Exploration Geologist - Base Metals

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation provided

Travel allowances

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance bonus

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Exploration Geologist specializing in base metals to lead geological exploration programs in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on identifying new deposits, mapping and interpreting multi-disciplinary data, and guiding field teams under challenging conditions.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in mineral exploration, proficiency in GIS and modeling tools, and willingness to travel for fieldwork across remote sites.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Geology or Earth Sciences, with economic geology/mineral exploration focus.
• Minimum 7 years in mineral exploration, base metals exposure (Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn).
• Proven track record in targeting drill sites for base metal deposits.
• Strong field geology skills: mapping, prospecting, core logging.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and manage geological exploration programs for base metals.
• Geological mapping, structural analysis, and lithological logging of drill core.
• Collect, assay, and interpret geochemical samples (soil, stream sediment, rock chip).
• Integrate geological, geochemical, and geophysical data to generate targets.
• Supervise drilling operations (RC and diamond) and field activities.

Skills

Base metal exploration

Field geology

Geochemical sampling

Geophysical data interpretation

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Geology

Tools

ArcGIS

QGIS

Leapfrog

Micromine

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent international resource exploration company, is seeking a highly skilled and driven Exploration Geologist specializing in Base Metals to join their team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is crucial for identifying and evaluating new mineral deposits, contributing directly to the company's growth and strategic objectives. The ideal candidate will have extensive field experience, a strong understanding of geological principles related to base metal mineralization, and proficiency in various exploration techniques including geochemical sampling, geological mapping, and geophysical data interpretation. You will be involved in all phases of exploration, from early-stage targeting to resource definition, working within a multidisciplinary team dedicated to discovering valuable mineral resources. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a challenging and rewarding field, contributing to the development of vital resources. The position demands a keen eye for detail, a passion for discovery, and the ability to work effectively in remote and often demanding field conditions. Your expertise will be central to unlocking the potential of new mining ventures for our client.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and manage geological exploration programs for base metals.
• Conduct detailed geological mapping, structural analysis, and lithological logging of drill core.
• Collect, assay, and interpret geochemical samples (soil, stream sediment, rock chip).
• Integrate and interpret geological, geochemical, and geophysical data to generate exploration targets.
• Supervise drilling operations (RC, diamond drilling) and manage site-based exploration activities.
• Evaluate mineral prospectivity and contribute to resource estimation.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and exploration recommendations for senior management.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, health, and environmental regulations on exploration sites in KwaZulu-Natal.
• Collaborate with geophysicists, geochemists, and other specialists to optimize exploration strategies.
• Maintain accurate and organized geological databases and digital geological models.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Geology or Earth Sciences, with a specialization in economic geology or mineral exploration.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration, specifically focused on base metals (e.g., copper, nickel, lead, zinc).
• Proven track record in identifying and defining drill targets for base metal deposits.
• Strong field geology skills, including mapping, prospecting, and core logging.
• Proficiency in GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) and geological modeling software (e.g., Leapfrog, Micromine).
• Experience with geochemical and geophysical data interpretation.
• Excellent understanding of geological processes controlling base metal mineralization.
• Ability to work independently and lead field teams in remote locations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce comprehensive reports.
• Must be willing to undertake extensive travel and fieldwork in challenging conditions in and around Richards Bay.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary package, including accommodation and travel allowances for fieldwork, comprehensive medical aid, and a generous retirement fund contribution.
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development are integral to our employment philosophy.
• You will be part of an innovative and collaborative exploration team, working on exciting projects with significant potential.
• Performance bonuses are also part of the compensation structure.
• We are committed to fostering a safe and responsible approach to exploration in KwaZulu-Natal.
• This role offers a unique chance to contribute to the discovery of critical mineral resources.