Driller

SAUDI ARABIAN RESOURCES COMPANY; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 90,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

SAUDI ARABIAN RESOURCES COMPANY seeks an experienced Driller to operate rotary and core rigs, monitor performance, and collect samples in a mining exploration setting.

The role requires 3+ years of surface drilling experience, a Saudi driving license, and strong HSE knowledge. You will work with geologists and maintenance staff, ensuring data integrity and environmental compliance.

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.

Responsibilities

• Operate rotary and core drilling rigs to achieve target depths and sample recovery.
• Perform pre-shift and post-shift inspections of rigs, pumps, and equipment.
• Participate in toolbox talks and risk assessments; implement LOTO during maintenance.
• Collect core and chip samples and ensure chain of custody to the assay lab.
• Record daily drilling data and report to the Drilling Supervisor.
• Manage drilling fluids and waste per environmental regulations and site plans.
• Assist with setup and breakdown of rigs at new sites; ensure parts and tools are stored properly.
• Collaborate with geologists and maintenance staff to adjust drilling parameters.

Skills

Drilling operations

Team coordination

English & Arabic communication

Safety compliance

Mechanical troubleshooting

Heavy machinery operation

Education

High school diploma or technical drilling certification

Tools

Drilling rigs

Digital logging system

LOTO procedures

Job description

Drilling Rig Operation

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.

Environmental Stewardship

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.

Site Mobilization

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 and Experience

• 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.