Lead Exploration Geoscientist - New Ventures

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 5,000,000 - 7,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation package

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria, South Africa, seeks a Lead Exploration Geoscientist to spearhead new venture initiatives across Southern Africa. The role requires senior expertise in mineral exploration and the ability to integrate geological, geophysical, and geochemical data to identify targets and build a robust project pipeline.

You will lead multidisciplinary teams, design and manage integrated exploration programs (surveys, sampling, drilling), mentor staff, and prepare technical reports for

Qualifications

• 12+ years in mineral exploration with greenfields experience.
• Ability to integrate geological, geophysical, and geochemical data.
• Proficiency in GIS and 3D modeling software.
• Strong leadership, communication, and travel willingness.

Responsibilities

• Lead identification, evaluation, and prioritization of new opportunities.
• Design and manage integrated exploration programs including surveys and drilling.
• Mentor multidisciplinary teams and prepare technical reports.
• Collaborate with management on land access, permitting, and ESG compliance.

Skills

Geology

Geophysics

Geochemistry

Leadership

Stakeholder communication

Education

MSc or PhD in Earth Sciences

Tools

ArcGIS

Leapfrog

Voxler

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized mining and exploration company, is seeking an accomplished Lead Exploration Geoscientist to spearhead new venture initiatives from their Pretoria, Gauteng office. This strategic role involves identifying, evaluating, and advancing prospective exploration targets across various commodities and geological settings within Southern Africa and potentially beyond. The successful candidate will leverage advanced geophysical and geochemical techniques, integrated geological data analysis, and a deep understanding of ore system genesis to build a robust pipeline of future mining projects. This is a high-impact position for a seasoned geoscientist passionate about discovering the next generation of world-class mineral deposits, based in the administrative capital of Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

Lead the identification, evaluation, and prioritization of new exploration opportunities, utilizing regional and global datasets. Design and manage integrated exploration programs, including geophysical surveys, geochemical sampling, and drilling campaigns. Interpret and integrate diverse geological, geophysical, and geochemical data to generate robust exploration models. Conduct detailed prospectivity mapping and target generation using advanced GIS and modeling software. Collaborate closely with corporate development and legal teams on land acquisition, permitting, and joint venture negotiations. Manage exploration budgets and ensure efficient allocation of resources for maximum impact. Mentor and provide technical guidance to a team of exploration geologists and geophysicists. Prepare compelling technical reports, presentations, and proposals for senior management and investment committees. Stay at the forefront of exploration technology, advocating for the adoption of innovative techniques and methodologies. Ensure all exploration activities comply with best practices and relevant environmental and social governance (ESG) standards in South Africa .

Requirements

A Master's or PhD degree in Earth Sciences (Geology, Geophysics, or Geochemistry). A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration, with a strong track record in greenfields exploration and new venture identification. Expertise in integrating and interpreting multiple exploration datasets (geological mapping, drilling, geophysics, geochemistry). Proficiency in exploration software, including GIS (e.g., ArcGIS), 3D modeling (e.g., Leapfrog, Voxler), and geophysical processing software. Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary exploration teams and manage complex projects. Strong understanding of commodity markets and the economic drivers of mineral exploration. Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills. Willingness to travel extensively to project sites throughout the region. Experience with community engagement and stakeholder relations in exploration contexts is a plus. Must be eligible to work in Pretoria and possess relevant qualifications.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive executive compensation package, including a substantial base salary, significant annual bonus potential, and long-term incentive awards.
• Comprehensive benefits include top-tier medical coverage, an executive pension plan, and relocation assistance if required.