consultants, research institutions, and regulatory bodies.
• Ensure all exploration activities comply with health, safety, environmental, and community engagement standards.
• Mentor junior geologists and contribute to the technical development of the exploration team.
• Stay abreast of new exploration technologies and methodologies relevant to mineral and energy resources.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Geology, Economic Geology, or a related Earth Science field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration, with a strong focus on base metals and/or critical minerals.
• Demonstrated success in discovering and defining mineral resources.
• Expertise in geological modeling, 3D visualization, and resource estimation techniques.
• Proficiency in industry-standard geological software and data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of structural geology, geochemistry, and geophysics.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and team supervision skills.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Proven ability to work effectively in challenging field conditions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with diverse stakeholders.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Kimberley for this full-time role.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, significant bonus potential tied to exploration success, comprehensive medical aid, and a substantial retirement fund. Opportunities for professional development, including attending international conferences and specialized training, are provided. This role is based in Kimberley , offering direct engagement with the region's significant mineral and energy resource potential. Join a company that values scientific rigor and contributes to the sustainable development of vital natural resources.