Principal Exploration Geoscientist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Exploration Geoscientist to lead ambitious mineral exploration programs in and around Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. You will design, execute, and interpret complex geophysical surveys, geochemical sampling, and drilling campaigns, while mentoring junior staff and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams.

This senior role requires a strong track record of discovering deposits, expert interpretation of geophysical and geochemical data, and the ability to manage large,

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Exploration Geophysics, Economic Geology, or a related geoscience discipline.
• A minimum of 12 years of experience in mineral exploration, with a focus on greenfields exploration and target generation.
• Demonstrated success in discovering significant mineral deposits.
• Expertise in multiple exploration techniques, including advanced geophysical interpretation and geochemical analysis.
• Proficiency in Leapfrog, ArcGIS, Geosoft and related software.

Responsibilities

• Design, manage, and execute comprehensive exploration programs including geological mapping, geochemical sampling, and geophysical surveys.
• Interpret diverse geoscience data to identify and delineate mineral prospects.
• Develop and refine geological models and exploration targeting strategies.
• Oversee planning and execution of diamond and RC drilling programs.
• Mentor and lead junior geoscientists and coordinate with external consultants.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder Management

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Exploration Geophysics, Economic Geology, or related

Tools

Leapfrog

ArcGIS

Geosoft

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking mining exploration company, is looking for a Principal Exploration Geoscientist to lead ambitious exploration programs in and around Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This senior role is integral to discovering new mineral deposits and expanding existing resource bases. The Principal Geoscientist will be responsible for designing, executing, and interpreting complex geophysical surveys, geochemical sampling, and drilling campaigns. This position demands a high level of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and the ability to mentor junior geoscientists. The role involves extensive fieldwork and office-based analysis, contributing directly to the company's growth and success in the mineral resource sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, manage, and execute comprehensive exploration programs, including geological mapping, geochemical sampling, and geophysical surveys.
• Interpret a wide range of geoscience data (geology, geophysics, geochemistry, drilling logs) to identify and delineate mineral prospects.
• Develop and refine geological models and exploration targeting strategies.
• Oversee the planning and execution of diamond and RC drilling programs.
• Manage external consultants and service providers involved in exploration activities.
• Ensure all exploration activities are conducted safely, efficiently, and in compliance with environmental regulations.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and budgets for exploration projects.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior exploration geoscientists and geologists.
• Collaborate with resource geologists and mine planning teams to transition prospects into viable mining projects.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Exploration Geophysics, Economic Geology, or a related geoscience discipline.
• A minimum of 12 years of experience in mineral exploration, with a strong focus on greenfields exploration and target generation.
• Demonstrated success in discovering significant mineral deposits.
• Expertise in multiple exploration techniques, including advanced geophysical interpretation (e.g., magnetic, gravity, EM) and geochemical analysis.
• Proficiency in industry-standard exploration software (e.g., Leapfrog, ArcGIS, Geosoft).
• Proven ability to manage complex exploration projects from conception to resource definition.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience working in diverse geological terrains, preferably including those found in KwaZulu-Natal .
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package, including annual bonuses, comprehensive health insurance, and retirement savings plans. This role provides significant opportunities for professional growth, travel, and contribution to high-impact exploration initiatives. The hybrid work arrangement allows for a balance between field exploration and office-based strategic planning in the vibrant city of Durban .