Lead Geologist - Exploration

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 invites a Senior Lead Geologist to Centurion, Gauteng, to lead exploration programs, interpret subsurface data, and drive hydrocarbon resource growth. This senior role requires a proven track record in prospect generation and leadership.

You will mentor geologists, coordinate with geophysicists, reservoir engineers, and drilling teams, and ensure compliance with industry standards. Based in Centurion, you’ll shape exploration strategy and deliver high-impact results.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Geology or related Earth Science.
• 10+ years in geological exploration in oil & gas.
• Expertise in seismic interpretation, stratigraphy, and structural geology.

Responsibilities

• Lead geological exploration projects from concept to definition.
• Interpret seismic and well data to map subsurface structures and traps.
• Develop geological models and play fairway analyses.
• Plan and execute field programs; collect and analyze data.
• Collaborate with geophysicists, reservoir engineers and drilling teams.
• Evaluate risks and quantify potential resource volumes.
• Mentor junior geologists and promote technical excellence.
• Prepare reports and recommendations for management and JV partners.

Skills

Seismic interpretation

Sequence stratigraphy

Structural geology

Geological modeling

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Geology

Tools

Petrel

Kingdom

ArcGIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent exploration and production company within the energy sector, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Geologist for their operations based in Centurion, Gauteng . This senior-level position will spearhead geological exploration efforts, focusing on identifying and evaluating new hydrocarbon resources. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading geological teams, interpreting complex subsurface data, and making critical decisions that drive exploration strategy. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned geologist to take on a leadership role, contribute significantly to major exploration projects, and influence the company's future resource base. The role requires extensive field and office experience, a deep understanding of geological modeling, and a strong track record in prospect generation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage geological exploration projects from initial concept through to prospect definition.
• Interpret seismic, well log, and other geophysical data to map subsurface structures and identify potential hydrocarbon traps.
• Develop detailed geological models and play fairway analyses.
• Oversee the planning and execution of geological field programs, including data acquisition and analysis.
• Collaborate closely with geophysicists, reservoir engineers, and drilling teams to integrate geological insights into exploration and development strategies.
• Evaluate exploration risks and uncertainties, and quantify potential resource volumes.
• Mentor and guide junior geologists, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous learning.
• Prepare comprehensive geological reports, presentations, and recommendations for senior management and joint venture partners.
• Ensure adherence to company policies, industry best practices, and regulatory requirements in all geological activities.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Geology or a related Earth Science discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in geological exploration within the oil and gas industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in seismic interpretation, sequence stratigraphy, and structural geology.
• Proficiency with geological modeling and mapping software (e.g., Petrel, Kingdom, ArcGIS).
• Proven track record of successful prospect identification and generation.
• Strong understanding of sedimentology, petrophysics, and basin analysis.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Ability to present complex geological concepts effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Experience working with diverse datasets and managing large geological databases.
• Must be willing to travel to field locations as required by project needs, based in Centurion, Gauteng .

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a substantial performance-based bonus structure, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, provident fund, and relocation assistance if applicable. Opportunities for professional development, conference attendance, and career advancement within a growing energy company are abundant. The successful candidate will be based at our modern offices in Centurion, Gauteng , and will play a key role in shaping the future of our exploration ventures.