Senior Subsurface Geoscientist (Remote)

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings with employer match

Paid time off

Remote work flexibility

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Subsurface Geoscientist for our energy client with a remote-first setup. The role focuses on integrating seismic, geological, geophysical, and petrophysical data to build robust subsurface models across diverse basins.

You will mentor junior geoscientists, lead critical workflows, and guide drilling and development decisions. The ideal candidate brings 10+ years of energy industry experience and strong communication in a fully remote environment.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Geology, Geophysics, or a related geoscience discipline.
• 10+ years of subsurface exploration and appraisal experience in the energy industry.
• Extensive seismic interpretation experience (structural & stratigraphic) using Petrel/Kingdom/OpendTect.
• Strong knowledge of sedimentology, stratigraphy, and basin modeling.
• Proficient in well log analysis and petrophysical interpretation.
• Ability to integrate diverse subsurface datasets into coherent models.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Proven remote-work leadership and collaboration abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead interpretation of 2D/3D seismic data to identify reservoirs and structures.
• Conduct basin analysis, sedimentology studies, and sequence stratigraphy.
• Integrate geological, geophysical, and petrophysical data into subsurface models.
• Interpret well logs to define lithology and reservoir properties.
• Assess exploration risk and provide probabilistic estimates for prospects.
• Collaborate with reservoir engineers and geologists on integrated studies.
• Prepare technical reports, prospect evaluations, and management presentations.
• Provide geological guidance for drilling plans and real-time support.
• Mentor junior geoscientists and drive remote workflows.
• Stay updated with advances in geoscience technologies.

Skills

Seismic interpretation

Data integration

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Leadership/mentoring

Education

Master's degree in Geology or Geophysics

Tools

Petrel

Kingdom

OpendTect

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering energy exploration company, is seeking a Senior Subsurface Geoscientist to join their globally distributed, fully remote team. This role is crucial for the exploration and appraisal of hydrocarbon resources, requiring expertise in integrating geological, geophysical, and petrophysical data to build robust subsurface models. You will play a key role in identifying and evaluating prospective areas, de-risking exploration ventures, and providing critical geological insights to guide drilling and development decisions. The ideal candidate will possess a comprehensive understanding of seismic interpretation, sequence stratigraphy, sedimentology, and basin analysis. As a senior member of the team, you will mentor junior geoscientists, lead technical workflows, and contribute to strategic subsurface initiatives. This remote-first position demands strong analytical skills, excellent communication, and the ability to thrive in an independent, collaborative virtual environment. You will have the opportunity to work on exciting projects in diverse geological settings, contributing directly to the company's exploration success and growth. We are dedicated to building a high-performing, diverse, and inclusive remote workforce.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the interpretation of 2D and 3D seismic data to identify geological structures, stratigraphic traps, and potential hydrocarbon reservoirs.
• Conduct detailed basin analysis, sedimentological studies, and sequence stratigraphic frameworks.
• Integrate geological, geophysical, and petrophysical data to build and refine subsurface models.
• Evaluate and interpret well log data to define lithology, reservoir properties, and fluid content.
• Assess exploration risk and uncertainty, developing probabilistic estimates for prospects.
• Collaborate closely with reservoir engineers and geologists to develop integrated subsurface interpretations.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, prospect evaluations, and presentations for management and stakeholders.
• Provide geological guidance for drilling operations, including well planning and real-time geological support.
• Mentor and guide junior geoscientists, fostering their technical development and team collaboration.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in geoscience technologies and methodologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Geology, Geophysics, or a related geoscience discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in subsurface exploration and appraisal within the energy industry.
• Extensive experience in seismic interpretation, including structural and stratigraphic analysis, using industry-standard software (e.g., Petrel, Kingdom, OpendTect).
• Strong knowledge of sedimentology, stratigraphy, and basin modeling.
• Proficiency in well log analysis and petrophysical interpretation.
• Proven ability to integrate diverse subsurface datasets and build coherent geological models.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and lead technical workflows in a fully remote setting.
• Experience in risk assessment and probabilistic analysis is highly desirable.
• A proactive approach to learning and professional development.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive compensation package, including an attractive base salary and performance-related bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, substantial retirement savings plans with employer matching, and generous paid time off are standard.
• This fully remote position provides significant flexibility and work-life balance, allowing you to work from your preferred location.
• Continuous professional development is encouraged through training programs, industry conferences, and access to cutting-edge research.
• Join a globally recognized company at the forefront of energy exploration, contributing to impactful projects and shaping the future of the industry.
• This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned geoscientist looking to make a significant impact from **Polokwane** or any remote location.