Senior Geologist

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SQM International Lithium (SQMi) is the international lithium division of SQM, focused on responsibly developing and operating lithium assets around the world. Headquartered in Perth, Western Australia, SQMi partners across the lithium value chain to support the global energy transition, combining technical expertise in lithium processing with a strong commitment to safety, innovation, sustainability and long-term value creation. Through collaboration with industry partners, governments and communities, SQMi aims to deliver reliable, high-quality lithium products while contributing to a more sustainable future.

The Role

Bring your lithium experience to a dynamic WA team where you’ll lead meaningful projects, influence strategy and mentor the next wave of talented geologists.

Reporting to the Exploration Manager – Australia, the Senior Geologist is responsible for planning and delivering field exploration programmes, overseeing data collection and analysis, and producing high-quality geological interpretations and models. The role applies mineral systems thinking and strong technical expertise to identify and advance lithium exploration targets across Australia, from target generation through to execution and reporting of exploration activities.

Based primarily in the Perth Head Office as part of the Australian Exploration Team, the role includes significant field involvement, with up to 4–6 months per year spent on site. Field work will generally follow structured rosters (such as 4:3, 8:6 or 12:9), with flexibility for campaign-based programs to meet operational requirements, and includes mentoring and supporting geologists and field staff.

Qualifications & experience

Tertiary qualification in Geology with a minimum of 7+ years’ relevant technical experience (lithium experience highly desirable).

Proven application of mineral systems thinking to generate and advance exploration targets.

Demonstrated experience designing, executing, and interpreting exploration programs, including geochemical and geophysical datasets.

Demonstrated leadership capability with the ability to mentor staff, work collaboratively in team environments, and supervise contractors effectively.

Proficiency in geological modelling and GIS software, with advanced skills in QGIS, Leapfrog, and IoGAS highly regarded.

Completed Schedule 26 – Statutory Supervisor accreditation under the WHS (Mines) Regulations 2022.

Tasks & responsibilities

Promote and adhere to SQM values of Excellence, Safety, Integrity, and Sustainability.

Take personal accountability for safe execution of work, including the use of SQM safety systems, hazard identification, inspections, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Apply and maintain SQM internal methodologies, policies, procedures, and standards, ensuring consistently high-quality technical outputs.

Generate and evaluate lithium exploration targets using integrated geological, geophysical, geochemical, and other data sources.

Plan, justify, and manage exploration programs and budgets across early-stage through to advanced resource definition activities.

Lead and supervise field exploration activities, including mentoring geologists and field staff and managing contractors to achieve safe and technically successful outcomes.

Ensure land access, approvals, logistics, and stakeholder communications are in place prior to and during exploration activities.

Conduct all operations in compliance with environmental, cultural heritage, regulatory, and community requirements.

Manage exploration expenditure within delegated authority and monitor program costs against budget.

Support regulatory compliance and reporting, including expenditure reporting and statutory obligations (e.g. Schedule 26 Statutory Supervisor where required).

Communicate exploration results and recommendations clearly to management through reports, presentations, and meetings

Competitive market salary.

Employee Assistance Program.

Private Health Insurance and Life Insurance provided by the Company.

Opportunity to work with International teams.

Cohesive and supportive team culture.

This is an outstanding opportunity to contribute to a growing lithium company whilst working within a focused and committed team. To take this opportunity, submit your resume and cover letter demonstrating your experience and relation to the above criteria.

Recruitment Process Our recruitment process considers your skills and experience and how they align with the requirements of the role. We also require checks to demonstrate your suitability for the role. Shortlisting for this role will commence immediately.

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Your application will include the following questions:

How many years' experience do you have as a Geologist?

Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia?

Which of the following drilling methods are you experienced with?

Do you have a current Australian driver's licence?

What's your expected annual base salary?

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