Senior Exploration Geologist - Base Metals

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonuses

Career growth opportunities

Training with modern exploration tech

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, South Africa, seeks a Senior Exploration Geologist to lead field exploration programs for base metals across remote terrains. You will design and execute exploration workstreams, interpret complex datasets, and supervise drilling campaigns while coordinating with cross-functional teams.

The role requires 7+ years in mineral exploration, strong base metals knowledge, and proven targets generation with excellent reporting and communication skills.

Qualifications

• 7+ years progressive mineral exploration experience.
• Strong base metals focus.
• Experience in field campaigns in remote terrains.
• Proven track record of target generation and discoveries.
• Excellent communication and report-writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, manage, and execute exploration programs for base metals (copper, nickel, zinc, lead).
• Conduct geological mapping, structural analysis, and sampling in prospective areas.
• Interpret and integrate geological, geophysical, and geochemical data to identify drill targets.
• Plan and supervise drilling programs (RC, diamond drilling); log cores and evaluate assays.
• Develop and maintain geological models using Leapfrog, Vulcan, and ArcGIS.
• Conduct preliminary economic assessments of identified prospects.
• Manage field logistics, budgets, and contractor relationships for exploration projects.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for management and stakeholders.
• Ensure exploration activities comply with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Mentor junior geologists and provide technical guidance to field teams.

Skills

Field mapping

Geological interpretation

3D modeling

Drilling supervision

Data analysis

Report writing

Team collaboration

Education

BSc (Hons) or MSc in Geology or Economic Geology

Tools

Leapfrog

Vulcan

ArcGIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and expanding force in the mining sector , is actively seeking an experienced Senior Exploration Geologist to join their dedicated team in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA . This is a field-intensive role focused on the discovery and evaluation of new base metal deposits. You will be responsible for designing and executing exploration programs, interpreting geological data, and managing field operations. The successful candidate will possess a strong understanding of structural geology, stratigraphy, and geochemical exploration techniques, with a proven ability to identify and assess prospective targets. This role requires a hands-on approach, significant fieldwork in remote locations, and the ability to collaborate effectively with geoscientists, geophysicists, and management. Your expertise will be crucial in driving the company's exploration pipeline and contributing to the discovery of significant mineral resources. We are looking for a proactive and analytical geologist who thrives in challenging environments and is passionate about the science of mineral exploration within the rich geological setting of South Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, manage, and execute exploration programs for base metals (copper, nickel, zinc, lead).
• Conduct detailed geological mapping, structural analysis, and sampling in prospective areas.
• Interpret and integrate geological, geophysical, and geochemical data to identify drill targets.
• Plan and supervise drilling programs (RC, diamond drilling), logging core, and evaluating assay results.
• Develop and maintain geological models using industry-standard software (e.g., Leapfrog, Vulcan).
• Conduct preliminary economic assessments of identified prospects.
• Manage field logistics, budgets, and contractor relationships for exploration projects.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for management and stakeholders.
• Ensure all exploration activities comply with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Mentor junior geologists and provide technical guidance to field teams.

Requirements

• BSc (Hons) or MSc in Geology or Economic Geology.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration, with a strong emphasis on base metals .
• Proven track record of successful exploration discoveries or significant target generation.
• Expertise in structural geology, stratigraphy, and exploration geochemistry.
• Proficiency with 3D geological modeling software (e.g., Leapfrog, Vulcan, ArcGIS).
• Experience with various drilling techniques and core logging.
• Excellent field skills, including mapping and data collection in challenging terrains.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication and report-writing skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team in remote locations.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively for fieldwork.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with performance-based bonuses and comprehensive benefits. This role provides the opportunity to work on exciting greenfield and brownfield exploration projects within South Africa's rich geological provinces. You will be part of a collaborative and experienced technical team, with significant opportunities for professional growth and career advancement in the mining sector . We provide robust training, access to modern exploration technologies, and a strong commitment to safety and environmental responsibility, ensuring a rewarding career experience.