Principal Geologist - Structural Interpretation

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Pension fund

Generous leave entitlements

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Geologist in the Bloemfontein area to lead structural interpretation for mining operations and exploration projects. The role focuses on developing 3D structural models from mapping, drilling data, and geophysical information to guide mine planning and resource estimation.

The ideal candidate holds an MSc or PhD in Geology with a specialization in Structural Geology or Tectonics and brings 10–15 years of mining industry experience, with strong leadership and

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Geology with a specialization in Structural Geology or Tectonics.
• 10–15+ years in structural geological interpretation, with mining sector experience.
• Experience integrating diverse datasets (surface mapping, core logging, geophysics, geochemistry).

Responsibilities

• Lead structural geological interpretation for active mining operations and exploration projects.
• Develop and refine detailed 3D structural models using mapping, drilling data and geophysics.
• Analyze complex structural features and their relation to mineralization.
• Collaborate with resource geologists, mine planning engineers and geophysicists for integrated models.
• Mentor junior geologists in structural analysis techniques.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports and geological summaries.

Skills

Structural geology

3D modeling

Data integration

Leadership/mentoring

Education

MSc or PhD in Geology (Structural Geology/Tectonics)

Tools

Leapfrog

Vulcan

SKUA-GOCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent mining house with extensive operations in the Bloemfontein area, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Geologist with specialized expertise in structural interpretation. This senior role is critical for understanding the complex geological frameworks of our client's orebodies, particularly those influenced by significant faulting and folding. You will lead the geological interpretation efforts, integrating diverse datasets to build robust 3D structural models that inform mine planning, resource estimation, and exploration targeting. The successful candidate will provide expert guidance on the geological controls of mineralization, playing a vital role in unlocking the full potential of our client's assets in the Free State .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the structural geological interpretation for active mining operations and exploration projects.
• Develop and refine detailed 3D structural models using geological mapping, drilling data, and geophysical information.
• Analyze and interpret complex structural features, including faults, folds, and lineations, and their relationship to mineralization.
• Collaborate closely with resource geologists, mine planning engineers, and geophysicists to ensure integrated geological models.
• Provide expert advice on the implications of geological structures for mine design, safety, and resource continuity.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of exploration strategies targeting structurally controlled deposits.
• Mentor and guide junior geologists in structural analysis techniques.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, presentations, and geological summaries.
• Ensure adherence to geological data management standards and best practices.
• Stay current with advancements in structural geology and modeling techniques.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Geology with a specialization in Structural Geology or Tectonics.
• A minimum of 10-15 years of experience in structural geological interpretation, with a significant portion within the mining industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in integrating diverse geological datasets (surface mapping, core logging, geophysics, geochemistry).
• Proficiency in 3D geological modeling software (e.g., Leapfrog, Vulcan, SKUA-GOCAD).
• Strong understanding of structural controls on various deposit types relevant to the Free State region.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking capabilities.
• Superior report writing and presentation skills.
• Proven ability to lead technical projects and mentor junior staff.
• Experience working on large, complex orebodies.
• Professional registration with a relevant geological body is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a leading compensation package, including a competitive base salary and performance-related bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical insurance, a robust pension fund, and generous leave entitlements are standard.
• Opportunities for professional development, attending industry conferences, and contributing to high-impact projects are readily available.
• The role is based near Bloemfontein , providing a stable and supportive working environment within a major mining organization.