Lead Geologist - Exploration

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Annual bonus

Medical and dental benefits

Pension plan

Professional development

International travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Geologist to head regional exploration in Vereeniging, Gauteng. The role demands deep regional geology knowledge, prospect identification, and risk assessment for hydrocarbon exploration.

You will guide exploration strategies, manage geoscience teams, and ensure technical integrity of projects, driving new business opportunities and growth.

Qualifications

• Masters or PhD in Geology, Geophysics or related Earth Science.
• 12+ years in hydrocarbon exploration geology with leadership exp.
• Proven ability to identify prospects and manage exploration risk.

Responsibilities

• Develop regional exploration strategies and geological models.
• Evaluate hydrocarbon prospects using integrated data.
• Lead and mentor a team of exploration geologists.
• Oversee seismic and well data acquisition, processing, and interpretation.
• Conduct geological risk assessments and portfolio input.
• Prepare technical reports and proposals for JV partners.

Skills

Leadership

Geology team management

Seismic interpretation

Hydrocarbon exploration

Risk assessment

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Geology/Geophysics

Tools

Petrel

Kingdom Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the energy sector, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Lead Geologist to spearhead exploration initiatives in the Vereeniging, Gauteng, ZA region. This senior position demands a deep understanding of regional geology, prospect identification, and risk assessment for hydrocarbon exploration. The Lead Geologist will be responsible for guiding exploration strategies, managing geological teams, and ensuring the technical integrity of exploration projects. This role is critical for identifying and maturing new business opportunities, contributing directly to the company's growth and sustained success within the competitive energy landscape. We are looking for an individual with a proven track record in discovering and defining commercially viable reserves, who can lead and inspire a team of geoscientists.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement regional exploration strategies and geological models.
• Identify and evaluate potential hydrocarbon prospects using integrated geological and geophysical data.
• Lead and mentor a team of exploration geologists, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
• Oversee the acquisition, processing, and interpretation of seismic and well data.
• Conduct geological risk assessments and contribute to portfolio management.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and proposals for management and joint venture partners.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant geological, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with reservoir engineers and petrophysicists to integrate geological interpretations into reservoir models.
• Manage external geological consultants and service providers as needed.
• Stay abreast of the latest exploration technologies and geological concepts.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Geology, Geophysics, or a related Earth Science discipline.
• A minimum of 12 years of relevant experience in hydrocarbon exploration geology, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Extensive experience with 2D and 3D seismic interpretation software (e.g., Petrel, Kingdom Suite).
• Proven success in prospect generation and discovery in diverse geological settings.
• Strong understanding of basin analysis, structural geology, and sequence stratigraphy.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Demonstrated experience in geological risk assessment and uncertainty analysis.
• Must be eligible to work in Vereeniging, Gauteng, ZA

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive compensation package, including a competitive base salary, annual bonus, comprehensive medical and dental benefits, a generous pension scheme, and extensive opportunities for professional development and international travel. We provide a stimulating work environment and support for career advancement. Join a forward-thinking organization committed to responsible energy development.