Operations Supervisor

Job Overview

Maandag Middle East is recruiting Operations Supervisors – Mining & Exploration Drilling on behalf of a leading mining and exploration services company in Saudi Arabia.

The successful candidates will oversee and coordinate drilling operations across multiple mining exploration project sites, ensuring operational efficiency, drilling productivity, equipment performance, and compliance with Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) standards.

Candidates with a strong technical background in Diamond Core Drilling (DD) or Reverse Circulation Drilling (RC) and proven experience supervising drilling crews are encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities :

Drilling Operations & Management

• Supervise and coordinate daily DD and/or RC drilling activities across assigned project sites.
• Plan and execute drilling operations in accordance with project schedules, budgets, and client requirements.
• Ensure proper drilling rig setup, alignment, and operational procedures.
• Monitor drilling performance, penetration rates, productivity, and core recovery where applicable.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, including stuck rods, drilling fluid loss, equipment breakdowns, and challenging geological formations.
• Ensure drilling activities meet project quality and operational targets.

Team Leadership & Supervision

• Lead and manage drilling crews, operators, drilling assistants, and support personnel.
• Assign daily tasks and monitor crew performance and productivity.
• Provide technical guidance, on-the-job training, and operational support.
• Promote a strong culture of teamwork, accountability, and workplace safety.

Technical & Equipment Oversight

• Ensure proper use and maintenance of drilling rigs, drilling fluids, downhole tools, and sampling equipment.
• Coordinate routine equipment inspections, preventive maintenance, and repairs.
• Verify drilling logs, depth records, sampling documentation, and daily operational reports.
• Ensure geological samples are collected, handled, and documented according to project requirements.

HSE & Safety Compliance

• Enforce compliance with all site-specific HSE policies, procedures, and safety regulations.
• Conduct daily safety briefings and toolbox talks.
• Identify operational hazards and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure drilling crews use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Promote safe drilling practices across all assigned operations.

Reporting & Coordination

• Prepare daily, weekly, and project-related operational reports.
• Coordinate with Operations Managers, Project Managers, Geologists, and client representatives.
• Communicate project progress, operational challenges, and performance updates.
• Recommend improvements to drilling efficiency, equipment utilization, and operational safety.

Qualifications & Experience

Mandatory Requirements

• Saudi nationality.
• 5–7 years of experience in drilling operations, including at least 3 years in a supervisory role.
• Proven technical experience in Diamond Core Drilling (DD) and/or Reverse Circulation Drilling (RC).
• Experience supervising drilling crews and coordinating field operations.
• Strong understanding of drilling fluids, downhole tools, geological formations, and drilling equipment.
• Knowledge of HSE standards and safe drilling practices.
• Ability to prepare and review drilling reports.
• Fluency in English.
• Willingness to work at remote mining project sites under rotational schedules.