Principal Geoscientist - Exploration

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid and retirement fund

International travel opportunities

Leadership role

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria seeks a highly experienced Principal Geoscientist to lead exploration initiatives. The role demands strategic vision, leadership over multidisciplinary teams, and deep earth sciences expertise to identify new resource opportunities.

The candidate will oversee geological and geophysical surveys, model data, and guide management with insights for growth. International travel opportunities are included within a dynamic, results-driven environment.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Geology, Geophysics, Earth Sciences or related field.
• 10+ years of progressive geological exploration experience with a strong track record in resource discovery.
• Expertise in geological mapping, structural geology, sedimentology, and advanced geophysical interpretation techniques.
• Proficiency in geological modeling software (e.g., Petrel, Leapfrog) and data analysis tools.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex projects and multidisciplinary teams in challenging environments.
• Excellent strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and strong communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and execution of geological and geophysical exploration programs in target regions.
• Utilize advanced software for geological modeling, seismic interpretation, and resource estimation.
• Analyze and interpret diverse geological datasets, including well logs, core samples, and geophysical surveys.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to exploration teams, fostering best practices and innovation.
• Develop exploration strategies and budgets, and manage project timelines and resources effectively.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations for management, partners, and regulatory bodies regarding exploration findings and potential.

Skills

Geoscience leadership

Exploration strategy

Data interpretation

Project management

Team mentorship

Education

MSc or PhD in Geology/Geophysics

Tools

Petrel

Leapfrog

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Principal Geoscientist to lead their Exploration initiatives in Pretoria . This senior role is responsible for conceptualizing, planning, and executing geological and geophysical surveys to identify and evaluate new resource opportunities. You will utilize advanced geological modeling and data interpretation techniques to guide exploration strategies and provide critical insights to senior management. The position demands exceptional leadership qualities, a profound understanding of earth sciences, and the ability to drive significant exploration success in a dynamic market environment within Pretoria .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and execution of geological and geophysical exploration programs in target regions.
• Utilize advanced software for geological modeling, seismic interpretation, and resource estimation.
• Analyze and interpret diverse geological datasets, including well logs, core samples, and geophysical surveys.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to exploration teams, fostering best practices and innovation.
• Develop exploration strategies and budgets, and manage project timelines and resources effectively.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations for management, partners, and regulatory bodies regarding exploration findings and potential.

Requirements

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Geology , Geophysics, Earth Sciences, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in geological exploration, with a strong track record in resource discovery.
• Expertise in geological mapping, structural geology, sedimentology, and advanced geophysical interpretation techniques.
• Proficiency in geological modeling software (e.g., Petrel, Leapfrog) and data analysis tools.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex projects and multidisciplinary teams in challenging environments.
• Excellent strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and strong communication abilities.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary, bonus structure, and long-term incentive plan.
• Key leadership role with significant influence on company exploration strategy.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development in Pretoria .
• A dynamic and collaborative work culture committed to sustainable resource development.