Geophysicist - 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 Geophysicist in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to lead geophysical exploration efforts across its growing portfolio of gold and base metal projects. This role focuses on designing and interpreting geophysical surveys to identify high-potential drill targets within the Arabian Shield. The Geophysicist will integrate subsurface data with geological models to support resource estimation and mine planning. This position is critical to SGR's strategy of expanding its mineral reserves and securing sustainable feedstock for its refining operations.

The Geophysicist will report directly to the VP of Exploration and will play a key role in de-risking exploration assets through advanced geophysical techniques. They will ensure that all exploration activities align with Saudi regulatory requirements and SGR's sustainability goals. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to the Kingdom's Vision 2030 mining pillar by unlocking new mineral resources.

Key Responsibilities

The Geophysicist will be responsible for the following key areas of work.

-Survey Design and Planning

The role designs detailed technical specifications for airborne and ground geophysical surveys to optimize detection of mineralization. It selects appropriate methods and parameters based on geological targets and terrain conditions.

-Data Interpretation and Modeling

This position processes and interprets complex geophysical datasets to create 2D and 3D subsurface models. It integrates these models with geological and geochemical data to refine exploration targets.

-Contractor Oversight

The Geophysicist manages third-party survey contractors to ensure data acquisition meets quality and safety standards. It validates delivered data against contractual specifications before approval.

-Regulatory Compliance

The role prepares technical reports for submission to the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources (MIM). It ensures all exploration activities comply with Saudi mining laws and environmental permits.

-Database Management

This position maintains a centralized geophysical database to support long-term exploration strategy. It ensures data integrity and accessibility for future resource estimation and auditing.

-Target Generation

The Geophysicist identifies structural controls and lithological units prospective for gold emplacement. It prioritizes drill targets based on integrated geophysical and geological evidence.

-HSE and Environmental Stewardship

The role collaborates with the HSE team to ensure survey operations adhere to safety and environmental standards. It minimizes environmental impact during field data acquisition campaigns.

-Strategic Technical Support

This position provides geophysical constraints for resource block models to improve estimation accuracy. It advises the VP of Exploration on the technical feasibility of new exploration initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Geophysics, Geology, or Earth Sciences from an accredited university.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in mineral exploration geophysics, preferably in the Arabian Shield.
• Proven expertise in designing and interpreting airborne and ground geophysical surveys.
• Proficiency in geophysical software such as Oasis Montaj, Geosoft, or equivalent platforms.
• Strong understanding of structural geology and its relationship to geophysical signatures.
• Experience with regulatory reporting to the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources (MIM).
• Ability to work in remote field locations and manage multi-disciplinary teams.
• Fluency in English for technical reporting and international collaboration.

Preferred / Nice-to-have

• Master's degree or PhD in Geophysics or Economic Geology.
• Experience with induced polarization (IP) and resistivity surveys in arid environments.
• Familiarity with JORC or NI 43-101 reporting standards.
• Knowledge of Arabic language to facilitate local stakeholder engagement.
• Membership in the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG).

Success Metrics

• Completion of geophysical surveys for at least three major exploration targets within the first year.
• Delivery of integrated geophysical-geological models that result in successful drill target definition.
• Establishment of a robust geophysical database supporting long-term exploration planning.
• Full compliance with MIM reporting requirements for all active exploration licenses.
• Reduction of exploration risk by identifying and excluding low-potential areas through precise mapping.
• Successful management of contractor performance with zero major safety or quality incidents.
• Positive feedback from the VP of Exploration on technical contributions to resource estimation.

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.