Lead Geologist - Exploration

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Pension contributions

Relocation assistance

International travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Geologist to spearhead exploration in George, Western Cape. You will lead multidisciplinary teams, identify targets, and manage geological data to shape the exploration portfolio.

The role requires senior-level expertise and a strategic mindset for resource assessment and risk management. The successful candidate will drive innovative geological interpretation, collaborate with engineers, and guide projects from target identification to evaluation while ensuring

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Geology or related field.
• 10–15 years of progressive geological exploration experience.
• Proven seismic interpretation and well log analysis expertise.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary exploration teams.
• Strong knowledge of petroleum systems and SA basins.

Responsibilities

• Oversee geological exploration programs to identify new hydrocarbon prospects.
• Interpret seismic data, well logs and core data to delineate prospective plays.
• Develop geological models to support interpretation and resource estimation.
• Lead and mentor a team of geologists and geoscientists.
• Collaborate with reservoir engineers and drilling teams for integrated understanding.
• Manage geological databases and ensure data quality for projects in George.
• Prepare detailed geological reports and recommendations for management.
• Stay updated on latest exploration techniques and technologies.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations.

Skills

Seismic interpretation

Well log analysis

Geological modeling

Petroleum systems

Team leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Geology

PhD in Geology or Earth Sciences

Tools

Petrel

Kingdom

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking energy exploration company, is actively seeking a highly accomplished Lead Geologist to spearhead exploration initiatives in the George, Western Cape region. This critical role demands exceptional geological expertise, a strong understanding of exploration strategies, and the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams. The Lead Geologist will be responsible for identifying and evaluating new exploration targets, managing geological data, and contributing to the overall exploration portfolio strategy. This position offers a unique chance to make a significant impact on discovering and developing vital energy resources. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the future of exploration activities for our client in George, Western Cape, driving innovation and geological insight.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and execute geological exploration programs aimed at identifying new hydrocarbon prospects.
• Interpret seismic, well log, and core data to delineate potential resource plays and assess geological risk.
• Develop geological models and frameworks to support subsurface interpretation and resource estimation.
• Lead and mentor a team of geologists and geoscientists, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
• Collaborate closely with reservoir engineers, geophysicists, and drilling teams to ensure integrated subsurface understanding.
• Manage geological databases and ensure data quality and integrity for all exploration projects in George, Western Cape.
• Prepare detailed geological reports, presentations, and recommendations for management and potential partners.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in geological exploration techniques and technologies.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental and safety regulations during exploration activities.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Geology, Earth Sciences, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in geological exploration, with a substantial focus on prospect identification and evaluation.
• Demonstrated expertise in seismic interpretation, well log analysis, and geological modeling software (e.g., Petrel, Kingdom).
• Proven experience in leading geological teams and managing exploration projects.
• Excellent understanding of petroleum systems, structural geology, and sedimentary basins relevant to exploration in South Africa.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa and ideally reside near George, Western Cape.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary and a significant performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid and life insurance coverage.
• Generous pension fund contributions.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for the successful candidate.
• A challenging and rewarding career path within the vibrant Energy sector in George, Western Cape.