Job Description
Lead Exploration Geologist / Manager (Mining)
- FIFO / Field-Based | High-Impact Leadership Role
- North QLD | DIDO / FIFO Available
- Copper/Gold exploration
An outstanding opportunity is available for an experienced Senior Geologist/Exploration Manager to step into a high-impact, field-led role and take ownership of a 10,000m drilling programme within a highly prospective North QLD copper/gold exploration region. This is a rare chance to work directly with Executive leadership, lead programme execution from day one, and help shape the next phase of exploration strategy on a project with genuine upside. This role will suit a proven exploration leader who enjoys being close to the action, making decisions in the field, and taking real ownership of outcomes.
The Opportunity
This is not a desk-bound technical role. It is a hands-on site-based leadership position for someone who can run an exploration programme safely, efficiently and to a high technical standard. You will lead on-ground execution of the drilling programme, manage contractors and field teams, oversee geological workflows and data quality, and help refine targets in real time as results come in.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and deliver a ~10,000m drilling programme
- Manage drill contractors, field teams and technical consultants
- Oversee logging, sampling, QA/QC and geological data integrity
- Interpret results and refine drill targets during programme execution
- Build and maintain 3D geological models and GIS datasets
- Manage land access and liaise with landholders and Traditional Owners
- Prepare daily, weekly and monthly reporting, including input into market announcements
- Monitor programme budgets, contractor performance and field productivity
- Report to the Executive team
About You
You are a capable and credible field operator who can step in and run a programme without needing close supervision.
You will likely bring:
- 10–20+ years’ experience in exploration geology
- A strong track record in managing drilling programmes in the field
- Experience working with landholders, heritage groups and on-ground stakeholders
- The ability to make sound decisions under pressure and lead confidently
- Success in Greenfields or brownfields discovery environments, as well as a high level of competence in structural geology, target generation, and data interpretation?
- Experience working with landholders, indigenous / heritage groups, and have a practical, respectful, and outcome-focused approach
- Advanced capability in GIS platforms,3D modelling software (Leapfrog preferred), Strong data management and QA/QC discipline?
- A proven ability to run field programmes independently, strong contractor management capability, and experience working in remote terrains?
- Strong experience in drill programme design and execution?
Just as importantly, you are practical, commercially aware, and motivated by the opportunity to make a genuine impact on project outcomes.
Location & Roster
- Field-based role in North Queensland
- FIFO or DIDO available
- Roster to be agreed around the active drilling programme
Remuneration
- A$190,000 – A$230,000 + Super (Package negotiable depending on experience)
- Performance bonus structure aligned with programme delivery
- Genuine opportunity to grow into a broader Exploration Manager role over time
Why This Role
- Lead a high-impact drilling programme with real discovery potential
- Work directly with key decision-makers
- Take ownership of programme delivery, not just contribute to it
- Join a lean, agile team where your input will genuinely matter
- Be part of an exciting growth phase with strong upside
Apply
If you are the kind of exploration professional who can step in, take control and deliver from day one, we want to hear from you.
For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Ryan Oxlade at Empower Management via ryan@empowermanagement.com.au