Senior Exploration Geologist - Base Metals

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Field allowances

Travel allowances

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Exploration Geologist for a Pretoria-based role focused on base metal deposits in South Africa and beyond. The position combines office work with extensive field campaigns, enabling you to lead exploration programs from concept through resource definition.

You will apply 3D geological modeling software, manage teams, interpret data, and collaborate with geophysicists and geochemists to optimize drill targets while ensuring safety and environmental practices.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Geology or Economic Geology required.
• 7+ years of mineral exploration experience with base metal discovery track record.
• Proficient in 3D geological modeling software Leapfrog Geo, Vulcan, ioGAS and ArcGIS.

Responsibilities

• Plan, design and manage grassroots and brownfields exploration programs for base metals.
• Conduct geological mapping, structural analysis and geochemical sampling.
• Supervise core logging and drilling operations (RC and diamond).
• Develop and refine geological models using Leapfrog Geo, Vulcan and ioGAS.
• Integrate geological, geochemical and geophysical data to identify drill targets.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Manage exploration budgets and timelines.
• Collaborate with geophysicists and other geoscientists on a multidisciplinary exploration approach.
• Assess prospectivity and contribute to strategic exploration planning.
• Ensure safety and environmental best practices during field activities.

Skills

Geology knowledge

Data analysis

Field exploration

Communication skills

Teamwork

Travel readiness

Education

Master's degree in Geology or Economic Geology

Tools

Leapfrog Geo

Vulcan

ioGAS

ArcGIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking exploration company, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Exploration Geologist to join their team based in Pretoria, Gauteng. This role is focused on the discovery and evaluation of new base metal deposits within South Africa and potentially abroad. You will be responsible for planning, executing, and interpreting exploration programs, including geological mapping, sampling, drilling supervision, and data analysis. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of deposit modeling, geological software, and the ability to manage projects from initial concept through to resource definition. This position offers significant opportunities for career advancement and exposure to exciting exploration frontiers. The role will involve a mix of office-based work and significant fieldwork, requiring flexibility and adaptability.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and manage grassroots and brownfields exploration programs targeting base metals (e.g., copper, nickel, zinc, lead).
• Conduct detailed geological mapping, structural analysis, and geochemical sampling campaigns.
• Supervise and interpret core logging and drilling operations (RC, diamond drilling).
• Develop and refine geological models using industry-standard software (e.g., Leapfrog, ArcGIS, Datamine).
• Integrate geological, geochemical, and geophysical data to identify and prioritize drill targets.
• Prepare high-quality exploration reports, technical memorandums, and presentations for internal review and stakeholder engagement.
• Manage exploration budgets and timelines effectively.
• Collaborate with geophysicists, geochemists, and other geoscientists to ensure a multidisciplinary approach to exploration.
• Assess exploration prospectivity and contribute to strategic planning for future exploration initiatives.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols and environmental best practices during all field activities in and around Pretoria.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Geology or Economic Geology.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in mineral exploration, with a proven track record of discovering or significantly contributing to the discovery of base metal deposits.
• Strong understanding of geological controls on base metal mineralization styles.
• Proficiency in 3D geological modeling software (e.g., Leapfrog Geo, Vulcan, ioGAS).
• Experience with GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS) for spatial data analysis.
• Excellent data analysis and interpretation skills, with a keen eye for detail.
• Field exploration experience, including extensive geological mapping and core logging.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, often in remote field locations.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively for fieldwork.
• Professional registration (e.g., Pr.Sci.Nat) is advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reflecting experience and expertise.
• Performance-related bonuses.
• Opportunity to work on high-impact exploration projects.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits.
• Generous field and travel allowances.
• Opportunities for professional development and attending industry conferences.
• A dynamic and collaborative exploration environment.
• Potential for long-term career growth within the company.
• Field accommodation and logistics provided during exploration campaigns.