Principal Exploration Geochemist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Exploration Geochemist based in George, Western Cape, to lead geochemical exploration programs across multiple commodities. You will design, implement, and interpret complex surveys, guiding exploration strategy with extensive experience and advanced analytics.

The role emphasizes target generation, collaboration with geoscientists, and leadership of a high-caliber team while contributing to international exploration efforts.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Geochemistry, Geology, or related Earth Science with strong geochemistry focus
• Minimum 12 years of experience in mineral exploration geochemistry
• Expertise in statistical analysis and multivariate methods (R, Python, ISA-9)
• Proficiency with geochemical modeling/visualization software (ioGAS, GCDkit, ArcGIS, MapInfo)
• Broad knowledge of ore deposit types and geochemical signatures
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Willingness to travel to remote exploration sites
• Experience in South African geological context, especially Western Cape is a plus

Responsibilities

• Design and manage geochemical exploration programs (soil, stream sediment, rock chip, MMI)
• Develop sampling methodologies and QA/QC protocols
• Oversee laboratory analysis selection and data acquisition
• Perform statistical, multivariate, and spatial analysis of geochemical data
• Interpret results with geological/geophysical data to rank targets
• Prepare geochemical reports, presentations, and exploration recommendations
• Collaborate with geologists, geophysicists, and project managers
• Mentor junior geochemists and contribute to team development
• Stay updated with advances in geochemical exploration techniques and software

Skills

Statistical analysis

Multivariate analysis

Geochemistry expertise

Leadership

Education

Ph.D. in Geochemistry

MSc in Geochemistry/Geology

Tools

ioGAS

GCDkit

ArcGIS

MapInfo

R

Python

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and innovative exploration company, is seeking a distinguished Principal Exploration Geochemist to lead their geochemical exploration programs across various commodities. Based in the scenic region of George, Western Cape , this senior role will be pivotal in designing, implementing, and interpreting complex geochemical surveys to identify and prioritize new mineral exploration targets. The successful candidate will leverage extensive experience and advanced analytical techniques to guide exploration strategy and contribute significantly to discovering economically viable mineral deposits. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on diverse projects, collaborate with a talented team of geoscientists, and make a substantial impact on the future of exploration in George, Western Cape and internationally. We are looking for a visionary leader with a deep understanding of geochemical principles and their application in modern mineral exploration.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and manage comprehensive geochemical exploration programs, including soil, stream sediment, rock chip, and mobile metal ion surveys.
• Develop sampling methodologies and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) protocols to ensure data integrity.
• Oversee laboratory analysis selection, sample submission, and data acquisition.
• Perform advanced statistical analysis, multivariate analysis, and spatial data analysis of geochemical datasets.
• Interpret geochemical results in conjunction with geological, geophysical, and other relevant data to generate and rank exploration targets.
• Prepare detailed geochemical reports, technical presentations, and exploration recommendations.
• Collaborate closely with exploration geologists, geophysicists, and project managers.
• Mentor junior geochemists and contribute to the technical development of the exploration team.
• Stay current with advancements in geochemical exploration techniques, instrumentation, and software.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Geochemistry, Geology, or a related Earth Science discipline with a strong focus on geochemistry.
• A minimum of 12 years of relevant experience in mineral exploration geochemistry, with a significant track record of successful target generation.
• Demonstrated expertise in statistical analysis and multivariate methods applied to geochemical data (e.g., R, Python, ISA-9).
• Proficiency with geochemical modeling and visualization software (e.g., ioGAS, GCDkit, ArcGIS, MapInfo).
• Broad knowledge of various ore deposit types and their associated geochemical signatures.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively present complex findings.
• Willingness to travel to remote exploration sites as needed.
• Experience working within the South African geological context, particularly in the Western Cape region, is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive salary and a performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund, and other benefits are included.
• The company offers excellent opportunities for professional growth, continuing education, and involvement in innovative exploration projects.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for candidates relocating to George .
• Join a forward-thinking company committed to responsible exploration and scientific excellence.