Senior Geochemist

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plans

Remote-first / flexible work

Professional development opportunities

Conference attendance

Opportunity to publish research

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Geochemist for a remote-first role to lead analysis of source rocks, oils and gases, translating geochemical data into exploration and production insights.

You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams worldwide, apply GC-MS, ICP-MS and isotope techniques, and mentor junior scientists while presenting findings to stakeholders. A Ph.D. or Master’s with substantial petroleum geochemistry experience is required.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s in Geochemistry, Organic Chemistry, Geology, or related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in petroleum geochemistry within the oil and gas industry.
• Experience with GC‑MS, ICP‑MS, GC, and isotope ratio MS required.
• Strong knowledge of organic matter characterization and thermal maturity interpretation.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and interpret geochemical data from source rocks, oils, and natural gases.
• Perform biomarker, isotope, and compound‑specific analyses to determine origin and maturity of hydrocarbons.
• Conduct oil‑oil and oil‑source rock correlation studies to understand migration pathways.
• Evaluate reservoir fluid properties and identify potential biodegradation or water‑washing effects.
• Develop and apply geochemical models to predict hydrocarbon generation and expulsion.
• Collaborate with geologists to translate findings into regional assessments.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for stakeholders.
• Mentor junior geochemists and oversee lab procedures and data interpretation.
• Ensure quality and accuracy of geochemical analyses and interpretations.

Skills

GC-MS

ICP-MS

Gas chromatography

Isotope ratio mass spectrometry

Biomarker interpretation

Organic matter characterization

Thermal maturity assessment

Data interpretation

Strong communication

Remote collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Geochemistry

Master's degree in Geochemistry

Geology degree

Tools

Geochemical software

Geochemical databases

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking energy company, is actively seeking a highly skilled Senior Geochemist to join their remote-first team. This pivotal role is dedicated to the advanced analysis of geological and petroleum samples to understand source rock potential, oil-gas correlations, biodegradation, and reservoir quality. You will be instrumental in providing critical geochemical insights that inform exploration strategies, prospect evaluation, and production optimization. The Senior Geochemist will leverage state-of-the‑art analytical techniques and interpretation methodologies to unravel the complex origins and evolution of hydrocarbons. As a remote position, you will collaborate virtually with geologists, geophysicists, and reservoir engineers, contributing expertise to multidisciplinary teams working on diverse projects globally. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of organic geochemistry, isotope geochemistry, and analytical instrumentation. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact on exploration success and asset development within a dynamic and innovative organization. Your expertise will guide critical decisions regarding hydrocarbon generation, migration, and accumulation, directly influencing the company's strategic direction. This role requires a proactive, research-oriented mindset and the ability to translate complex chemical data into clear, actionable recommendations.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and interpret geochemical data from source rocks, oils, and natural gases.
• Perform biomarker, isotope, and compound‑specific analyses to determine origin and maturity of hydrocarbons.
• Conduct oil‑oil and oil‑source rock correlation studies to understand migration pathways and kitchen areas.
• Evaluate reservoir fluid properties and identify potential biodegradation or water‑washing effects.
• Develop and apply geochemical models to predict hydrocarbon generation and expulsion.
• Collaborate with geologists to integrate geochemical findings into regional and prospect‑level assessments.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in geochemical techniques and analytical technologies.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Mentor junior geochemists and provide technical guidance on laboratory procedures and data interpretation.
• Ensure the quality and accuracy of all geochemical analyses and interpretations.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Geochemistry, Organic Chemistry, Geology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in petroleum geochemistry within the oil and gas industry.
• Extensive experience with analytical techniques such as GC‑MS, ICP‑MS, gas chromatography, and isotope ratio mass spectrometry.
• Strong knowledge of organic matter characterization, thermal maturity assessment, and biomarker interpretation.
• Proven ability to integrate geochemical data with other subsurface disciplines.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex data clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote team environment.
• Proficiency in relevant geochemical software and databases.
• Experience with unconventional reservoir geochemistry is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, performance‑based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as retirement savings plans.
• We are committed to your professional development, providing access to advanced training, industry conferences, and opportunities to publish research.
• As a remote‑first company, we prioritize work‑life balance and offer the flexibility to work from anywhere.
• Join a team of leading scientists and engineers dedicated to pushing the boundaries of geoscience in the energy sector. You will have the tools and support to excel in your role and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.