Principal Structural and Orebody Knowledge Geologist

Glencore; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 900 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading mining company in Johannesburg is seeking a Principal Structural and Orebody Knowledge Geologist with over 10 years of experience. The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Geology, advanced skills in mining software, and strong problem-solving abilities. Key responsibilities include developing integrated geological models, conducting field surveys, and providing technical support and mentorship. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to innovative solutions in the geological field.

Qualifications

• Over 10 years of experience in a structural geology role in the mining industry.
• Proven track record in structural geology and modelling techniques.
• Strong understanding of QA/QC processes and best practices.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain integrated geological and geotechnical structural models.
• Conduct comprehensive geological field surveys to collect rock samples.
• Analyze and interpret geological structures for enhanced understanding.

Skills

Advanced skills in mining software

Strong geological and structural interpretation skills

Problem-solving ability

Exceptional communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Geology or related field

Master’s or PhD preferred

Tools

Datamine

LeapFrog

Fusion

Seequent Central

Job description

Principal Structural and Orebody Knowledge Geologist

Job Location: Gauteng, Johannesburg

Deadline: January 15, 2026

Qualifications/Skills

• Educational Background: Bachelor’s Degree in Geology or a related field; a Master’s or PhD is preferred.
• Experience: Over 10 years of experience in a structural geology role within the mining industry, demonstrating a proven track record in structural geology and modelling techniques for both underground and open‑pit operations.
• Software Proficiency: Advanced skills in mining software, preferably with expertise in Datamine, LeapFrog, Fusion and Seequent Central.
• Technical Knowledge: Strong geological and structural interpretation skills, with a solid understanding of QA/QC processes along the geological value chain and best practices for diamond drill sampling.
• Problem‑Solving Ability: A solutions‑oriented mindset with excellent problem‑solving skills, capable of addressing complex geological challenges.
• Communication Skills: Exceptional report writing and communication skills, with the ability to convey complex geological concepts to diverse audiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Integrated Modelling: Develop and maintain integrated geological and geotechnical structural models by synthesizing all relevant geoscientific datasets, ensuring accurate representation of orebody characteristics and structural complexities.
• Model Updates: Regularly update and refine integrated structural models to reflect new data and findings, ensuring they remain relevant for ongoing operations and exploration.
• Field Surveys: Conduct comprehensive geological field surveys to collect rock samples, structural data, and geological information using advanced geological mapping techniques and geophysical methods. Data Collection and Management: Gather, document, and maintain geological data, ensuring organized records that facilitate easy access and analysis.
• Laboratory Analysis: Oversee the analysis of rock samples in accredited laboratories to determine mineral composition, age, and deformation history, ensuring rigorous quality control and validation processes.
• Structural Analysis: Analyze and interpret the orientation, geometry, and relationships of geological structures such as folds, faults, and fractures to enhance understanding of geological processes and orebody behaviour.
• Geological Modelling: Create detailed 2D and 3D geological models using advanced software (e.g., Datamine, LeapFrog) to visualise subsurface structures and predict geological and geotechnical behaviour, providing essential input for resource and geotechnical modelling.
• Risk Assessment: Identify and communicate geological and geotechnical risks and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Collaboration: Work closely with internal and external technical experts to provide geological expertise and support for various projects, ensuring alignment with best practices and industry standards.
• Research Engagement: Participate in scientific research initiatives to advance the field of structural geology and contribute to innovative solutions for geological challenges.
• Technical Support: Assist in internal technical and toll‑gate reviews for operations and projects, ensuring adherence to geological standards and practices.
• Due Diligence: Support technical evaluations and due diligence reviews for investment opportunities, providing insights into geological risks and opportunities.
• Training and Mentorship: Provide training, mentoring, and support to mine geologists across Glencore Copper operations, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.
• Assurance Activities: Deliver level two assurance to mining and exploration projects, ensuring compliance with geological standards and practices.
• Operational Guidance: Advise operational sites on appropriate data collection techniques and methods to enhance geological understanding and data quality.
• Technology Implementation: Assist in the investigation and implementation of new mining and exploration technologies to improve operational efficiency and effectiveness.