Chief Geologist

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Hybrid work model

Medical coverage

Retirement fund contributions

Paid leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Chief Geologist for a prominent exploration and mining company based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This senior role combines strategic oversight from a remote setting with essential on‑site engagement for critical project reviews and team leadership to advance geological projects.

You will guide exploration, resource definition, modelling, and reporting across the portfolio, mentor geologists, ensure compliance with JORC/NI 43-101, and collaborate with mining,

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or PhD in Geology or related earth science.
• 10+ years in mineral exploration with at least 5 years in senior leadership.
• Experience with geological modelling software Leapfrog, Vulcan and Datamine.
• Professional Geologist (PG) or equivalent registration highly desirable.
• Strong leadership, communication, analytical and strategic planning skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the geology department across exploration, resource definition and modelling.
• Develop and implement strategic exploration programs to identify new mineral targets.
• Oversee collection, interpretation and reporting of geological data and cores.
• Ensure accuracy of resource models and support mine planning and feasibility studies.
• Collaborate with mining engineering, metallurgy and environmental teams for integrated execution.
• Manage geological budgets and resources effectively.
• Stay abreast of advancements and ensure compliance with JORC and NI 43-101 standards.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Strategic planning

Geology expertise

Education

Master's degree in Geology

PhD in Geology

Tools

Leapfrog

Vulcan

Datamine

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent exploration and mining company, is seeking a highly accomplished Chief Geologist to lead their geological services team based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA . This hybrid role requires a balance of strategic oversight from a remote setting and essential on-site engagement for critical project reviews and team leadership. The Chief Geologist will be responsible for guiding all geological exploration, resource definition, and modelling activities across the company's portfolio. This senior position demands a strategic visionary with extensive experience in mineral exploration, geological interpretation, and resource estimation. You will play a pivotal role in identifying and evaluating new mineral prospects, optimizing exploration strategies, and ensuring the accuracy and integrity of resource models. This is a key leadership opportunity to shape the future exploration success and resource base of the company. Your expertise will be critical in driving discoveries and unlocking the full potential of our geological assets.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the geology department, including exploration, resource definition, and modelling activities.
• Develop and implement strategic exploration programs to identify and evaluate new mineral targets.
• Oversee the collection, interpretation, and reporting of geological data, including core logging, assay analysis, and geophysical surveys.
• Ensure the integrity and accuracy of geological resource models using advanced software and techniques.
• Provide expert geological input for mine planning, feasibility studies, and project development.
• Mentor and supervise a team of geologists and technicians, fostering their professional development.
• Collaborate with other departments, including mining engineering, metallurgy, and environmental, to ensure integrated project execution.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant geological standards, reporting codes (e.g., JORC, NI 43-101), and regulatory requirements.
• Manage geological budgets and resources effectively.
• Stay abreast of advancements in geological exploration techniques and technologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Geology, Economic Geology, or a related earth science discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration and resource geology, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or management role.
• Extensive experience with various exploration techniques and geological modelling software (e.g., Leapfrog, Vulcan, Datamine).
• Proven track record in discovering and defining economic mineral deposits.
• Strong understanding of resource estimation methodologies and reporting standards.
• Excellent leadership, communication, analytical, and strategic planning skills.
• Ability to manage teams and projects effectively in a hybrid work environment.
• Professional Geologist (PG) or equivalent registration is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, benchmarked against industry standards, along with performance-based bonuses. Comprehensive benefits include excellent medical coverage, retirement fund contributions, and generous paid leave. The hybrid work structure provides an optimal balance of remote flexibility and necessary on-site engagement. Opportunities for continuous professional development, including attendance at international conferences and specialized training, are actively supported. You will work within a respected organization known for its commitment to exploration success, safety, and sustainable practices. This is an excellent opportunity to advance your career and make a significant contribution to the future of geological discovery and resource development.