Principal Exploration Geologist - Base Metals

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,600,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical and dental coverage

Pension plan

Ample vacation time

International travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town, Western Cape, seeks a Principal Exploration Geologist to lead greenfield and brownfield exploration programs for base metals. You will interpret geological, geochemical, and geophysical data to identify drill targets and design target programs.

You will manage budgets, supervise mapping, sampling, and core logging, and develop geological models with resource teams while mentoring staff. A PG registration is advantageous.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Geology with a specialization in economic mineral deposits.
• Minimum 10 years in mineral exploration, with 5+ years in senior/principal roles focused on base metals.
• Proven track record of discovering economic mineral deposits.
• Expertise in structural geology, petrology and ore deposit genesis.
• Proficiency with Leapfrog, Vulcan, Surpac and GIS software; strong data handling.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of greenfield and brownfield exploration programs for base metals.
• Interpret geological, geochemical, and geophysical data to target drill sites.
• Manage budgets and resources for exploration projects.
• Oversee geological mapping, sampling, and core logging activities.
• Develop geological models and resource estimates with reserve teams.
• Ensure data management and quality control in line with best practices.
• Mentor exploration geologists and field staff.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and investment committee materials.
• Engage with local communities, regulators, and stakeholders.
• Stay updated on emerging exploration technologies and methodologies.

Skills

Exploration leadership

Leapfrog

Vulcan

Surpac

Geology modeling

GIS

Geophysics

Geochemistry

Leadership

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Geology

PhD in Economic Geology

Job description

About the Role

Join a globally recognized mining powerhouse as a Principal Exploration Geologist, spearheading critical exploration initiatives in Cape Town, Western Cape. Our client is dedicated to discovering and developing the next generation of world-class mineral deposits, with a strong emphasis on base metals. This senior leadership position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to high-impact exploration projects, leveraging your deep understanding of geological systems and advanced exploration techniques. You will be instrumental in identifying new targets, designing and managing exploration programs, and mentoring a talented team of geologists. This role requires a blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and hands-on field experience. The ideal candidate will possess a passion for discovery and a proven track record in successful exploration campaigns within the South African context and beyond. You will collaborate extensively with geophysicists, geochemists, and mine development teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and execution of greenfield and brownfield exploration programs for base metals.
• Interpret complex geological, geochemical, and geophysical data to identify and prioritize drill targets.
• Manage budgets and resources effectively for exploration projects, ensuring efficient deployment.
• Oversee and conduct geological mapping, sampling, and core logging activities.
• Develop geological models and resource estimates in collaboration with resource geologists.
• Ensure adherence to best practices in exploration geology, including data management and quality control.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to exploration geologists and field staff.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for senior management and investment committees.
• Foster strong relationships with local communities, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders.
• Stay current with emerging exploration technologies and methodologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Geology or Economic Geology, with a specialization in economic mineral deposits.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in mineral exploration, with at least 5 years in a senior or principal role focused on base metals (e.g., copper, nickel, platinum group elements).
• Demonstrated success in discovering economic mineral deposits.
• Expertise in structural geology, petrology, and ore deposit genesis.
• Proficiency with geological modeling software (e.g., Leapfrog, Vulcan, Surpac) and GIS applications.
• Strong understanding of exploration geophysics and geochemistry.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills.
• Experience working in diverse geological terrains, particularly within Southern Africa.
• Ability to travel to remote field locations as required.
• Professional Geoscientist (PG) or equivalent registration is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package commensurate with experience, including a significant bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, a robust pension plan, and ample vacation time are provided.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development, including attendance at leading industry conferences, are actively encouraged.
• This position is based in Cape Town, Western Cape, offering a stimulating work environment and the chance to shape the future of mineral exploration for Our client.