Principal Geochemist

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 122,000 - 213,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Laboratory access to cutting-edge labs

Exposure to international mining proj.

Generous annual leave & retirement sav

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Geochemist to lead advanced geological research and exploration strategies in Welkom, Free State. You will supervise geochemical sampling, interpretation of complex data, and development of analytical methods to support mining operations and environmental compliance.

The role requires extensive experience with ICP-MS, XRF, GC-MS and proficiency in ioGAS, ArcGIS, and R. Leadership of a multidisciplinary team and clear communication to stakeholders are essential.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Geochemistry, Geology, Chemistry, or related Earth Science.
• 8–10 years of progressive applied geochemistry experience in mineral exploration or mining.
• Hands-on experience with ICP-MS, XRF, GC-MS.
• Proficiency with ioGAS, ArcGIS, and R for data processing and modeling.
• Strong leadership, supervisory skills, and excellent written/verbal communication.
• Authorized to work in Welkom, Free State, ZA.

Responsibilities

• Lead geochemical exploration and resource evaluation programs.
• Oversee sampling and analysis of rocks, soils, water, and gases with ICP-MS, XRF, GC-MS.
• Interpret geochemical data to delineate ore bodies and assess mineralization.
• Develop validated analytical methods ensuring data accuracy and reliability.
• Conduct geochemical modeling of fluid-rock interactions and environmental fate.
• Provide geochemical input for mine planning, estimation, and closure.
• Collaborate with geologists, engineers, and environmental scientists.
• Mentor junior geochemists and lab technicians.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to management.

Skills

Leadership qualities

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Supervisory experience

Education

Ph.D. in Geochemistry, Geology, Chemistry, or related Earth Science

Tools

ICP-MS

XRF

GC-MS

ioGAS

ArcGIS

R

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading international mining and resource exploration company, seeking an accomplished Principal Geochemist to lead their advanced geological research and analysis division in Welkom, Free State. This senior role is crucial for interpreting complex geological data, guiding exploration strategies, and ensuring the sustainable and efficient extraction of mineral resources. You will be responsible for developing and overseeing geochemical sampling and analysis programs, utilizing advanced analytical techniques to understand ore body characteristics, fluid-rock interactions, and environmental impact assessments. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in inorganic geochemistry, analytical instrumentation, and statistical modeling, coupled with a strong understanding of mining operations and environmental regulations. This is a key leadership position contributing directly to the company's success and responsible resource management.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of geochemical exploration and resource evaluation programs.
• Oversee the collection, preparation, and analysis of geological samples (rocks, soils, water, gases) using advanced analytical techniques (e.g., ICP-MS, AAS, XRF).
• Interpret complex geochemical data to identify and delineate ore bodies, understand mineralization processes, and assess geological hazards.
• Develop and validate analytical methods to ensure data accuracy, precision, and reliability.
• Conduct geochemical modeling to predict fluid-rock interactions, element mobility, and environmental fate.
• Provide expert geochemical input for mine planning, resource estimation, and mine closure studies.
• Collaborate with geologists, mining engineers, and environmental scientists to integrate geochemical data into broader project goals.
• Mentor and supervise junior geochemists and laboratory technicians.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, present findings to management and stakeholders, and contribute to scientific publications.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Geochemistry, Geology, Chemistry, or a related Earth Science discipline.
• A minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in applied geochemistry, with a significant focus on mineral exploration or mining.
• Extensive hands-on experience with modern geochemical analytical instrumentation (e.g., ICP-MS, XRF, GC-MS).
• Proficiency in geochemical data processing, statistical analysis, and modeling software (e.g., ioGAS, ARCGIS, R).
• Strong understanding of geological processes, mineral systems, and ore deposit types.
• Experience with environmental geochemistry and site remediation is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Supervisory experience and strong leadership qualities.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to communicate complex technical information to diverse audiences.
• Must possess legal authorization to work in Welkom, Free State, ZA.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-related incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, life, and disability insurance.
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
• Access to cutting-edge analytical laboratories and exploration technologies.
• Exposure to diverse international mining projects.
• Generous annual leave and retirement savings plan.