Exploration Geologist - Diamond and Mineral Sands

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary with incentives

Medical aid coverage

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 represents a rapidly expanding exploration client near Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal seeking an experienced Exploration Geologist to lead fieldwork, mapping, data interpretation and target evaluation for diamonds and mineral sands.

The role demands a Master's degree in Geology, 6+ years in mineral exploration (alluvial diamonds/mineral sands), and proficiency in ArcGIS/QGIS and modelling tools. Travel to remote sites will be required.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Geology or Earth Sciences with economic geology or sedimentary focus.
• Minimum 6 years' mineral exploration experience, including alluvial diamonds or heavy mineral sands.
• Proven target generation and drilling campaign outcomes.
• Proficiency in GIS and geological modelling software.
• Strong field mapping, surveying, and sampling skills.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and manage exploration programs for diamonds and mineral sands in Richards Bay.
• Conduct detailed geological mapping, structural analysis, and sampling.
• Interpret geological, geophysical, and geochemical data to identify drilling targets.
• Design and supervise drilling programs and core logging.
• Manage field logistics, budgets, and contractor relationships.
• Analyze assay results and prepare geological reports.
• Collaborate with geophysicists, geochemists, and consultants.
• Maintain geological databases and data quality.
• Stay current with exploration technologies for alluvial deposits.

Skills

Geology

Mineral exploration

Field mapping

Data interpretation

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Geology

Tools

ArcGIS

QGIS

Leapfrog Geo

Vulcan

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding exploration company, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Exploration Geologist to join their dedicated team focused on uncovering new diamond and mineral sands deposits. This position, based in the operational hub near Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , offers a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to the company's discovery pipeline. The role involves extensive fieldwork, geological mapping, data interpretation, and the management of exploration programs. You will play a key role in identifying prospective areas, designing drilling campaigns, and evaluating exploration targets. This is an exciting chance to apply your geological expertise in a frontier exploration setting and contribute to significant discoveries within South Africa's rich geological landscape. The position requires a proactive approach and a passion for exploration geology.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and manage geological exploration programs for diamonds and mineral sands in the Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal region.
• Conduct detailed geological mapping, structural analysis, and sampling of prospective terrains.
• Interpret geological, geophysical, and geochemical data to identify and delineate targets for drilling.
• Design and supervise drilling programs (e.g., RC, diamond drilling, auger drilling) and core logging.
• Manage field logistics, budgets, and contractor relationships for exploration projects.
• Analyze assay results and prepare detailed geological reports and recommendations.
• Collaborate with geophysicists, geochemists, and external consultants.
• Maintain geological databases and ensure data quality and integrity.
• Stay current with exploration technologies and methodologies relevant to alluvial and placer deposits.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Geology or Earth Sciences, with a specialization in economic geology or sedimentary environments.
• A minimum of 6 years of direct experience in mineral exploration, specifically focusing on alluvial diamonds and/or heavy mineral sands.
• Proven track record of successful target generation and drilling campaigns.
• Proficiency in GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) and geological modeling software (e.g., Leapfrog Geo, Vulcan).
• Experience with geophysical logging and interpretation techniques.
• Strong understanding of sedimentology, stratigraphy, and placer deposit formation.
• Excellent field skills, including mapping, surveying, and sampling techniques.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a remote team, with strong problem-solving skills.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively to remote field locations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package with performance-based incentives, comprehensive medical aid coverage, and a robust retirement fund. This role provides the unique advantage of working in diverse and prospective geological settings, offering significant opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a growing exploration company. You will be instrumental in the discovery of new mineral resources, contributing directly to the company's future success. This is an exceptional opportunity for a geologist passionate about discovery in South Africa's unique mineral provinces.