Exploration Geologist - Precious Metals

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting an experienced Exploration Geologist for a Rustenburg, North West-based mining exploration company. The role focuses on identifying and evaluating precious metal prospects, planning exploration programs, interpreting data, and contributing to significant ore discoveries.

The successful candidate will balance fieldwork with data analysis, manage budgets, collaborate with specialists, and ensure environmental and safety standards.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Geology or Economic Geology from a reputable university.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands‑on mineral exploration experience with a proven track record in gold, PGEs, or other precious metals.
• Proficiency in Leapfrog Geo, ArcGIS and database management systems.
• Expertise in structural geology, regolith geochemistry, and alteration studies.
• Ability to interpret complex geological datasets and generate robust exploration targets.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team in challenging field conditions.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel frequently to remote sites.
• Knowledge of South African geological settings and mining industry practices is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design and manage grassroots exploration programs, including geochemistry, geophysics, and drilling campaigns.
• Conduct geological mapping, sampling, and core logging in prospective areas.
• Interpret geological, geochemical, and geophysical data to define targets for further investigation.
• Develop and maintain geological models, including 3D visualizations, to support resource potential assessment.
• Collaborate with geophysicists, geochemists, and other specialists to integrate diverse datasets.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and proposals for exploration initiatives.
• Manage exploration budgets and timelines effectively.
• Ensure all exploration activities comply with environmental regulations and safety standards.
• Maintain excellent relationships with local communities and stakeholders in the exploration areas.
• Stay abreast of the latest exploration technologies and methodologies.

Skills

Geology expertise

Project management

Communication skills

Travel readiness

Education

MSc or PhD in Geology or Economic Geology

Tools

Leapfrog Geo

ArcGIS

Database management systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking mining exploration company, is looking for a dedicated and experienced Exploration Geologist to join their expanding team in Rustenburg, North West . This role is crucial for identifying and evaluating new mineral prospects, with a primary focus on precious metals. The successful candidate will be instrumental in planning and executing exploration programs, interpreting geological data, and contributing to the discovery of significant ore bodies. This position requires a blend of fieldwork, data analysis, and strategic planning, all within the context of one of South Africa's most significant mining regions. We are committed to sustainable and responsible exploration practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and manage grassroots exploration programs, including geochemistry, geophysics, and drilling campaigns.
• Conduct geological mapping, sampling, and core logging in prospective areas.
• Interpret geological, geochemical, and geophysical data to define targets for further investigation.
• Develop and maintain geological models, including 3D visualizations, to support resource potential assessment.
• Collaborate with geophysicists, geochemists, and other specialists to integrate diverse datasets.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and proposals for exploration initiatives.
• Manage exploration budgets and timelines effectively.
• Ensure all exploration activities comply with environmental regulations and safety standards.
• Maintain excellent relationships with local communities and stakeholders in the exploration areas.
• Stay abreast of the latest exploration technologies and methodologies.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Geology or Economic Geology from a reputable university.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands‑on experience in mineral exploration, with a proven track record in discovering gold, platinum group elements (PGEs), or other precious metals.
• Strong proficiency in geological software, including Leapfrog Geo, ArcGIS, and database management systems.
• Expertise in various exploration techniques such as structural geology, regolith geochemistry, and alteration studies.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret complex geological datasets and generate robust exploration targets.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience in report writing for technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team in challenging field conditions.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to undertake frequent travel to remote exploration sites.
• Knowledge of South African geological settings and mining industry practices is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, medical aid, and provident fund benefits. We provide significant opportunities for professional growth, training, and career advancement in a supportive and innovative environment. The role offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a balance between field operations and office-based analysis in Rustenburg, North West . Join a company that is at the forefront of mineral discovery and development.