Lead Geologist - Exploration

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work flexibility

Performance bonuses

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Geologist (Exploration) for a fully remote role. The senior position requires extensive experience, a sharp eye for detail, and the ability to lead geoscience teams across time zones.

You will drive exploration strategy, interpret seismic data, and mentor junior geologists while coordinating with engineers and management. The role emphasizes independent, globally distributed collaboration and presenting high-quality technical analyses for opportunities, with a

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Geology, Geophysics, or related geoscience.
• 10+ years in oil and gas exploration geology with proven prospect generation.
• Strong seismic interpretation and well log analysis skills.
• Experience leading technical teams and working across time zones.

Responsibilities

• Lead geological exploration programs to identify and assess new resource plays.
• Interpret seismic, well logs, and core data to define subsurface structures.
• Develop prospect inventories and evaluate exploration risks.
• Build subsurface models using geological software.
• Collaborate with geophysicists to integrate seismic interpretations.

Skills

Seismic interpretation

Well log analysis

Sequence stratigraphy

Structural geology

Leadership

Remote team collaboration

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Independent & cross-time-zone work

Education

M.Sc. in Geology

Ph.D. in Geology / Geophysics

Tools

Petrel

GeoGraphix

Kingdom

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in the energy industry, is looking for an exceptional Lead Geologist specializing in exploration to join our fully remote team. This role is critical for identifying and evaluating new prospective hydrocarbon resources worldwide. You will be instrumental in driving our exploration strategy, utilizing cutting-edge geological and geophysical technologies to interpret vast datasets and pinpoint high-potential areas for future development. This is a senior position requiring extensive experience, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to lead geoscientific teams in a remote-first environment. You will collaborate closely with reservoir engineers, geophysicists, and management to ensure our exploration portfolio remains robust and strategically aligned.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute geological exploration programs, focusing on identifying and assessing new potential resource plays.
• Interpret complex geological and geophysical data, including seismic, well logs, and core data, to define subsurface structures and stratigraphy.
• Develop and manage prospect inventory and evaluate risks associated with exploration ventures.
• Utilize advanced geological modeling software to build subsurface models and visualize potential reservoirs.
• Collaborate with geophysicists to integrate seismic interpretations and identify drilling targets.
• Provide geological input for exploration well planning, including targeting, casing points, and data acquisition plans.
• Conduct detailed field studies and reconnaissance where necessary, often virtually.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, presentations, and economic evaluations for exploration opportunities.
• Mentor and guide junior geologists and geoscientists within the exploration team.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of best practices in exploration geology and data management.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (M.Sc. or Ph.D.) in Geology, Geophysics, or a related geoscience discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in oil and gas exploration geology, with a proven track record of successful prospect generation.
• Expertise in seismic interpretation, well log analysis, sequence stratigraphy, and structural geology.
• Proficiency with industry-standard geological software packages (e.g., Petrel, GeoGraphix, Kingdom).
• Strong understanding of petroleum systems analysis and basin modeling.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams and manage projects effectively in a remote setting.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, capable of presenting complex findings to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across different time zones.
• A passion for discovery and innovation in the field of exploration geology.

Benefits

As a fully remote position, this role offers unparalleled flexibility and the opportunity to work from anywhere. Our client provides a highly competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a generous retirement plan. We invest in our employees' growth through continuous learning opportunities, access to state-of-the-technology, and participation in international conferences. You will be part of an innovative and supportive global team, contributing to the future of the energy sector. This role is based out of Klerksdorp, North West, ZA , but is executed entirely remotely.