Exploration Manager📣 إعلان

About the Role

Saudi Gold Refinery (SGR) is seeking an Exploration Manager to lead the identification and evaluation of gold mineral assets. Based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this full-time position drives the technical strategy for securing domestic feedstock through rigorous geological assessment and drilling programs. The Exploration Manager reports directly to the Exploration Director and plays a key role in expanding SGR’s resource base, impacting the company’s long-term supply security by delivering validated mineral resources for downstream refining operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement annual exploration plans targeting high-potential gold deposits within licensed concessions, including budget management and resource allocation.
• Supervise drilling contractors and field teams to ensure safe and efficient data collection, enforcing adherence to technical specifications and HSE protocols.
• Oversee the creation of geological models and mineral resource estimates using industry-standard software, ensuring compliance with JORC or NI 43-1 reporting codes.
• Manage regulatory compliance by maintaining all necessary exploration licenses and permits through proactive engagement with the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources (MIM) and Saudi Geological Survey (SGS).
• Implement rigorous QA/QC procedures for sampling and assay processes to guarantee data integrity, validating laboratory results through systematic analysis.
• Recruit and mentor geological staff to build a competent and safety-conscious team, conducting performance evaluations and fostering professional growth.
• Liaise with internal departments and external partners to align exploration activities with corporate goals, managing relationships with local communities and regulatory authorities.
• Conduct technical due diligence for potential acquisition targets or joint venture opportunities, providing recommendations on geological viability and risk profiles.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Geology or Earth Sciences.
• At least 15 years of exploration experience, with a minimum of 5 years in a management role.
• Proven expertise in gold exploration within arid environments.
• Proficiency in geological modeling software such as Leapfrog Geo or Datamine.
• Strong knowledge of JORC or NI 43-1 reporting standards.
• Experience in managing drilling contractors and field operations.
• Fluency in English for technical reporting and communication.
• Willingness to travel to remote sites within Saudi Arabia.

Preferred Skills and Attributes

• Advanced degree in Economic Geology or a related field.
• Familiarity with Saudi mining regulations and MIM licensing processes.
• Professional geologist certification.
• Experience in metallurgical testing and refining integration.

Role Impact and Success Metrics

• Completion of the annual drilling program within the approved budget and timeline.
• Delivery of a compliant mineral resource estimate for priority targets.
• Zero recordable safety incidents during field operations.
• Timely renewal of all exploration licenses without regulatory issues.
• Implementation of a validated QA/QC protocol for all assay data.
• Successful mentoring and development of at least two junior geologists.
• Identification of new high-potential targets for future exploration cycles.

Work Environment and Location

This full-time position is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The role requires regular travel to remote sites within Saudi Arabia for field operations and supervision.