Lead Exploration Geophysicist

Placements24; United States; Hybrid; USD 84,000 - 162,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus program

Health and retirement benefits

Career growth

Stock options

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Exploration Geophysicist to guide geophysical investigations for mineral exploration projects in Randburg, ZA. The role involves planning, acquisition, processing, and interpretation of gravity, magnetics, EM, and seismic data.

The ideal candidate will have a Master’s or PhD in Geophysics with 8+ years in exploration, strong modeling and leadership skills, and willingness to travel for site oversight.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Geophysics or related field.
• 8+ years of mineral exploration geophysics experience.
• Experience processing and interpreting multiple geophysical datasets (gravity, magnetics, EM, seismic, IP).
• Proficiency with Geophysical software packages (Geosoft Oasis Montaj, MAGPIE, EMIGMA, Velox).
• Strong understanding of geological controls on geophysical responses and structural geology.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Proven leadership capabilities and experience mentoring junior staff.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly.
• Willingness to travel to project sites for operational oversight and collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, acquisition, and processing of geophysical data for exploration projects.
• Develop geophysical exploration strategies and select appropriate survey methodologies based on geological targets.
• Perform advanced processing, interpretation, and inversion of geophysical data (gravity, magnetics, EM, seismic, etc.).
• Integrate geophysical data with geological, geochemical, and other datasets to generate and refine exploration targets.
• Utilize geophysical modeling software to interpret subsurface structures and lithology.
• Oversee geophysical contractors and ensure data quality standards are met.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior geophysicists and geological teams.
• Prepare comprehensive geophysical reports and presentations for management and stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of new geophysical technologies and methodologies and assess their applicability to exploration programs.
• Contribute to the overall exploration strategy and success of the company.

Skills

Geophysics expertise

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Education

Master's or PhD in Geophysics

Tools

Geosoft Oasis Montaj

MAGPIE

EMIGMA

Velox

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and growing exploration company, is seeking an accomplished Lead Exploration Geophysicist to join their team near **Randburg, Gauteng, ZA**. This hybrid role offers the opportunity to lead geophysical investigations for mineral exploration projects, from conceptual targeting to advanced data interpretation. You will be responsible for the planning, execution, and integration of various geophysical surveys, including seismic, magnetic, gravity, and electromagnetic methods. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in geophysical data processing, modeling, and inversion, with a strong understanding of how geophysics contributes to successful resource discovery. This is a chance to shape the exploration strategy and mentor a team of geophysicists.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, acquisition, and processing of geophysical data for exploration projects.
• Develop geophysical exploration strategies and select appropriate survey methodologies based on geological targets.
• Perform advanced processing, interpretation, and inversion of geophysical data (gravity, magnetics, EM, seismic, etc.).
• Integrate geophysical data with geological, geochemical, and other datasets to generate and refine exploration targets.
• Utilize geophysical modeling software (e.g., Geosoft Oasis Montaj, Maxwell) to interpret subsurface structures and lithology.
• Oversee geophysical contractors and ensure data quality standards are met.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior geophysicists and geological teams.
• Prepare comprehensive geophysical reports and presentations for management and stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of new geophysical technologies and methodologies and assess their applicability to exploration programs.
• Contribute to the overall exploration strategy and success of the company.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Geophysics, Exploration Geophysics, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration geophysics, with a proven track record of successful targeting.
• Expertise in processing and interpreting multiple geophysical datasets (gravity, magnetics, EM, seismic, IP).
• Proficiency with industry-standard geophysical software packages (e.g., Geosoft Oasis Montaj, MAGPIE, EMIGMA, Velox).
• Strong understanding of geological controls on geophysical responses and structural geology.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Proven leadership capabilities and experience mentoring junior staff.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly.
• Willingness to travel to project sites for operational oversight and collaboration.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and bonus structure.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, retirement, and life insurance.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and leadership.
• Exposure to a wide range of geological settings and commodity types.
• Support for professional development and conference attendance.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment with leading experts.
• Potential for stock options or equity participation.