Lead Exploration Geochemist

Placements24; United States; Remote; USD 72,000 - 114,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement provisions

Performance incentives

Relocation assistance

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 client in Randburg, Gauteng seeks a Lead Exploration Geochemist to design and manage geochemical exploration programs that generate high-quality drill targets. You will lead sample collection, lab analysis, data interpretation, and data integration to guide exploration decisions.

You will mentor junior geochemists, oversee field teams, and collaborate with geologists and geophysicists. Travel for fieldwork is required, with a focus on advancing mineral discoveries.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Geochemistry, Geology, or related Earth Science.
• 8–10 years of progressive mineral exploration geochemistry experience.
• Experience with ICP-MS, XRF, and AAS analytical techniques.
• Proficient in R, SPSS and GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS).
• Strong understanding of mineral deposit models and geochemical signatures.
• Experience with exploration database management systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and data visualization skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication; mentoring能力.
• Willingness to travel for fieldwork.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement geochemical exploration programs (soil, stream sediment, rock chip, etc.).
• Oversee sample collection and laboratory analysis with QA/QC.
• Interpret geochemical data using statistics, multivariate analysis, and GIS.
• Integrate geochemical data with geological, geophysical and remote sensing datasets to define targets.
• Develop and manage exploration geochemistry databases.
• Supervise field teams involved in sampling and reconnaissance.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and recommendations for exploration strategies.
• Stay current with advancements in geochemistry and analytical technologies.
• Collaborate with geologists, geophysicists and other personnel.
• Mentor junior geochemists and field technicians.

Skills

Geochemistry expertise

Target generation

Statistical analysis

GIS

Data visualization

Communication skills

Team leadership

Field travel

Education

MSc or PhD in Geochemistry/Geology

Tools

ICP-MS

XRF

AAS

R

SPSS

ArcGIS

QGIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and growing mining company, is seeking an experienced Lead Exploration Geochemist to join their team based in Randburg, Gauteng. This senior role is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing geochemical exploration programs aimed at identifying new mineral deposits. The Lead Geochemist will oversee sample collection, laboratory analysis, data interpretation, and the integration of geochemical data with other exploration datasets to generate high-quality drill targets. The successful candidate will possess a deep understanding of the chemical processes governing ore formation and dispersion, coupled with expertise in various analytical techniques and statistical modeling. Working in the major commercial center of Randburg, you will be part of a team dedicated to discovering and developing the next generation of mining assets. We are looking for an innovative and analytical leader who can guide exploration strategies and mentor junior geochemists, ensuring the efficient and effective application of geochemical exploration methods.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute comprehensive geochemical exploration programs (e.g., soil, stream sediment, rock chip, and biogeochemical surveys).
• Select appropriate analytical methods and laboratories, ensuring quality control and assurance.
• Interpret complex geochemical data using statistical methods, multivariate analysis, and GIS tools.
• Integrate geochemical data with geological, geophysical, and remote sensing data to define exploration targets.
• Develop and manage exploration geochemistry databases.
• Supervise field teams involved in sample collection and site reconnaissance.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for exploration strategies.
• Stay current with advancements in exploration geochemistry and analytical technologies.
• Collaborate with geologists, geophysicists, and other exploration personnel.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior geochemists and field technicians.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or Ph.D. in Geochemistry, Geology, or a related Earth Science discipline.
• A minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration geochemistry, with demonstrated success in target generation.
• Expertise in various geochemical sampling media and analytical techniques (e.g., ICP-MS, XRF, AAS).
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software (e.g., R, SPSS) and GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS).
• Strong understanding of mineral deposit models and their geochemical signatures.
• Experience with exploration database management systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and data visualization skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and manage multiple projects.
• Willingness to travel for fieldwork as required.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement provisions, and performance incentives.
• The hybrid work model provides flexibility for strategic planning and data analysis while accommodating field-based activities.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement are significant.
• Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.
• Join a company committed to responsible exploration and the discovery of valuable mineral resources.