Principal Geologist, Target Generation

Ma’aden; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading mining company in Saudi Arabia seeks a Principal Geologist to lead the identification and development of high-potential mineral exploration targets. The ideal candidate has over 10 years of experience in mineral exploration with strong skills in geological modeling and data integration. Responsibilities include developing geological models, integrating various datasets, and mentoring junior geologists. This role requires effective communication, leadership skills, and a commitment to safety and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in mineral exploration with a strong focus on target generation and mineral systems modeling.

Responsibilities

• Lead the identification and development of mineral exploration targets.
• Develop regional and deposit-scale geological models for target generation.
• Integrate geophysical, geochemical, and remote sensing datasets.
• Provide technical leadership in mineral systems analysis and predictive targeting.
• Mentor junior geologists and contribute to team capability development.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.

Skills

Expertise in mineral systems and predictive geological modeling

Proficiency in GIS, 3D modeling, and data integration tools

Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities

Effective communication and leadership skills

Ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Earth Sciences, or related field

Master’s or PhD preferred

Job description

Principal Geologist – Target Generation

Reporting to: Director Advance Stage Special Projects

Position Type: Regular

Job Purpose

To lead the identification and development of high-potential mineral exploration targets through advanced geological modeling, data integration, and strategic analysis. The Principal Geologist will play a critical role in shaping the exploration pipeline by applying mineral systems thinking and leveraging cutting‑edge geoscientific tools to discover new opportunities.

Key Accountabilities

• Develop and refine regional and deposit‑scale geological models to support target generation.
• Integrate geophysical, geochemical, and remote sensing datasets to identify prospective areas.
• Lead target ranking and prioritization processes in collaboration with exploration teams.
• Provide technical leadership in mineral systems analysis and predictive targeting.
• Mentor junior geologists and contribute to capability development across the team.
• Collaborate with external consultants, research institutions, and internal stakeholders.
• Ensure all target generation activities comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.

Minimum Qualifications, Experience and Competencies

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Earth Sciences, or related field. Master’s or PhD preferred.

Minimum Experience: 10+ years in mineral exploration with a strong focus on target generation and mineral systems modeling.

Ma’aden High Performance Competencies

• Strategic Thinking
• Technical Mastery
• Collaboration and Influence
• Innovation and Continuous Improvement
• Results Orientation

Skills

• Expertise in mineral systems and predictive geological modeling
• Proficiency in GIS, 3D modeling, and data integration tools
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities
• Effective communication and leadership skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders