Senior Subsurface Geologist

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Annual leave

Development allowances

Hybrid work

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Subsurface Geologist for our client in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. The role focuses on integrating geological, geophysical, and engineering data to build robust static models and assess reservoir potential in an oil and gas context.

The successful candidate will lead 3D modeling efforts, collaborate with engineers and geophysicists, and support exploration, appraisal, and field development with strong analytical and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Geology or related Earth Science.
• Minimum of 8 years of subsurface geology experience in oil and gas.
• Proficiency in 3D geological modeling software (Petrel, RMS, Landmark).
• Strong seismic interpretation, well log analysis, and core description skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and interpret detailed 3D geological models of subsurface reservoirs.
• Integrate seismic, well log, core, and production data to create accurate static models.
• Evaluate and quantify hydrocarbon volumes and uncertainties.
• Collaborate with reservoir engineers, geophysicists, and petrophysicists for integrated interpretations.
• Contribute geological expertise to exploration, appraisal, and field development planning.
• Prepare geological reports, presentations, and technical summaries for management and partners.
• Provide geological support for drilling operations, including well planning and real-time monitoring.
• Mentor junior geologists and share technical knowledge within the subsurface team.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies and best practices in subsurface geology and modeling.
• Participate in peer reviews and technical committee meetings.

Skills

Seismic interpretation

Well log analysis

Core description

Team collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Geology

Tools

Petrel

RMS

Landmark

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic independent oil and gas company with diverse exploration and production assets, is seeking a Senior Subsurface Geologist to join their team in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. This pivotal role involves detailed subsurface interpretation and modeling to support exploration, appraisal, and development activities. The Senior Geologist will be responsible for integrating geological, geophysical, and engineering data to build robust static models, assess reservoir potential, and contribute to strategic decision‑making. This position offers a significant opportunity to contribute to the company's success within South African energy sector, working on challenging projects that require strong analytical and interpretative skills. We foster a collaborative environment in our Nelspruit office where technical excellence is valued and rewarded.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and interpret detailed 3D geological models of subsurface reservoirs.
• Integrate seismic, well log, core, and production data to create accurate static models.
• Evaluate and quantify hydrocarbon volumes and uncertainties.
• Collaborate with reservoir engineers, geophysicists, and petrophysicists to ensure integrated subsurface interpretations.
• Contribute geological expertise to exploration, appraisal, and field development planning.
• Prepare geological reports, presentations, and technical summaries for management and partners.
• Provide geological support for drilling operations, including well planning and real-time monitoring.
• Mentor junior geologists and share technical knowledge within the subsurface team.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies and best practices in subsurface geology and modeling.
• Participate in peer reviews and technical committee meetings.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Geology or a related Earth Science field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in subsurface geology, specifically within the oil and gas industry.
• Proficiency in 3D geological modeling software (e.g., Petrel, RMS, Landmark).
• Strong skills in seismic interpretation, well log analysis, and core description.
• Solid understanding of stratigraphy, sedimentology, structural geology, and reservoir characterization techniques.
• Experience with uncertainty analysis and volumetric calculations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Familiarity with South African basins and geological settings is an advantage.
• Adaptable to a hybrid work model, with willingness for occasional travel.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package and performance incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits.
• Generous annual leave and professional development allowances.
• Opportunities to work on diverse subsurface challenges.
• Hybrid work arrangement for better work-life balance.
• Supportive and technically driven team environment.
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates to Nelspruit.