Principal Geologist - Exploration

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonus

Medical coverage

Retirement plan

International travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Geologist to lead critical exploration initiatives in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA. The role requires directing regional exploration strategies, field campaigns, data interpretation and high‑level geological modelling to identify new mineral resources.

You will oversee drilling programs (diamond and RC), lead a team of geologists, and collaborate with stakeholders to advance projects from grassroots to development.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Geology, Economic Geology, or related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration.
• Proven experience leading exploration campaigns from grassroots to advanced stages.
• Expertise in geological mapping, structural geology, and ore deposit formation.
• Proficiency in geological modeling software (Leapfrog, Vulcan, ArcGIS).
• Strong leadership and mentoring abilities; excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement regional exploration strategies using mapping, remote sensing and historical data.
• Plan, manage and oversee detailed geological fieldwork including mapping, sampling and surveying.
• Interpret geophysical and geochemical data to identify drilling targets.
• Design and manage diamond and RC drilling programs, including core logging and analysis.
• Conduct geological modeling and resource estimation using standard software.
• Evaluate exploration prospects and provide technical recommendations for project progression.
• Prepare high‑quality technical reports, presentations and proposals for stakeholders; mentor junior geologists.

Skills

Geology expertise

Leadership

Geological mapping

Geological modeling

Project management

Communication

Data interpretation

Education

Ph.D. or Master's in Geology

Tools

Leapfrog

Vulcan

ArcGIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent international mining and exploration company, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Geologist to lead critical exploration initiatives. This pivotal role is based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA, and requires a dedicated professional to drive the discovery of new mineral resources. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, planning, and executing geological exploration programs, utilizing advanced geophysical and geochemical techniques, and interpreting complex subsurface data. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of regional geology, ore deposit models, and exploration methodologies, coupled with strong leadership and project management skills. This position offers the opportunity to significantly impact the company's future growth by identifying and evaluating prospective mineral assets. We are looking for a visionary leader with a proven track record in mineral exploration and a commitment to sustainable and responsible resource development. Your expertise will be crucial in guiding our exploration strategies and ensuring the success of our ventures. This position is based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA, and requires full commitment to on‑site exploration activities. Join a leading company and make a significant contribution to global resource discovery.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement regional exploration strategies and targets based on geological mapping, remote sensing, and historical data.
• Plan, manage, and oversee detailed geological fieldwork, including mapping, sampling, and surveying.
• Interpret geophysical and geochemical survey data to identify areas of interest for drilling.
• Design and manage diamond and RC drilling programs, including core logging and analysis.
• Conduct geological modeling and resource estimation using industry‑standard software.
• Evaluate exploration prospects and provide technical recommendations for project progression.
• Prepare high‑quality technical reports, presentations, and proposals for internal and external stakeholders.
• Mentor junior geologists and contribute to the technical development of the exploration team.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Geology, Economic Geology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration, with a focus on base metals, precious metals, or relevant commodities.
• Proven experience in leading successful exploration campaigns from grassroots to advanced stages.
• Expertise in geological mapping, structural geology, and ore deposit formation.
• Proficiency in geological modeling software (e.g., Leapfrog, Vulcan, ArcGIS).
• Strong understanding of geophysics, geochemistry, and remote sensing applications in exploration.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities and experience mentoring technical staff.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and bonus structure, comprehensive medical coverage, and an attractive retirement plan.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development are integral to this role.