Senior Geoscientist (Exploration)

Placements24; Welkom; On-site; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual leave

Training & development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Geoscientist to lead exploration in Welkom, Free State. The role involves planning and executing exploration programs, interpreting geological data, and contributing to resource modeling, with a focus on South Africa's gold, PGEs, or base metals.

You will work in a field-intensive environment, collaborate with mining engineers and geophysicists, and travel to remote sites while upholding HSE standards and delivering high-quality technical reports.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Geology or related geoscience.
• 7+ years in mineral exploration with a track record of discoveries.
• Strong knowledge of SA geology, especially gold/PGEs/base metals.
• Proficient in structural geology, petrology, mineralogy and geochemistry.
• Hands-on exploration techniques: surface mapping, logging, sampling, geochemical analysis.

Responsibilities

• Plan, design and execute geological exploration programs including field mapping and drilling.
• Interpret geological, geochemical and geophysical data to identify mineralization.
• Develop geological models and 3D interpretations of subsurface ore bodies.
• Assess targets for exploration based on technical and economic viability.
• Collaborate with resource geologists, mining engineers and geophysicists.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and proposals for projects.

Skills

Geology

Data analysis

Communication

Teamwork

Education

MSc or PhD in Geology or related geoscience

Tools

Leapfrog

ArcGIS

Micromine

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the mining and resources sector, is seeking an experienced Senior Geoscientist to enhance their exploration team in Welkom, Free State . This critical role involves identifying and evaluating potential mineral deposits through the application of advanced geological principles and exploration methodologies. The successful candidate will be responsible for planning and executing exploration programs, interpreting geological data from various sources, and contributing to resource modeling and estimation. You will play a vital role in discovering and defining new resource opportunities, ensuring the sustainable growth of the company. This position requires a deep understanding of structural geology, mineralogy, and exploration geophysics, combined with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. The work environment is dynamic, field-intensive, and offers significant opportunities for professional development within the mining industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and execute geological exploration programs, including field mapping, sampling, and drilling campaigns.
• Integrate and interpret geological, geochemical, and geophysical data to identify potential mineralization.
• Develop geological models and 3D interpretations of subsurface structures and ore bodies.
• Assess and recommend targets for further exploration based on technical and economic viability.
• Collaborate with resource geologists, mining engineers, and geophysicists to support resource definition and mine planning.
• Utilize specialized software for geological data management, interpretation, and modeling (e.g., Leapfrog, ArcGIS, Micromine).
• Conduct geological risk assessments and provide technical recommendations to management.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and proposals for exploration projects.
• Stay abreast of the latest exploration techniques, technologies, and industry best practices.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards in all exploration activities.

Requirements

• MSc or Ph.D. in Geology, Economic Geology, Geophysics, or a related geoscience discipline.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mineral exploration, with a proven track record of successful discoveries.
• Strong expertise in the geology of South Africa, particularly in gold, platinum group elements, or base metals relevant to the Welkom region.
• Proficiency in structural geology, petrology, mineralogy, and geochemistry.
• Hands-on experience with various exploration techniques, including surface mapping, core logging, soil and rock chip sampling, and geochemical analysis.
• Working knowledge of exploration geophysics methods (e.g., magnetics, gravity, electromagnetics) and their interpretation.
• Advanced skills in geological modeling software and data analysis tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team and communicate findings clearly.
• Willingness to travel and work in remote exploration sites as required.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package, competitive with industry standards, plus performance-related bonuses.
• A comprehensive medical aid scheme, retirement fund contributions, and life insurance are provided.
• Generous annual leave and opportunities for continuous professional development, including training courses and conferences, are available.
• Employees benefit from a dynamic work environment with significant project responsibilities and the potential for career advancement within a reputable mining company.
• This role offers the chance to contribute to significant discoveries in the heart of the Free State 's mineral belt.