Principal Exploration Geologist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work approvals

Bonuses tied to exploration success

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Exploration Geologist to direct and execute advanced exploration programs for mining projects, with a remote-first team structure. The role emphasizes autonomy, strategic planning, and leadership across diverse terrains, including both greenfield and brownfield opportunities.

The ideal candidate will have a PhD or MSc in Economic Geology or related geoscience, 10+ years of exploration experience, and expert proficiency in Leapfrog, Vulcan, and Datamine.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Economic Geology, Mineral Exploration, or related geoscience.
• Advanced skills in geological modeling and data interpretation.
• Strong communication and report-writing abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic exploration plans for identifying new mineral resources, focusing on precious metals and base metals.
• Oversee and interpret geological mapping, geochemical sampling, and geophysical surveys.
• Manage and conduct detailed structural and lithological analysis of exploration targets.
• Direct the planning and execution of drilling programs (RC, diamond drilling) and interpretation of core logs.
• Utilize advanced geological software for 3D modeling, data visualization, and resource estimation.
• Collaborate remotely with internal stakeholders, including geophysicists, geochemists, and resource modellers.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, summaries, and presentations for senior management and investment committees.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior geologists and exploration teams working remotely.
• Ensure exploration activities comply with best practices, environmental standards, and corporate governance.
• Identify and assess emerging exploration technologies and methodologies.

Skills

Independent work

Remote collaboration

Communication skills

Technical reporting

Education

MSc or PhD in Economic Geology

Tools

Leapfrog

Vulcan

Datamine

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in mineral exploration and resource development, is searching for a highly accomplished Principal Exploration Geologist to join their pioneering, remote-first team. This senior position offers the unique opportunity to direct and execute advanced geological exploration programs across diverse terrains, with a primary focus on identifying and evaluating significant new mineral deposits. Operating remotely, you will leverage cutting-edge technology and your extensive geological expertise to guide exploration strategies, from initial reconnaissance to detailed resource definition. The successful candidate will be a thought leader in the field, capable of interpreting complex geological data, driving innovative exploration methodologies, and contributing significantly to the company's discovery pipeline. This role is designed for an expert geologist seeking autonomy and the chance to influence major exploration initiatives from anywhere.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic exploration plans for identifying new mineral resources, focusing on precious metals and base metals.
• Oversee and interpret geological mapping, geochemical sampling, and geophysical surveys.
• Manage and conduct detailed structural and lithological analysis of exploration targets.
• Direct the planning and execution of drilling programs (RC, diamond drilling) and the interpretation of core logs.
• Utilize advanced geological software for 3D modeling, data visualization, and resource estimation.
• Collaborate remotely with internal stakeholders, including geophysicists, geochemists, and resource modellers.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, summaries, and presentations for senior management and investment committees.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior geologists and exploration teams working remotely.
• Ensure exploration activities comply with best practices, environmental standards, and corporate governance.
• Identify and assess emerging exploration technologies and methodologies.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Economic Geology, Mineral Exploration, or a related geoscience discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in mineral exploration, with a strong emphasis on greenfield and brownfield project evaluation.
• Demonstrated success in discovering commercially viable mineral deposits.
• Expert proficiency in geological modeling software (e.g., Leapfrog, Vulcan, Datamine).
• Extensive knowledge of various deposit types and their geological controls.
• Excellent understanding of geochemical and geophysical exploration techniques.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with a high degree of scientific rigor.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with experience presenting to diverse, often remote, audiences.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple projects effectively in a remote setting.
• Professional Geoscientist (P.Geo) or equivalent registration is highly desirable.

Benefits

This remote-first position offers a highly competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and potential for significant bonuses linked to exploration success. Our client provides robust support for professional development, including access to online training platforms and industry conferences. Employees benefit from the flexibility and autonomy of a remote work arrangement, enabling a superior work-life balance. The opportunity to shape the future of mineral discovery for a globally respected company from your home office is a primary advantage. This role offers unparalleled professional growth and the chance to leave a lasting legacy in the field of exploration geology, irrespective of your physical location in Centurion, Gauteng , or elsewhere.