Principal Exploration Geologist - Base Metals

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

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle

Travel allowance

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Exploration Geologist to lead major base metals exploration projects in Centurion, Gauteng. You will design programs, manage field teams, and integrate diverse data to identify targets and support resource growth.

The role demands strong leadership, robust budgeting, and clear communication with multidisciplinary teams. You will guide 3D modeling, regulatory liaison, and economic assessments while ensuring health and safety compliance on remote camps and

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Geology or related geoscience.
• Minimum 10 years in mineral exploration with base metals focus.
• Experience designing and leading exploration programs and budgets.
• Proficiency in Leapfrog, ArcGIS and ioGAS; strong data interpretation.
• Willingness to travel within Gauteng and other areas; valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and execute comprehensive exploration programs for base metals.
• Supervise and mentor junior geologists and field teams in mapping, sampling, and drilling.
• Interpret and integrate geophysical, geochemical, and drill core data.
• Create 3D ore body models using geological software.
• Identify and prioritize new exploration targets via technical evaluation.
• Manage exploration budgets and resources for cost-efficient operations.
• Liaise with regulators and stakeholders on exploration activities.
• Contribute to resource estimation and preliminary economic assessments.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and presentations for senior management.
• Ensure health, safety, and environmental best practices on site.

Skills

Geology

Exploration leadership

Field operations

Technical reporting

Education

Master's degree in Geology

Tools

Leapfrog

ArcGIS

ioGAS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent and rapidly expanding mining group, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Exploration Geologist to lead their ambitious exploration initiatives in the Centurion, Gauteng region and surrounding areas. This senior role is critical for identifying and evaluating new greenfield and brownfield targets, primarily focusing on base metals . The Principal Geologist will be responsible for designing and implementing exploration programs, managing field operations, interpreting geological data, and ultimately contributing to the discovery of significant mineral deposits. You will play a key role in shaping the company's future resource base, working closely with geochemists, geophysicists, and mine planning teams to ensure strategic alignment and success. This is a demanding but immensely rewarding position for a seasoned geologist driven by discovery.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and execute comprehensive exploration programs for base metals.


• Supervise and mentor junior geologists and field teams engaged in geological mapping, sampling, and drilling.


• Interpret and integrate diverse geological datasets, including geophysical surveys, geochemical analyses, and drill core data.


• Utilize advanced geological modeling software to create 3D models of ore bodies.


• Identify and prioritize new exploration targets based on rigorous technical evaluation.


• Manage exploration budgets and resources effectively, ensuring cost-efficient operations.


• Liaise with regulatory bodies and stakeholders regarding exploration activities.


• Contribute to resource estimation and preliminary economic assessments.


• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for senior management.


• Ensure adherence to best practices in health, safety, and environmental management during all exploration activities.

Requirements

A Master's degree in Geology or a related geoscience discipline is essential. A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in mineral exploration, with a strong focus on base metals (e.g., copper, nickel, zinc, lead). Demonstrated success in discovering economic mineral deposits. Expertise in geological mapping, structural geology, and deposit modeling. Proficiency with exploration software (e.g., Leapfrog, ArcGIS, ioGAS). Experience managing field operations and budgets in remote or challenging environments. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across disciplines. Must be willing to travel extensively within Gauteng and other operational areas as required. A valid driver's license and ability to obtain necessary security clearances.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive and highly competitive salary package, reflecting the seniority and critical nature of this role, along with performance-driven bonuses. Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement fund contributions are standard. This position is primarily field-based, requiring significant time on-site near Centurion and in exploration camps, with dedicated time allocated for data analysis and reporting. Opportunities for professional development, conference attendance and career advancement within a growing organization are abundant. A company vehicle and travel allowance are provided. Join a company committed to ethical exploration and sustainable resource development in South Africa.