Chief Mine Geologist

Placements24; Southampton; Hybrid; GBP 113,000 - 158,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive bonus

Health insurance

Retirement plan

International travel

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Chief Mine Geologist to lead the geological team in Randburg, supervising resource estimation, grade control, and exploration within tenement boundaries. Drive strategic mine planning, ensure economic viability, and oversee a skilled geology group in a hybrid on-site/office setting.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s or PhD in Geology with 10+ years in mine geology and leadership, and proficiency in Leapfrog, Vulcan, ArcGIS.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Geology, Economic Geology, or a related earth science discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mine geology, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or supervisory role.
• Proficiency in Leapfrog Geo, Vulcan, ArcGIS, SQL databases.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the mine geology department, including personnel, budgets, and resources.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of geological models and resource estimates.
• Implement grade control procedures to optimize mining selectivity and reconciliation.
• Direct geological exploration activities within tenement holdings.
• Ensure high standards of geological data acquisition, validation, and management.

Skills

Leadership

Mine geology expertise

Resource estimation

Geological modeling

Exploration targeting

Geological software Leapfrog

ArcGIS

SQL databases

Education

Master's or PhD in Geology/Earth Science

Tools

Leapfrog Geo

Vulcan

ArcGIS

SQL

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent and expanding mining operation, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Chief Mine Geologist to lead their geological team in the bustling hub of Randburg, Gauteng . This senior role carries significant responsibility for overseeing all geological aspects of the mine's operations, from resource estimation and grade control to exploration within the tenement boundaries. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership skills, a deep understanding of geological principles applied to mining, and a proven track record in managing diverse geological teams and projects. You will play a critical role in strategic mine planning, ensuring the economic viability and sustainable extraction of mineral resources. This position involves a hybrid work arrangement, requiring regular engagement with on‑site operations near Randburg while also providing strategic leadership from their administrative offices. Our client is committed to employing cutting‑edge geological technologies and fostering a collaborative, high‑performance culture. This is an unparalleled opportunity to shape the geological future of a significant mining enterprise in Randburg .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the mine geology department, including personnel, budgets, and resources.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of accurate geological models and resource estimates.
• Implement and refine grade control procedures to optimize mining selectivity and reconciliation.
• Direct and supervise geological exploration activities within the company's tenement holdings.
• Ensure the highest standards of geological data acquisition, validation, and management.
• Collaborate closely with mine planning, operations, and processing departments to align geological activities with production goals.
• Provide expert geological advice and technical support to senior management.
• Stay abreast of advancements in geological modeling, exploration techniques, and mining technologies.
• Foster a culture of safety, continuous improvement, and professional development within the geology team.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant mining legislation, reporting standards (e.g., JORC, NI 43-101), and company policies.
• Conduct site visits and field assessments as required to support the hybrid nature of the role.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD degree in Geology, Economic Geology, or a related earth science discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mine geology, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or supervisory role.
• Demonstrated expertise in resource estimation, grade control, geological modeling, and exploration targeting.
• Proficiency in relevant geological software suites (e.g., Leapfrog Geo, Vulcan, ArcGIS, SQL databases).
• Strong understanding of various deposit types and their geological controls.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to develop and execute geological strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Experience with international reporting codes is highly advantageous.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing office and site responsibilities.
• Registered professional geologist with a recognized body.

Benefits

• Executive-level salary and significant performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive executive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement fund contributions and long-term incentive plans.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• Generous paid time off and leave benefits.
• The chance to lead a critical function within a successful and growing mining company.
• Supportive executive leadership and a high-caliber team.