Chief Mine Geologist - Platinum Group Metals

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Annual performance bonuses

Medical aid & retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Chief Mine Geologist to lead geological operations for a major PGM project in Bloemfontein, Free State. The role oversees exploration, resource definition, and modeling, guiding teams and implementing advanced techniques to support mine planning and investment decisions.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s or PhD in Geology, 10+ years in mine geology, and proven leadership.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Geology or related geoscience field.
• 10+ years in mine geology with focus on PGM exploration and resource modeling.
• Proven leadership of geological teams and projects.
• Experience with Leapfrog, Micromine, Vulcan, ArcGIS.
• Knowledge of JORC or NI 43-101 reporting standards.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in Bloemfontein/Free State or similar settings preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the mine geology department, including geologists, technicians, and support staff.
• Develop and implement exploration strategies and programs to identify and delineate new PGM resources.
• Oversee collection, assaying, and interpretation of geological data from drilling, sampling, and surface mapping.
• Develop and maintain robust geological models and resource estimates using industry-standard software.
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of geological data and reporting for internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with mine planning, operations, and metallurgists to integrate geological information into mine development.
• Implement QA/QC in geological data management.
• Stay current with advances in geological exploration technologies for PGMs.
• Provide geological input for feasibility studies and investment proposals.
• Promote strong safety culture within the geology department and regulatory compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical

Communication

Decision-making

Problem-solving

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Geology or related geoscience

Tools

Leapfrog

Micromine

Vulcan

ArcGIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading entity in the Mining sector, actively searching for a highly experienced and visionary Chief Mine Geologist to lead their geological operations in Bloemfontein, Free State. This senior position is critical for overseeing all aspects of exploration, resource definition, and geological modeling for their significant Platinum Group Metals (PGM) assets. You will be responsible for directing geological teams, implementing advanced exploration techniques, and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of resource estimates that underpin mine planning and investment decisions. This role offers an unparalleled opportunity to shape the geological strategy for a major mining project in a key region. The successful candidate will possess deep technical expertise in PGM geology, extensive leadership experience, and a strategic mindset to drive exploration success in the Bloemfontein, Free State area.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the mine geology department, including geologists, technicians, and support staff.
• Develop and implement exploration strategies and programs to identify and delineate new PGM resources.
• Oversee the collection, assaying, and interpretation of geological data from drilling, sampling, and surface mapping.
• Develop and maintain robust geological models and resource estimates using industry-standard software.
• Ensure the accuracy and integrity of geological data and reporting for internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate closely with mine planning, operations, and metallurgists to ensure effective integration of geological information into mine development and production.
• Implement best practices in geological data management, quality assurance, and quality control (QA/QC).
• Stay current with advances in geological exploration technologies and methodologies relevant to PGM deposits.
• Provide geological input for feasibility studies, technical reports, and investment proposals.
• Promote a strong safety culture within the geology department and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Geology, Economic Geology, or a related geoscience field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mine geology, with a significant focus on Platinum Group Metals (PGM) exploration and resource modeling.
• Proven leadership experience managing geological teams and projects.
• Extensive experience with geological modeling software (e.g., Leapfrog, Micromine, Vulcan, ArcGIS).
• Deep understanding of PGM deposit types, exploration techniques, and structural controls.
• Strong knowledge of resource estimation methodologies and reporting standards (e.g., JORC, NI 43-101).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience working in the Bloemfontein, Free State region or similar geological settings is highly desirable.
• Professional Geoscientist (PG) or equivalent registration is preferred.

Benefits

• A highly competitive executive salary and benefits package.
• Annual performance bonuses and potential for equity participation.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• Opportunity to lead geological efforts on a major PGM project.
• Relocation assistance for candidates moving to the Bloemfontein, Free State area.