Lead Geoscientist - Integrated Reservoir Characterization

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Performance incentives

Professional development opportunities

Relocation support

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Lead Geoscientist for its Stellenbosch-based subsurface team. The role focuses on integrated reservoir characterization, combining geological, geophysical, and petrophysical data to build comprehensive subsurface models and optimize hydrocarbon recovery.

The candidate will lead a multidisciplinary team, evaluate new ventures, support exploration campaigns, and contribute to strategic portfolio direction in a complex geological environment.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Geosciences, Geology or Geophysics or related field.
• 9+ years of progressive experience in geoscience with focus on reservoir characterization.
• Proven track record in leading integrated subsurface studies and building 3D reservoir models.
• Strong skills in seismic interpretation, well log analysis and core data integration.

Responsibilities

• Lead integrated interpretation and modeling of geological, geophysical, and petrophysical data to characterize reservoirs.
• Develop and validate 3D static reservoir models with structural elements and lithofacies.
• Collaborate with reservoir engineers to align geological models with fluid flow simulations.
• Mentor junior geoscientists and oversee data quality for subsurface models.
• Present interpretations and recommendations to management and JV partners.

Skills

Leadership

Integrated data analysis

Seismic interpretation

Petrophysical interpretation

Education

Master's or PhD in Geosciences

Tools

Petrel

Move

RMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the Oil & Gas industry, is actively recruiting for a Lead Geoscientist to join their innovative subsurface team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA. This leadership role will focus on the integrated characterization of reservoirs, combining geological, geophysical, and petrophysical data to build comprehensive subsurface models. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in understanding and optimizing hydrocarbon recovery from existing and prospective assets. This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned geoscientist to drive technical excellence and mentor a team of specialists. You will be instrumental in evaluating new ventures, supporting exploration campaigns, and contributing to the long-term strategic direction of our client's portfolio. The role demands a strong understanding of multi-disciplinary data integration techniques and a commitment to advancing subsurface understanding in a complex geological environment. Your expertise will be critical in unlocking the full potential of our client's assets and ensuring sustained operational success.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the integrated interpretation and modeling of geological, geophysical, and petrophysical data to fully characterize reservoirs. Develop and validate 3D static reservoir models incorporating structural elements, lithofacies, petrophysical properties, and saturation. Collaborate with reservoir engineers to ensure geological models accurately represent fluid flow behavior and support dynamic simulation. Oversee the evaluation of new exploration opportunities and provide geological input for prospect maturation. Mentor and guide junior geoscientists, fostering their technical development and team collaboration. Ensure the quality and consistency of geological and geophysical data used in subsurface modeling. Contribute to the development and implementation of advanced subsurface technologies and workflows. Present integrated subsurface interpretations and recommendations to management and joint venture partners. Stay abreast of industry best practices and emerging technologies in geoscience and reservoir characterization relevant to the Oil & Gas sector. Ensure compliance with company standards and regulatory requirements for subsurface data management and reporting.

Requirements

Master's or Ph.D. in Geosciences, Geology, Geophysics, or a related field. A minimum of 9 years of progressive experience in geoscience, with a significant focus on reservoir characterization within the Oil & Gas industry. Proven track record in leading integrated subsurface studies and developing complex 3D reservoir models. Proficiency in geological modeling software (e.g., Petrel, Move, RMS) and petrophysical interpretation tools. Strong understanding of seismic interpretation, well log analysis, and core data integration. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and leadership skills. Exceptional communication and presentation abilities, with experience presenting to technical and non-technical audiences. Ability to foster collaboration and drive consensus within multidisciplinary teams. Experience with basin analysis and regional geology is a plus. Must be eligible to work in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, a comprehensive suite of benefits including health insurance, retirement contributions, and performance incentives.
• We provide ample opportunities for professional development, including advanced training, conference attendance, and research collaborations.
• A dynamic and intellectually stimulating work environment is assured.
• Additional benefits include generous annual leave, relocation support, and wellness programs.
• This role offers a unique opportunity to lead integrated subsurface efforts within a prominent company in the Oil & Gas industry, based in the scenic region of Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA.