Lead Mine Geologist

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Career growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Mine Geologist to join a major mining operation in Sandton, Gauteng. The role oversees geological activities within a mining block, guides resource estimation, and supports mine planning.

You will lead geologists and technicians, interpret data, and develop models using Leapfrog, Vulcan and Datamine. Strong structural geology and orebody expertise are essential, with SACNASP registration as an advantage.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Geology or Economic Geology.
• Minimum of 8 years' experience in mine geology with emphasis on operational geology and resource estimation.
• Proven experience with geological modeling software (Leapfrog, Vulcan, Datamine).
• Strong understanding of structural geology, stratigraphy and ore-deposit geology relevant to the local mining context.
• Experience supervising and managing a team of geologists and technicians.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; able to present technical information clearly.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the geological team responsible for a specific mining block or project.
• Develop and maintain accurate geological models and resource estimates.
• Oversee geological data acquisition, including core logging, mapping, and sampling.
• Provide geological input and support for short-term and long-term mine planning.
• Conduct geological reviews of drill core and site investigations.
• Identify and evaluate geological hazards and opportunities impacting mining operations.
• Ensure compliance with geological standards, data management protocols, and reporting requirements.
• Collaborate closely with mine operations, mine planning, and geostatistics teams.
• Mentor and develop junior geological staff.
• Contribute to exploration programs and target generation within the tenement area.

Skills

Analytical

Problem-solving

Decision-making

Communication

Team leadership

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Geology or Economic Geology

Tools

Leapfrog

Vulcan

Datamine

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major mining operation, is looking for an experienced Lead Mine Geologist to join their team in Sandton, Gauteng. This role is responsible for overseeing all geological activities within a specific mining area, ensuring accurate resource estimation, geological modeling, and providing critical support to mine planning and operations. The Lead Mine Geologist will lead a team of geologists and geological technicians, directing exploration and resource definition programs, interpreting geological data, and advising on geological risks and opportunities. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of structural geology, stratigraphy, and orebody characteristics relevant to the mining activities in the region. This position offers a challenging and rewarding opportunity to contribute to the success of a significant mining project in a key economic hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the geological team responsible for a specific mining block or project.
• Develop and maintain accurate geological models and resource estimates.
• Oversee geological data acquisition, including core logging, mapping, and sampling.
• Provide geological input and support for short-term and long-term mine planning.
• Conduct geological reviews of drill core and site investigations.
• Identify and evaluate geological hazards and opportunities impacting mining operations.
• Ensure compliance with geological standards, data management protocols, and reporting requirements.
• Collaborate closely with mine operations, mine planning, and geostatistics teams.
• Mentor and develop junior geological staff.
• Contribute to exploration programs and target generation within the tenement area.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Geology or Economic Geology.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in mine geology, with a strong emphasis on operational geology and resource estimation.
• Proven experience in geological modeling software (e.g., Leapfrog, Vulcan, Datamine).
• Solid understanding of structural geology, stratigraphy, and ore deposit geology relevant to the local mining context.
• Experience in supervising and managing a team of geologists and technicians.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to work on-site in the Sandton, Gauteng vicinity.
• Professional registration with SACNASP is an advantage.
• Experience with geostatistical analysis is preferred.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, performance bonuses, and comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits. Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within a leading mining organization are substantial. The position is based in the commercial heart of Johannesburg, Sandton, Gauteng , offering excellent accessibility and amenities. Our client is committed to maintaining a safe, healthy, and supportive work environment, with a strong focus on employee development and well‑being.