Driller

Sgr Sa; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Saudi Gold Refinery (SGR) seeks a Driller in Riyadh to operate rotary and core drilling rigs, collect geological samples, and ensure data integrity. You will perform rig inspections, follow HSE standards, and collaborate with geologists to maintain project timelines.

The role requires a minimum of three years’ field experience, English/Arabic communication, and a Saudi driving license. Apply to contribute to SGR's exploration objectives and compliance with MIM and Vision 2030.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent technical certification in drilling or mechanical operations.
• Minimum of three years of experience operating surface drilling rigs in mining/exploration.
• Saudi driving license for heavy machinery operation in remote locations.
• Ability to read and interpret drilling plans and geological diagrams.
• Knowledge of HSE regulations and safe work practices in industrial settings.
• Able to communicate in English and Arabic for coordination.
• Experience with routine mechanical troubleshooting and basic repairs.

Responsibilities

• Operate rotary and core drilling rigs to target depths and sample recovery as per geological plan.
• Monitor torque, pressure, and rotation speed to optimize performance and prevent equipment failure.
• Conduct pre-/post-shift inspections of rigs, pumps, and equipment; perform preventive maintenance.
• Follow toolbox talks and risk assessments; implement LOTO during equipment maintenance.
• Collect and label core and chip samples; ensure chain of custody for assay lab transfer.
• Record daily drilling data (depth, lithology, incidents) and report to Drilling Supervisor.
• Manage drilling fluids and waste per environmental regulations and site plans.
• Assist in setup/breakdown of rigs at new exploration sites; manage tools/spares during mobilization.
• Coordinate with geologists and maintenance staff to adapt drilling parameters.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent technical certification in drilling or mechanical operations

Tools

Drilling control systems

LOTO procedures

Job description

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 Driller in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to execute exploration drilling operations that support our mineral resource verification processes. This role involves operating drilling rigs safely and efficiently to collect high-quality geological samples for assay analysis. The Driller will contribute to the downstream mining value chain by ensuring accurate data collection for feedstock assessment.

The Driller will report directly to the Drilling Supervisor and will play a key role in maintaining operational continuity and equipment integrity. This position requires strict adherence to HSE standards and precise execution of drilling plans to support SGR's strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities

The Driller will be responsible for the following key areas of operation and compliance.

The role operates rotary and core drilling rigs to achieve target depths and sample recovery rates as defined by the geological plan. The Driller monitors torque, pressure, and rotation speed to optimize performance and prevent equipment failure.

Equipment Maintenance

This position conducts pre-shift and post-shift inspections of drilling rigs, pumps, and auxiliary equipment to ensure readiness. The Driller performs preventive maintenance tasks including lubrication, filter changes, and component replacements.

Safety Compliance

The role participates in daily toolbox talks and risk assessments before commencing drilling activities. The Driller implements lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures during equipment maintenance to ensure personnel safety.

Sample Management

The Driller collects core and chip samples at specified intervals to ensure representative geological data. This position labels and seals samples securely to maintain chain of custody until transfer to the assay laboratory.

Data Recording

The role records daily drilling data including depth, lithology, and operational incidents in the digital logging system. The Driller ensures all logs are accurate and submitted to the Drilling Supervisor at the end of each shift.

This position manages drilling fluids and cuttings in accordance with environmental regulations and site-specific waste management plans. The Driller ensures no unauthorized discharge of materials occurs during operations.

The role assists in the setup and breakdown of drilling rigs at new exploration sites. The Driller ensures all tools and spare parts are accounted for and stored correctly during mobilization.

Team Coordination

The Driller collaborates with geologists and maintenance staff to adjust drilling parameters based on subsurface conditions. This position communicates operational issues clearly to supervisors to facilitate timely decision-making.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent technical certification in drilling or mechanical operations.
• Minimum of three years of experience operating surface drilling rigs in a mining or exploration environment.
• Valid Saudi driving license with the ability to operate heavy machinery in remote locations.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting drilling plans and geological diagrams.
• Demonstrated knowledge of HSE regulations and safe work practices in industrial settings.
• Physical fitness to perform manual labor and work in outdoor conditions under varying weather.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English and Arabic for operational coordination.
• Experience with routine mechanical troubleshooting and basic repair techniques.

Preferred / Nice-to-have

• Previous experience working with Saudi Gold Refinery or similar mining entities in the Kingdom.
• Familiarity with ISO 14001 environmental management systems.
• Training in first aid and emergency response procedures.
• Experience with automated drilling control systems.
• Knowledge of local Saudi mining regulations and MIM requirements.

Success Metrics

• Achieves 95% equipment availability through proactive maintenance and careful operation.
• Maintains a zero lost-time injury record over the twelve-month period.
• Delivers 100% accurate sample labeling and chain-of-custody documentation.
• Completes all assigned drilling meters within the scheduled timeframe.
• Reduces non-productive time due to operational errors by 10%.
• Successfully completes advanced drilling safety training modules.
• Receives positive feedback from geologists regarding sample quality and integrity.

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.