Senior Geologist - Open Pit Operations

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Medical aid and pension contributions

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Geologist for a key role based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. You will lead exploration, evaluation and resource management using advanced geological tools to support sustainable mining operations and strategic decision-making.

Ideal candidate holds a Master’s or PhD in Geology with 8–10 years in exploration or mining geology, including open pit experience, and proficiency in Leapfrog, Vulcan or Surpac.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Geology or related earth science.
• 8–10 years of progressive experience in exploration or mining geology.
• Experience in open pit mining operations.
• Proficiency with Leapfrog, Vulcan or Surpac for geological modeling.
• Strong statistical and geostatistical skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; mentoring ability.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed geological mapping, sampling and data analysis to identify deposits.
• Develop and maintain 3D geological models and resource estimates.
• Plan and supervise drilling programmes for optimal data acquisition.
• Collaborate with mine planning and production to inform short- and long-term plans.
• Mentor junior geologists and lead small technical teams.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for management and stakeholders.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the mining industry , is seeking a highly experienced and dedicated Senior Geologist to join their dynamic team. This pivotal role will be based in the resource-rich region of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . The successful candidate will play a crucial part in exploring, evaluating, and managing mineral resources, contributing significantly to the company's strategic objectives and operational success. This position offers the opportunity to work with cutting-edge geological technologies and to be part of a company committed to sustainable mining practices and operational excellence. We are looking for an individual with a strong technical background, excellent analytical skills, and a proven track record in geological modeling and resource estimation within an operational environment. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, including mine planning, geotechnical engineering, and operations personnel, to ensure efficient and safe resource extraction.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed geological mapping, sampling, and data analysis to identify and delineate mineral deposits.
• Develop and maintain high-quality 3D geological models and resource estimates using industry-standard software.
• Plan and supervise drilling programs, ensuring optimal data acquisition for resource evaluation.
• Collaborate with mine planning and production teams to provide geological input for short-term and long-term mine plans.
• Perform geological risk assessments and contribute to mitigation strategies.
• Interpret geophysical and geochemical data to enhance geological understanding.
• Mentor and guide junior geologists and technical staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for management and stakeholders.
• Contribute to the geological aspects of feasibility studies and project development.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Geology or a related earth science discipline from a recognized institution.
• A minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in exploration or mining geology, with a significant portion spent in open pit mining operations .
• Demonstrated expertise in geological modeling software such as Leapfrog, Vulcan, or Surpac.
• Strong understanding of statistical methods and geostatistics for resource estimation.
• Proven ability to interpret complex geological data and translate it into actionable insights.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly and concisely.
• Experience in mentoring and leading small technical teams.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to remote mine sites as required.
• Knowledge of South African geological settings is highly advantageous.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a generous annual bonus structure and comprehensive medical aid and pension fund contributions. Employees have access to ongoing professional development opportunities, including advanced training and conference attendance. The company also provides relocation assistance for candidates moving to Richards Bay and offers a supportive work environment that prioritizes employee well-being and work-life balance. Opportunities for career advancement within a growing organization are abundant. The strategic location provides access to beautiful coastal areas and a vibrant community.