Team Leader Geologist

Team Leader Geologist - Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

About Saudi Gold Refinery

Saudi Gold Refinery (SGR) is a Saudi mining and precious-metals company specialized in the refining of gold and precious metals, bullion production, and value-added precious-metal services. Operating within the Kingdom's mining value chain, SGR is aligned to the Vision 2030 mining pillar and to the regulatory framework set by the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources (MIM) and applicable Saudi and international standards. We produce responsibly sourced, traceable, and certified bullion, operate to LBMA Good Delivery and ISO-aligned quality standards, and invest in the people, processes, and controls behind every bar we produce.

Role Overview

Saudi Gold Refinery (SGR) is seeking a Team Leader Geologist in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to lead the technical evaluation of mineral assets and exploration data. This role supports the company's strategic mandate to secure reliable upstream supply chains for gold refining operations. The position ensures that all geological assessments comply with Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources (MIM) regulations and industry best practices. It serves as a critical link between exploration activities and the refinery's sourcing strategy.

The Team Leader Geologist will play a key role in validating the geological integrity of potential feedstock sources. This position drives the technical due diligence process to mitigate supply risks and ensure responsible sourcing standards are met.

Key Responsibilities

The following responsibilities outline the core duties and expectations for this role.

Exploration Program Management

The role develops and oversees exploration work programs that align with SGR's strategic objectives and regulatory license conditions. It ensures that all field activities are executed safely and in compliance with environmental permits.

Geological Due Diligence

This position conducts rigorous technical assessments of mining assets to verify resource quality and quantity for refining feedstock. It validates geological data from third-party suppliers to support responsible sourcing and KYC processes.

Regulatory Compliance

The role ensures all exploration activities and reporting meet the requirements of the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources and the Saudi Geological Survey. It prepares and submits technical documents to regulatory bodies as mandated.

Team Supervision

The position supervises junior geologists and field technicians to ensure high standards of data collection and operational efficiency. It implements training programs to enhance technical competency and field safety awareness.

Data Interpretation

This role oversees the compilation and interpretation of geological data using industry-standard software and GIS tools. It reviews resource estimates to ensure they meet international reporting codes such as JORC or NI 43-101.

Stakeholder Liaison

The role liaises with external consultants and laboratories to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of assay results. It collaborates with internal departments to align geological findings with operational and commercial goals.

Risk Assessment

This position identifies geological risks in potential supply chains and proposes mitigation strategies to senior management. It evaluates the technical viability of new mining licenses and exploration targets.

Reporting and Documentation

The role prepares comprehensive technical reports for internal decision-making and external regulatory submission. It maintains a secure and organized geological database to support long-term asset evaluation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Geology, Earth Sciences, or a related field from an accredited university.
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in mineral exploration, resource estimation, or mining geology.
• Proven track record in managing exploration teams and field operations in the Middle East.
• In-depth knowledge of Saudi mining regulations and MIM licensing procedures.
• Proficiency in geological modeling software and GIS applications such as ArcGIS or Surpac.
• Experience in conducting due diligence on mineral assets and evaluating resource data.
• Strong ability to prepare technical reports for regulatory bodies and investors.
• Fluency in English is required, with Arabic proficiency preferred for local stakeholder engagement.

Preferred / Nice-to-have

• Master's degree or PhD in Economic Geology or Mineral Exploration.
• Professional certification such as Certified Professional Geologist (CPG).
• Specific experience with gold and silver deposit exploration.
• Familiarity with LBMA Responsible Gold Guidance and supply chain due diligence.

Success Metrics

• Completion of technical assessments for at least three potential mining assets within the first year.
• 100% compliance with MIM and SGS reporting requirements for all exploration activities.
• Establishment of a standardized geological due diligence framework for supply chain evaluation.
• Implementation of a robust data management protocol for geological information.
• Development of a competent geology team with defined competency matrices.
• Delivery of accurate resource estimates that inform strategic sourcing decisions.
• Successful mitigation of identified geological risks in potential supply chains.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Saudi Gold Refinery welcomes applications from all qualified candidates. Hiring decisions are made based on role requirements, skills, experience, and alignment with Saudization and Vision 2030 priorities.