Upstream Exploration Geologist

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Performance incentives

Fully remote work

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Upstream Exploration Geologist to join a remote-first team and identify hydrocarbon prospects in new and existing basins.

You will integrate seismic data, well logs, and core data to build comprehensive models, de-risk opportunities, and inform exploration strategies. This senior role requires strong communication skills and a track record in remote collaboration.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Geology, Geophysics, or related Earth Science discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in upstream oil and gas exploration geology.
• Proven expertise in basin analysis, structural geology, and play-based exploration.
• Proficiency in geological software (Petrel, Kingdom, ArcGIS) for interpretation and modeling.
• Strong understanding of seismic interpretation, well log analysis, and sequence stratigraphy.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and remotely in a global team.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and interpret geological, geophysical, and geochemical data to identify hydrocarbon plays and prospects.
• Conduct basin analysis, structural geology studies, and sequence stratigraphy interpretations.
• Integrate subsurface data (seismic, well logs, core data, outcrop data) to build geological models.
• Perform volumetric analysis and assess exploration risks and uncertainties.
• Collaborate with geophysicists and engineers to define exploration targets and strategies.
• Prepare technical reports and recommendations for portfolio reviews.

Skills

Basin analysis

Structural geology

Seismic interpretation

Well log analysis

Sequence stratigraphy

Analytical thinking

Effective communication

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Geology/Geophysics/Earth Science

Tools

Petrel

Kingdom

ArcGIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized exploration and production company, is seeking an accomplished Upstream Exploration Geologist to join their remote-first, dynamic team. This role is central to identifying and evaluating potential hydrocarbon prospects in new and existing basins. The successful candidate will leverage advanced geological, geophysical, and geochemical data to assess resource potential, define exploration strategies, and de-risk opportunities. This is a unique opportunity to work with a highly collaborative and geographically diverse team, utilizing cutting-edge technologies in a fully remote setting. We are committed to fostering innovation and providing an environment where geological expertise directly influences strategic exploration decisions. The position demands strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of basin analysis, and the ability to communicate complex geological concepts effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences, all within a remote-first framework.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and interpret geological, geophysical, and geochemical data to identify and evaluate potential hydrocarbon plays and prospects.
• Conduct detailed basin analysis, structural geology studies, and sequence stratigraphy interpretations.
• Integrate subsurface data (seismic, well logs, core data, outcrop data) to build integrated geological models.
• Perform volumetric analysis and assess exploration risks and uncertainties.
• Collaborate with geophysicists, reservoir engineers, and exploration managers to define exploration targets and strategies.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for exploration portfolio reviews.
• Utilize industry-standard geological software for mapping, modeling, and interpretation.
• Stay abreast of the latest geological concepts, technologies, and exploration trends.
• Contribute to the development of exploration strategies and play fairway mapping.
• Mentor junior geologists and contribute to knowledge sharing within the geoscience team.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Geology, Geophysics, or a related Earth Science discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in upstream oil and gas exploration geology.
• Proven expertise in basin analysis, structural geology, and play-based exploration.
• Proficiency in geological software (e.g., Petrel, Kingdom, ArcGIS) for interpretation and modeling.
• Strong understanding of seismic interpretation, well log analysis, and sequence stratigraphy.
• Excellent analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex geological concepts clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote team environment.
• Experience with prospect generation and risking is essential.
• This is a fully remote position, open to candidates globally, but with a strong preference for individuals based in or familiar with the **Upington, Northern Cape, ZA** operational context or with a proven track record of successful remote work.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including health, retirement, and performance incentives, and significant opportunities for professional development and growth.
• Enjoy the ultimate flexibility of a fully remote work environment, allowing for a superior work-life balance.
• Be part of an innovative and forward-thinking company shaping the future of energy exploration.