Senior Exploration Geochemist - Critical Minerals

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance incentives

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape, seeks a Senior Exploration Geochemist to lead geochemical programs for critical minerals. The role focuses on designing sampling schemes, interpreting multi-element datasets, and guiding drill-target selection.

You will collaborate with geologists and geophysicists, manage field programs and budgets, and communicate results through technical reports and maps. A MSc/PhD and 7+ years in discovery-focused exploration are essential.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Geochemistry, Economic Geology, or related earth science.
• Minimum 7 years in exploration geochemistry focused on discovery.
• Experience with critical minerals (REEs, Li, Co, V) preferred.
• Proficient in geochemical data analysis software ioGAS, GCDkit, Gemcom.

Responsibilities

• Design and manage geochemical exploration programs (soil, sediment, rock sampling).
• Interpret multi-element data using statistical methods.
• Identify drill targets and develop exploration models.
• Prepare technical reports and maps for stakeholders.
• Manage budgets and timelines for geochemical programs.
• Collaborate with geology and geophysics teams.

Skills

Geochemical analysis

Critical thinking

Communication skills

Fieldwork

Independent worker

Team collaboration

Education

MSc or PhD in Geochemistry

Tools

ioGAS

GCDkit

Gemcom

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading exploration company focused on identifying and developing strategic mineral resources, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Exploration Geochemist to join their team in Upington, Northern Cape. This role is pivotal in the discovery of new deposits, particularly those rich in critical minerals essential for future technologies. The successful candidate will lead the design, implementation, and interpretation of geochemical exploration programs, utilizing advanced analytical techniques and multi-elemental data to delineate targets. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to high-impact exploration projects in a region known for its mineral potential. We are looking for an expert geochemist with a deep understanding of exploration methodologies and a proven ability to translate geochemical data into actionable exploration strategies within the Mining sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and manage comprehensive geochemical exploration programs (e.g., soil, stream sediment, rock chip, biogeochemical sampling).
• Select appropriate sampling methods, sample densities, and analytical techniques for target commodities, with a focus on critical minerals.
• Oversee the collection, preparation, and laboratory analysis of geological samples.
• Interpret multi-element geochemical data using statistical and multivariate analysis techniques.
• Develop and refine geochemical exploration models and identify high-priority drill targets.
• Collaborate closely with geologists, geophysicists, and other members of the exploration team.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, maps, and presentations for internal review and stakeholder communication.
• Manage exploration budgets and timelines related to geochemical programs.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in exploration geochemistry and related technologies.
• Ensure the quality and integrity of all geochemical data generated.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Geochemistry, Economic Geology, or a related earth science discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in exploration geochemistry, with a strong emphasis on discovery-focused projects.
• Proven track record in the exploration for critical minerals (e.g., rare earth elements, lithium, cobalt, vanadium) is highly desirable.
• Extensive experience with various geochemical exploration techniques and interpretation methods.
• Proficiency in geochemical data analysis software (e.g., ioGAS, GCDkit, Gemcom).
• Strong understanding of geological controls on mineralization and deposit formation.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a field-oriented environment.
• Willingness to travel to remote exploration sites as required.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance incentives, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement benefits.
• The role provides significant opportunities for professional growth and involvement in cutting-edge exploration projects.
• Join a forward-thinking exploration company committed to sustainable resource development in the rich mineral landscape of the Northern Cape.