Principal Geophysicist

DISCOVER A BRIGHTER FUTURE 
 
At South32, we’re meeting the challenge of enabling a sustainable future through our focus on responsibly producing commodities critical for a low-carbon world.
As a collaborative, caring and inclusive company, there’s no better place to make a genuine difference. Together we’re making a positive, global impact that has the potential to change lives.
Whatever career path you choose, we’ll support you every step of the way to learn, grow and succeed. So join us, step towards a brighter future and leave your legacy.
 
ABOUT PERTH OFFICE
 
South32’s corporate office is based in the heart of Perth’s CBD. The corporate office houses key functions including HR, Finance, Corporate Development, Investor Relations, Group Risk and Technical. Our office is conveniently located a 5-minute walk from the Perth Underground Train Station. 
 
WHAT SOUTH32 OFFERS
 
•    26 weeks full-paid, or 52 weeks half-paid parental leave for primary carers 
•    Annual short-term incentive bonus that recognizes both your individual performance and the overall success of the business
•    The opportunity to become a shareholder of South32 through our share plans
•    Flexible work options include working from home, flexible hours & job sharing
 
ABOUT THE ROLE 
 
This permanent position will be held in our Perth offices. We understand and value the benefits of flexibility and operate a hybrid work model (in the office and from home).
We still encourage your application if full-time hours don't align with your preferences. We're open to exploring flexible arrangements with qualified candidates.

As Principal Geophysicist, you will provide expert geophysical guidance across global exploration projects. You'll shape geophysical standards and capabilities while evaluating emerging technologies to enhance mineral discovery, particularly in undercover exploration and orebody characterisation. The role spans Greenfields and Brownfields activities, contributing directly to South32's exploration success.

Reporting to the Manager of Geoscience Research & Technology, other key responsibilities include, but aren’t limited to: 

•    Oversee geophysical excellence across exploration projects, providing expert guidance in survey design, data interpretation and discovery opportunities while fostering collaborative partnerships with internal teams and external stakeholders.
•    Drive innovation through technology assessment and implementation, working closely with Innovate32 to enhance orebody detection capabilities and maintain South32's competitive edge in exploration techniques.
•    Establish and maintain best-practice standards across the exploration portfolio, ensuring all geophysical programs meet HSEC compliance while managing key relationships with contractors, communities and government bodies.
•    Champion professional development and technical capability within the geophysics discipline while managing central geophysical datasets and providing field-based verification of opportunities across global project locations.

ABOUT YOU 
You will have experience and demonstrate capability in the following: 
 
•    Extensive multi-commodity exploration expertise, with depth in base metals systems, including porphyry, skarn, SEDEX and VMS deposits, to shape discovery strategies across diverse geological settings.
•    Passion for innovative exploration through your experience with deep undercover technologies, research initiatives, and successful deployment of new solutions that enhance discovery outcomes.
•    Advanced expertise in 2D/3D geophysical modelling and interpretation, backed by a comprehensive knowledge of mineralisation systems and exploration value drivers.
•    Strong cross-cultural leadership skills with a proven ability to guide global teams while working independently across international operations.
•    Exceptional track record in field safety and risk management, complemented by experience in research coordination and industry collaboration.
•    Strong ability to communicate complex technical information clearly to varied audiences, backed by 12+ years of hands-on exploration and/or consulting experience.

Qualifications for this position are: 
 
•    Bachelor’s (Hons) degree in Geophysics or equivalent, preferred to MSc or PhD level.
 
South32 is committed to building and maintaining an inclusive and diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we operate.  We provide a recruitment process that is fair, equitable, and accessible to all, and we encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
 
This job advert will close on 28th November 2024