Exploration Manager📣 Job Ad

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.