Senior Geologist - Exploration (Mining)

Placements24; Stellenbosch Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package with site/2

Relocation assistance

Professional development support

Medical aid and provident fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Geologist for an on-site role near Paarl, Western Cape. You will lead geological exploration programs, supervise field teams, and develop 3D models to guide resource estimates while coordinating with cross-disciplinary specialists.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in hard-rock mineral exploration, strong modeling and reporting skills, and willingness to travel to remote sites. Relocation support may be considered.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years progressive mineral exploration geology experience in hard-rock settings.
• Strong interpretive, data analysis and technical writing skills.
• Experience leading field exploration programs and supervising teams.
• Proven ability to develop geological models and resource estimates.
• Full driving license and willingness to travel to remote sites.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute and manage geological exploration programs including surface mapping and sampling.
• Oversee core logging for exploration and resource definition drilling.
• Develop and maintain 3D geological models using Leapfrog, ArcGIS or Micromine.
• Perform resource estimation and classification under relevant standards.
• Interpret data to identify delineated mineral deposits and potential resources.
• Collaborate with geochemists, geophysicists and mining engineers to integrate data.
• Prepare detailed geological reports and presentations for management.
• Manage exploration budgets and ensure efficient use of resources.
• Ensure health, safety and environmental regulations during field ops.
• Mentor junior geologists and field assistants to promote technical excellence.

Skills

Geology expertise

Data analysis

Technical writing

Team supervision

Remote field work

Education

BSc (Hons) or MSc in Geology

Tools

Leapfrog

ArcGIS

Micromine

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic junior mining company with significant exploration activities, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Geologist to join their team near Paarl , Western Cape . This crucial on-site role involves leading geological exploration programs, identifying and evaluating mineral resources, and contributing to the company's strategic growth. The successful candidate will possess a deep understanding of mineral deposit types prevalent in Southern Africa, advanced geological modeling techniques, and practical field experience. You will be responsible for overseeing exploration drilling campaigns, core logging, data analysis, and resource estimation. This position demands a hands‑on approach and the ability to work effectively in remote field conditions as well as in the established office environment in Paarl . Expertise in precious metals or base metals exploration is highly desirable.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and manage geological exploration programs, including surface mapping, sampling, and geophysical surveys.
• Oversee and conduct geological core logging for exploration and resource definition drilling programs.
• Develop and maintain 3D geological models using industry-standard software (e.g., Leapfrog, ArcGIS, Micromine).
• Perform resource estimation and classification according to relevant industry standards (e.g., JORC, SAMREC).
• Interpret geological data to identify and delineate potential mineral deposits.
• Collaborate with geochemists, geophysicists, and mining engineers to integrate multidisciplinary data.
• Prepare detailed geological reports, technical memorandums, and presentations for management and stakeholders.
• Manage exploration budgets and ensure efficient utilization of resources.
• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations during field operations.
• Mentor junior geologists and field assistants, fostering a culture of technical excellence.

Requirements

• BSc (Hons) or MSc in Geology or a related Earth Science discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration geology, with a strong focus on hard-rock environments.
• Proven experience with geological modeling and resource estimation software.
• In-depth knowledge of mineral systems and deposit types relevant to Southern Africa (e.g., gold, platinum group elements, base metals).
• Strong understanding of structural geology, sedimentology, and igneous petrology.
• Experience in managing field exploration programs and supervising technical teams.
• Excellent data analysis, interpretation, and technical writing skills.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively to remote exploration sites.
• Must be willing to work full-time on-site in the Paarl area and surrounding exploration fields.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including site allowances, comprehensive medical aid, and a provident fund.
• The company provides ample opportunities for professional development, including support for further studies, attendance at industry conferences, and exposure to diverse geological challenges.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for suitable candidates.
• Join a growing team dedicated to discovering valuable mineral resources.