Lead Geologist - Mining Operations

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Performance bonus

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Geologist for a Hybrid position in the Klerksdorp, North West region. The role oversees geology operations, resource estimation, and strategic planning within mining and related sectors.

The candidate will lead a team of geologists, drive geological modeling, and collaborate with engineers to optimise extraction while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• MSc or equivalent in Geology or Earth Sciences, with a focus on economic/mining geology.
• At least 10 years in geological exploration/operations, with 5+ years in a leadership role in mining or oil & gas.
• Expertise in geological modeling software (Leapfrog, Micromine, Vulcan).
• Strong knowledge of mineral deposit types, exploration techniques, and resource estimation (JORC, NI 43-101).

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of geologists and geoscientists.
• Develop and oversee geological exploration and evaluation programs.
• Oversee geological models, resource and reserve estimations.
• Interpret drilling, geophysics, and mapping data to identify zones.
• Ensure compliance with mining regulations, safety, and environmental standards.
• Collaborate with engineers and other stakeholders to optimise extraction.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for stakeholders.
• Utilize advanced geological software for data analysis and visualization.
• Support strategic planning and budgeting for geological initiatives.

Skills

Geology leadership

Team management

Geological modeling

Data interpretation

Reporting

Education

MSc in Geology or Earth Sciences

Tools

Leapfrog

Micromine

Vulcan

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent entity in the Oil & Gas and mining sectors, is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Lead Geologist to oversee geological operations and exploration initiatives in the Klerksdorp, North West region. This senior position is crucial for guiding geological interpretation, resource estimation, and ensuring the efficient and safe extraction of mineral resources. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading a team of geologists and geoscientists, implementing best practices in geological modeling, and contributing to the long‑term strategic planning of our client’s mining portfolio. This role offers the chance to make a substantial impact on major projects and work within a collaborative and technologically advanced operational framework.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of geologists and geoscientists, providing technical guidance and mentorship.
• Develop and implement comprehensive geological exploration and evaluation programs.
• Oversee the creation and validation of geological models, including resource and reserve estimations.
• Interpret geological data from various sources (drilling, geophysics, surface mapping) to identify mineralized zones.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant mining regulations, environmental standards, and safety protocols.
• Collaborate closely with mining engineers, metallurgists, and other stakeholders to optimize extraction strategies.
• Prepare detailed geological reports, presentations, and technical documentation for internal and external stakeholders.
• Utilize advanced geological software and techniques for data analysis, visualization, and interpretation.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and business development initiatives of the company.
• Manage geological budgets and resource allocation effectively.

Requirements

• MSc or equivalent in Geology or Earth Sciences, with a specialization in economic geology or mining geology.
• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in geological exploration and operations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within the mining or Oil & Gas industry.
• Proven expertise in geological modeling software (e.g., Leapfrog, Micromine, Vulcan).
• Strong knowledge of mineral deposit types, exploration techniques, and resource estimation methodologies (JORC, NI 43-101 compliant).
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote analysis with on‑site fieldwork.
• Proficiency in data analysis, interpretation, and reporting.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to various operational sites as needed.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid and pension fund benefits, performance bonuses, and excellent opportunities for professional growth and development.
• This role offers the unique chance to lead critical geological initiatives in the rich mineral landscape of North West , contributing to impactful projects and career advancement within a respected industry leader.
• Join a forward-thinking company that values expertise and innovation.