Principal Exploration Geologist

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, seeks a Principal Exploration Geologist to drive greenfield and brownfield projects, defining resources and leading multidisciplinary teams. The role emphasizes field integration, data interpretation, and strategic exploration planning in a region rich with geological potential.

The successful candidate will have a PhD/Master's in Geology with 10–15 years of discovery experience, strong leadership, and proficiency in Leapfrog, ArcGIS, and Vulcan.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Geology or related earth science.
• 10–15 years of progressive mineral exploration experience.
• Proven success in identifying and advancing mineral discoveries.
• Expertise in structural geology, mineral systems, geochemistry, geophysics, and remote sensing techniques.
• Proficiency with Leapfrog, ArcGIS, and Vulcan.
• Strong leadership, project management, and team-building skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; able to present complex geological concepts.
• Willingness to travel and undertake fieldwork in Mossel Bay.
• Experience with South African geological context and exploration regulations is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead greenfield and Brownfield exploration projects from conceptualization to resource definition.
• Develop and execute comprehensive exploration programs including target generation, field mapping, sampling, and drilling.
• Interpret and integrate geological, geochemical, and geophysical data to define mineralized zones and estimate resource potential.
• Oversee junior geologists and field teams, ensuring safety and high technical standards.
• Manage exploration budgets and timelines, ensuring efficient use of resources.
• Collaborate with mine planning and resource estimation teams for seamless transition from exploration to development.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and proposals for internal and external stakeholders.
• Maintain relationships with regulators, landowners, and community stakeholders in the Mossel Bay region.
• Stay abreast of emerging exploration technologies and advocate adoption where appropriate.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the company's exploration portfolio.

Skills

Structural geology

Mineral systems

Geochemistry

Geophysics

Remote sensing

Leadership

Project management

Team building

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Geology

PhD in Geology

Tools

Leapfrog

ArcGIS

Vulcan

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading exploration and development company within the global mining sector , is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Principal Exploration Geologist . Based in the strategically located area of Mossel Bay, Western Cape , this senior role will lead critical exploration initiatives aimed at discovering and delineating new mineral resources. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of regional geology, advanced exploration techniques, and a proven track record of successful resource discovery. This position involves significant fieldwork, data interpretation, and strategic planning, contributing directly to the company's growth and future success. This role offers the opportunity to work in a region known for its diverse geological potential.

Key Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities Lead and manage greenfield and brownfield exploration projects from conceptualization through to resource definition. Develop and execute comprehensive exploration programs, including target generation, field mapping, sampling, and drilling campaigns. Interpret and integrate geological, geochemical, and geophysical data to define mineralized zones and estimate resource potential. Oversee and mentor junior geologists and field teams, ensuring high standards of technical execution and safety. Manage exploration budgets and timelines effectively, ensuring efficient use of resources. Collaborate with mine planning and resource estimation teams to ensure seamless transition from exploration to development. Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and proposals for internal review and external stakeholders. Maintain strong relationships with regulatory bodies, landowners, and community stakeholders in the Mossel Bay, Western Cape region. Stay abreast of emerging exploration technologies and methodologies, advocating for their adoption where appropriate. Contribute to the strategic direction of the company's exploration portfolio.

Requirements

Requirements Master's or Ph.D. degree in Geology or a related earth science discipline. A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration, with a strong focus on discovery and resource delineation. Proven success in identifying and advancing significant mineral discoveries, preferably in precious or base metals. Expertise in structural geology, mineral systems, and various exploration techniques (e.g., geochemistry, geophysics, remote sensing). Proficiency with geological modeling software (e.g., Leapfrog, ArcGIS, Vulcan). Strong leadership, project management, and team-building skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of presenting complex geological concepts. Experience working in diverse geological settings and challenging terrains. Familiarity with South African geological context and exploration regulations is advantageous. Willingness to travel and undertake fieldwork, alongside hybrid office responsibilities in Mossel Bay, Western Cape .

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and bonus structure, commensurate with the seniority and impact of this role. The benefits package includes comprehensive health insurance, retirement contributions, and generous paid time off. Opportunities for continuous professional development, including attendance at international conferences and workshops, are provided. The company fosters a collaborative and innovative work environment, encouraging geological expertise and career progression within the dynamic mining exploration sector .