Principal Exploration Geoscientist

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 3,500,000 - 5,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation package

Medical aid and retirement fund

International travel

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng, seeks a Principal Exploration Geoscientist for a globally recognized mining leader. You will identify and evaluate mineral opportunities worldwide, lead multidisciplinary teams, and apply geophysical and geochemical methods to shape the exploration portfolio and drive resource discovery.

The role requires an MSc/PhD in geophysics or geology, 10+ years in mineral exploration, and expert data integration with geophysical datasets.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Geophysics, Geology, or a related Earth Science discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration with a geophysics/geochemistry focus.
• Proven ability to interpret multiple geophysical datasets and integrate geological and geophysical data.

Responsibilities

• Lead exploration programs using geophysical and geochemical techniques.
• Integrate diverse datasets to generate and rank exploration targets.
• Develop data processing and inversion methods for geophysical data.
• Oversee high-resolution geophysical surveys (magnetic, gravity, EM, IP, seismic).
• Manage geochemical sampling and interpret assay data in a geological context.
• Build 3D geological models with geophysical constraints.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication

Mentorship

Education

Master's or PhD in Geophysics/Geology

Tools

Geosoft Oasis Montaj

Magix

Velocity

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in the mining industry, is actively seeking a highly experienced Principal Exploration Geoscientist to join their strategic growth team. This senior role, based in the vibrant commercial hub of Sandton, Gauteng , will play a crucial part in identifying and evaluating new mineral opportunities worldwide. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of geophysical and geochemical methods, geological interpretation, and data integration techniques to pinpoint high-potential exploration targets. You will lead multidisciplinary teams, contributing cutting-edge scientific insights to shape the company's exploration portfolio and drive future resource discovery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and interpretation of exploration programs using a range of geophysical and geochemical techniques.
• Integrate diverse geological, geophysical, and gechemical datasets to generate and rank exploration targets.
• Develop and apply advanced data processing and inversion methodologies for geophysical data.
• Oversee the acquisition and interpretation of high-resolution geophysical surveys (e.g., magnetic, gravity, electromagnetic, seismic).
• Manage geochemical sampling programs and interpret assay data in a geological context.
• Collaborate with geologists and other geoscientists to build robust 3D geological models incorporating geophysical constraints.
• Conduct technical reviews and provide expert advice on exploration projects globally.
• Mentor junior geoscientists and contribute to the continuous improvement of exploration methodologies.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for senior management and investment committees.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in exploration geophysics, geochemistry, and related technologies.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Geophysics, Geology, or a related Earth Science discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration, with a specialization in geophysics and/or geochemistry.
• Proven expertise in the interpretation of various geophysical datasets (e.g., aeromagnetics, ground magnetics, gravity, EM, IP, seismic).
• Proficiency in geophysical modelling and inversion software (e.g., Geosoft/Oasis Montaj, Magix, Velocity, various inversion packages).
• Strong understanding of geological controls on mineralisation and experience in integrating geological and geophysical data.
• Experience with geochemical data analysis and interpretation.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly.
• Demonstrated leadership potential and experience in managing technical projects or teams.
• Experience in various geological settings and deposit types is highly advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary package, including significant bonuses and potential long-term incentives. Benefits include comprehensive medical aid, a top-tier retirement fund, and ample opportunities for international travel and professional development. This role is based in Sandton, Gauteng , offering a strategic position at the forefront of global mineral exploration. The hybrid work arrangement allows for effective collaboration and focused work.