Reverse Circulation Driller (RC Driller)

About the Role

Maandag® Middle East is seeking experienced Reverse Circulation Drillers (RC Drillers) to support mining and mineral exploration projects across Saudi Arabia. This full-time position is based in the Makkah region, specifically in Taif and Makkah. The successful candidate will be responsible for operating and maintaining reverse circulation drilling rigs, ensuring efficient drilling operations, accurate sample collection, equipment reliability, and full compliance with Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) standards.

Role Context

This opportunity is suitable for drilling professionals with 5-10 years of hands-on experience in mineral exploration, reverse circulation drilling techniques, and remote-site operations. The role requires a strong focus on operational efficiency, safety protocols, and accurate data collection in demanding field environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain reverse circulation (RC) drilling rigs safely and efficiently.
• Conduct drilling operations in accordance with project specifications, drilling plans, and geological requirements.
• Manage drilling parameters, including penetration rates, air pressure, drilling depth, and ground conditions.
• Operate and monitor air compressors, boosters, cyclones, and associated RC drilling equipment.
• Ensure accurate collection, handling, labelling, and preservation of geological samples.
• Monitor sample quality and minimize contamination during drilling operations.
• Perform rig setup, alignment, equipment inspections, and routine maintenance.
• Identify and troubleshoot drilling challenges, including equipment failures, unstable formations, and drilling interruptions.
• Maintain accurate daily drilling logs, sample records, equipment reports, and operational documentation.
• Coordinate with Operations Supervisors, geologists, and drilling support crews to achieve daily production targets.
• Ensure compliance with all company HSE policies, site safety regulations, and operational procedures.
• Maintain a safe working environment through proper use of PPE and adherence to safe drilling practices.

Qualifications and Experience

• Saudi nationality is mandatory.
• 5–7 years of hands-on drilling experience, preferably in reverse circulation drilling.
• Proven experience operating RC drilling rigs within mining, mineral exploration, or relevant drilling environments.
• Strong technical knowledge of RC drilling equipment, compressors, drilling fluids (where applicable), and downhole tools.
• Understanding of geological sampling procedures, drilling performance, and equipment maintenance.
• Ability to troubleshoot technical and operational drilling challenges.
• Basic English communication and reporting skills.
• Strong awareness of HSE standards and safe drilling practices.

Work Environment and Schedule

This role requires physical capability for working in demanding field environments and a willingness to work at remote project sites following rotational schedules. The position is full-time within the Makkah region.

Application Information

Salary for this position will be disclosed during the interview process.