Principal Geoscientist – Geological Modelling and Estimation

An inclusive environment for all
We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where employees feel comfortable being themselves. We also want everyone to feel that their voices matter, that all cultures are respected, and that perspectives, as diverse as they are, are not only welcome, but essential to our success. We treat each other fairly and with dignity, regardless of race, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, age, sexual orientation or any other distinguishing aspect.

At Rio Tinto, we welcome and encourage applications from women, older workers, persons with disabilities and representatives from diverse backgrounds.

Everyone is different, and we believe that these differences are our strength. The diversity of skills, life experiences, and perspectives within our team enhances the way we work and our ability to succeed together.

About the role

All progress begins with pioneers. At Rio Tinto, it begins with you.

We are looking for a Principal Geoscientist – Geological Modelling and Estimation.

Join a collaborative team shaping the long-term development of a world-class ore body. Reporting to the Geology Manager – Technical & Strategy, you will lead geological modelling and resource estimation, ensuring robust models that underpin mine planning and value creation. This is a senior technical leadership role combining strategic vision with hands-on delivery requiring strong project management skills to prioritize tasks, manage timelines, and align technical outputs with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead geological modelling and estimation:, ensuring accuracy and compliance cooperate governance and regulatory standards

• Provide technical expertise: Mentor team members, build capability, share best practices, and solve complex geological challenges.

• Deliver projects: Plan, execute, monitor, and complete activities on time and within scope. Provide oversight, prioritisation and tasks allocation to team. Use effective project management to ensure deliverables are completed on time and integrated into planning cycles.

• Collaborate with stakeholders: Maximize ore body value, shape projects, and anticipate risks through a multi-discipline approach ensuring governance, quality assurance, and risk management.

• Drive continuous improvement: Enhance systems, processes, and governance across the geoscience value chain

• Support across Geoscience disciplines: Input into drilling strategies across time horizons including grade control, geological mapping, and reconciliation frameworks.

What you’ll bring

• A Degree in Geoscience

• 10+ years’ experience with extensive focus in geological modelling and resource estimation (experience in databases and study environments considered a positive)

• Advanced skills in mining software – preferably Maptek, Leapfrog, Acquire

• Strong leadership and mentoring ability, with a proactive and resilient approach.

• The ability to thrive in dynamic, high-profile projects exhibiting a proactive approach

• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills.

• Deep understanding of the mining value chain and technical interdependencies.

• Commitment to safety, governance, and technical excellence.

• French language skills are highly advantageous.

• Experience in project management or formal training would be a strong advantage.

What we offer

Get recognition for your contributions, your ability to think, your hard work, and the satisfaction of knowing that you have helped the world move forward.

• Work environment where safety is always the top priority
• Competitive base salary based on your skills and experience
• Annual cash incentives for eligible employees
• Career development opportunities and training assistance to achieve your aspirations • Access to family-friendly health programs, top-notch retirement and savings plans
• Wellness benefits
• Rio Tinto's generous employee stock ownership plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• One-on-one wellness support (personal and professional matters) for you and your family
• Comprehensive leave policy covering all important life moments (vacation/annual, paid parental leave, etc.)  
   

About the Simandou Project
The Simandou Iron Ore Project is located in the Republic of Guinea, West Africa. It is Africa’s largest infrastructure and mining project and represents one of the largest known reserves of high-grade iron ore in the world.

Rio Tinto holds rights to Simandou Blocks 3 and 4 through SimFer, a joint venture between the Government of the Republic of Guinea, Rio Tinto and Chalco Iron Ore Holdings (CIOH). Construction of the mine, together with the associated rail and port infrastructure, is well underway with first production from the SimFer mine expected in 2025.

About Rio Tinto
Rio Tinto is a global leader in the mining and materials companies. We are established in 35 countries where we produce iron ore, copper, aluminum, critical minerals, and other materials needed for the global energy transition and the prosperity of people, communities, and nations. We have been in business for 150 years, drawing on knowledge accumulated over generations and on different continents. Our mission – to find better ways to provide the materials the world needs – guides us in our quest for innovation and continuous improvement, with the goal of making products that are low in emissions and meet the right environmental, social and governance standards. But because we can't do it alone, we focus on creating partnerships that allow us to solve problems, create mutually beneficial situations and seize opportunities.

R46254