Lead Geoscientist - Exploration (Oil & Gas)

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical insurance

Retirement plan

Leave allowance

Travel opportunities

Relocation support

Geoscience tech access

Collaborative team

Job summary

Placements24 in George, Western Cape, seeks a Lead Geoscientist to lead exploration programs in Oil & Gas. Based in George, you will drive prospect generation, oversee seismic interpretation, and mentor a team of geoscientists in a hybrid work arrangement.

You will integrate geological, geophysical, and petrophysical data to de-risk targets, present findings to management and partners, and stay ahead with cutting-edge techniques while ensuring high‑quality deliverables.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Geology/Geophysics required.
• 10+ years in exploration geoscience in Oil & Gas.
• Proficient in seismic interpretation software (Kingdom, Petrel).
• Strong leadership and people management experience.
• Experience in basin analysis and prospect generation.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of geoscientists in exploration.
• Oversee seismic data acquisition, processing, interpretation.
• Conduct basin analyses and regional geological studies.
• Develop exploration prospects from concept to drilling.
• Integrate geological, geophysical, and petrophysical data.
• Perform risk assessment and uncertainty analysis.
• Collaborate with reservoir and drilling engineers and management.
• Present findings to senior management and partners.
• Ensure quality and accuracy of deliverables.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team management

Interpersonal skills

Geoscience knowledge

Education

Master's or PhD in Geology/Geophysics

Tools

Kingdom Suite

Petrel

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Lead Geoscientist to spearhead exploration initiatives within the dynamic Oil & Gas sector. This pivotal role, based in George, Western Cape, will be responsible for identifying and evaluating new hydrocarbon prospects. You will lead a team of geoscientists, leveraging advanced geological and geophysical techniques to de-risk exploration targets and maximize the chances of discovery. This is a hybrid role, blending critical on-site collaboration with focused remote work, allowing for both team synergy and individual deep work. The ideal candidate possesses a profound understanding of basin analysis, seismic interpretation, and prospect generation, coupled with strong leadership capabilities. You will play a crucial role in shaping the future exploration strategy, ensuring sustainable growth and value creation for the company. Your expertise will be vital in navigating complex geological terrains and uncovering valuable subsurface resources, contributing significantly to the company's success in the competitive energy market.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of geoscientists in all aspects of exploration geoscience.


• Oversee seismic data acquisition, processing, and interpretation for exploration and appraisal projects.


• Conduct comprehensive basin analysis and regional geological studies to identify prospective areas.


• Develop and mature exploration prospects from initial concept through to drilling recommendations.


• Integrate geological, geophysical, and petrophysical data to build robust subsurface models.


• Perform risk assessment and uncertainty analysis for exploration opportunities.


• Collaborate closely with reservoir engineers, drilling engineers, and management to optimize exploration strategies.


• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in geoscience technology and methodologies.


• Present exploration findings and recommendations to senior management and external partners.


• Ensure the quality and accuracy of all geoscience deliverables.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Geology, Geophysics, or a related Earth Science discipline.


• A minimum of 10 years of experience in exploration geoscience within the Oil & Gas industry.


• Extensive experience with seismic interpretation software (e.g., Kingdom Suite, Petrel).


• Proven track record in prospect identification, evaluation, and risking.


• Strong knowledge of structural geology, stratigraphy, and sedimentology.


• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.


• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal abilities.


• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment, balancing on-site and remote tasks.


• Experience in the relevant geological basins is a significant advantage.


• Familiarity with advanced geophysical techniques such as AVO analysis and gravity/magnetics.

Benefits

• Attractive annual salary package.


• Performance-based bonuses and incentives.


• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.


• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.


• Generous leave allowance, including vacation and sick days.


• Opportunities for international travel and professional development.


• Access to cutting-edge geoscience technology and software.


• Relocation assistance may be provided for eligible candidates.


• A collaborative and supportive team environment.