Senior Geoscientist - Resource Exploration

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 73,000 - 109,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package + bonuses

Medical aid

Provident fund

Leave allowances

Professional development funding

Access to advanced exploration tools

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Geoscientist for a major mining and exploration company in Welkom, Free State. The role leads geological investigations, interprets subsurface data, and guides drilling strategies to unlock mineral resources.

Strong experience in structural geology and exploration methodologies is required. The candidate will oversee field teams, liaise with regulators, and prepare technical reports while staying current with new geoscience technologies and health/safety

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Geology or related field with focus on exploration.
• 7–9 years of mineral exploration experience, preferred in gold/platinum/base metals.
• Strong skills in geological mapping, structural analysis, and resource modeling.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and manage geological exploration programs including fieldwork and data analysis.
• Interpret geological maps, cross-sections, logs, cores and geophysical data to define prospective areas.
• Develop 3D geological models using Leapfrog Geo, Vulcan, and Petrel to delineate resources.
• Provide geological risk assessments and recommendations for exploration targets and drilling strategies.
• Mentor junior geoscientists and field technicians; supervise field activities and reporting.

Skills

Geological mapping

Structural analysis

Resource modeling

Project management

Team leadership

Education

Master's degree in Geology

Ph.D. in Geology

Tools

Leapfrog Geo

Vulcan

Petrel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent mining and exploration company, is actively seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Geoscientist to join their dedicated team in Welkom, Free State. This critical role will involve leading geological investigations, interpreting complex subsurface data, and identifying potential mineral resource deposits. You will be instrumental in driving the company's exploration strategy, utilizing advanced geological modeling and geophysical techniques to assess resource potential and guide drilling programs. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to significant resource discovery and development in a region renowned for its mineral wealth, working within the heart of Welkom, Free State. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of structural geology, sedimentology, and exploration methodologies, coupled with strong analytical and project management skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and manage geological exploration programs, including fieldwork, data acquisition, and analysis.


• Interpret geological maps, cross-sections, well logs, core samples, and geophysical data (e.g., seismic, magnetic, gravity) to define prospective areas.


• Develop and refine 3D geological models using industry-standard software (e.g., Leapfrog, Petrel) to delineate mineral resources.


• Conduct geological risk assessments and provide expert recommendations for exploration targets and drilling strategies.


• Collaborate with resource estimation teams to ensure accurate and reliable resource reporting according to international standards (e.g., JORC).


• Oversee junior geoscientists and field technicians, providing technical guidance and mentorship.


• Liaise with government regulatory bodies and stakeholders regarding exploration activities in Welkom, Free State.


• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, presentations, and proposals for management and external parties.


• Stay abreast of new technologies and methodologies in geoscience and mineral exploration.


• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations throughout all exploration activities.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Geology, Earth Sciences, or a related field with a strong focus on exploration.


• A minimum of 7-9 years of relevant experience in mineral exploration, preferably in gold, platinum, or base metal deposits.


• Proven expertise in geological mapping, structural analysis, and resource modeling.


• Proficiency with geological modeling software (e.g., Leapfrog Geo, Vulcan, Petrel).


• Strong understanding of geophysical data interpretation and integration with geological datasets.


• Experience with data management and QA/QC protocols for geological data.


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.


• Strong report writing and presentation skills.


• Ability to work effectively in challenging field conditions and manage remote exploration sites.


• Must hold a valid driver's license and be eligible to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package, complemented by performance-based bonuses and opportunities for profit sharing.


• Comprehensive medical aid, a provident fund, and substantial leave allowances are provided.


• Professional development is prioritized, with funding available for relevant training courses, workshops, and attendance at industry conferences.


• Employees in Welkom, Free State have access to advanced exploration tools and technology within a supportive team environment.


• Our client is committed to fostering career growth and offers clear advancement opportunities within its exploration division.