Exploration Drilling Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Exploration Geologist leads near-mine resource conversion drilling around the pit envelope, advancing Inferred resources to Indicated through RC and diamond infill and extensional programs. This role owns pit-wall and near-pit structural mapping that underpins resource model confidence and structural domain control, and directly supervises field technicians and samplers on logging quality, sample chain of custody, and field HSE conduct. The Exploration Geologist works closely with Grade Control, Mine Planning, and Survey to keep near-pit drilling and mapping aligned with the active mining schedule, reporting to the Geology Manager.

• Direct RC and diamond infill/extensional drilling programs to convert Inferred resources to Indicated around the pit envelope.
• Supervise field technicians and samplers daily, including logging QA, sample chain of custody, and field HSE conduct.
• Review overnight drill progress each shift (meters, hole status, downtime reasons) and action issues before the day's program proceeds.
• Confirm daily rig targets, mapping traverses, and site access with Mine Planning and Survey at shift start.

• Conduct and review pit-wall and near-pit structural mapping (veins, alteration, shear fabric, contacts) using orogenic-style structural criteria.
• Spot-check core/chip logging quality in the field against established structural and geological standards.
• Update structural/geological interpretation and domains as new logging and mapping data become available.

• Review Geobank data entry daily (collar, downhole survey, lithology/structural logs) for completeness and error flags.
• Confirm QAQC insertion (CRM/blank/duplicate) at the correct frequency before samples leave site.
• Import and validate weekly assay results into Geobank; reconcile against QAQC performance and flag failures for re-assay or resample, routing sign-off to the Geology Manager.

• Incorporate validated monthly assay and structural data into the Micromine Mineral Resource model.
• Track and report Inferred → Indicated conversion status against the resource conversion plan.
• Compile and present weekly drilling/QAQC ops updates and a monthly geology report (resource conversion progress, drilling summary vs. budget, QAQC compliance, structural/model changes, and risks to resource classification) to the Geology Manager and mine manager.

• Roster field technicians and samplers weekly and align drill targeting with resource/mine planning input.
• Review field crew performance, logging quality trends, and training needs; develop the next month's drill program and mapping plan against budget.
• Attend weekly ops meetings with the mine manager, Grade Control, Mine Planning, and Survey to align drilling and mapping access with the mining schedule.

• Place the safety, health, and wellbeing of employees and contractors as the top priority in all field activity.
• Identify and control occupational hazards; conduct field risk assessments and safety observations.
• Support MRG's commitment to environmental stewardship and comply with all applicable permits and best management practices.

• Bachelor of Science in Geology or Geological Engineering.
• 3–5 years of experience in resource or exploration geology within a mining operation.
• Working proficiency in Micromine (or comparable resource modeling software such as Vulcan or Leapfrog).
• Demonstrated knowledge of QAQC protocols (CRM/blank/duplicate insertion and review).
• Ability to work and live onsite at a remote mining operation.

• Master's degree in Geology.
• Experience with orogenic-style gold mineralization and structural domain interpretation.
• Prior experience supervising field technicians or samplers.

• Ability to traverse rugged, uneven mine site terrain, including inclines and unpaved surfaces.
• Exposure to outdoor conditions, including extreme heat, cold, and dust.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs (core boxes, field sampling equipment).
• Comfortable wearing required PPE for extended periods, including respirators when necessary.
• Valid driver's license required for site and field mobility.

This role splits time between the pit/drill sites and the site geology office, with regular field presence supervising drilling and mapping. The Exploration Geologist interfaces daily with field technicians and samplers, and regularly with Grade Control, Mine Planning, Survey, and the Geology Manager.

The employee may be required to perform other related duties as assigned to meet ongoing operational needs.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a post-offer background screening, medical exam, and drug/alcohol screening verifying the candidate's ability to safely perform the essential functions of the position.

Mineral Ridge Gold is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This job description does not constitute a contract of employment and may be revised at any time.