Senior Hydrogeologist

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 job

We are looking for a dynamic and highly motivated Senior Hydrogeologist to join our growing Water Management team at the Simandou Project, Guinea. This individual will provide technical leadership for groundwater data management, analysis and reporting, ensuring high quality datasets support effective groundwater management decisions across Project construction and operational phases. The role will be accountable for the integrity, interpretation and optimisation of groundwater data systems, transforming complex datasets into reliable, decision‑ready insights for operational, environmental and regulatory outcomes. This position will offer an excellent opportunity to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, where your efforts will have a direct impact on our company's narrative and identity.

The role requires a passion for Hydrogeology and an enthusiasm for motivating and mentoring others in the delivery of highly technical work.

The position is offered on a FIFO roster basis on a 4/2 roster and reporting to the Water Management Superintendent.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead groundwater data management systems, ensuring robust data governance and version control across all groundwater data sources (VWPs, standpipes (manual and loggers), barometers, water quality and pumping).

• Accountable for groundwater data QA/QC, including validation, error resolution and documentation of data workflows.

• Develop and maintain groundwater monitoring data standards, including data collection, transformations, naming conventions and data handling procedure.

• Manage integration of groundwater data from monitoring networks, telemetry systems and contractor inputs into centralised databases (Excel, MonitorPro and PowerBi).

• Ensure groundwater datasets are fit‑for‑purpose and suitable for operational decision‑making, dashboards and reporting.

• Drive continuous improvement of groundwater data systems, including automation, system optimisation and reduction of manual data handling.

• Support integration of groundwater data with site water balances (Goldsim), groundwater modelling (2D/3D), mine planning tools and corporate reporting.

• Lead analysis, interrogation and interpretation of groundwater datasets to identify trends, anomalies, emerging risks and performance against triggers.

• Define, implement and maintain trigger levels and alert systems, aligned with TARPs and operational thresholds.

• Develop and deliver standardised weekly and monthly reporting, dashboards (PowerBI) and visualisations to support site teams and leadership.

• Provide timely and accurate groundwater data and interpretation to support operational decision‑making, mining schedules, site water balance and groundwater model updates.

• Support the water management team in hydrogeological campaigns and studies, including drilling, installations (monitoring network, depressurisation and water supply wells) and aquifer testing.

• Provide analytical support for aquifer testing, pumping tests and depressurisation performance assessment, including interpretation of test data.

• Interface with Mine Technical Services, Mining Operations and Contractors on groundwater management strategies.

• Collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

• Mentor water management team in best‑practice groundwater data management, analysis and reporting.

• Build capability across the water management team in use of monitoring systems, databases, dashboards and analytical tools.

• Build strong working relationships across multidisciplinary and multicultural teams and stakeholders.

• Actively participate in cross-functional planning and coordination.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Hydrogeology, Geology, Mining Engineering or Geosciences (or similar).

• Minimum 10 years of Hydrogeological experience with strong focus on groundwater data management.

• Familiar with open pit mine operations preferably in remote or international settings.

• A manual class drivers’ licence.

• Proven experience in groundwater data management approaches and systems, with experience in MonitorPro (or similar) advantageous.

• Proficient in groundwater data analysis and interrogation, including multiple source data integration, conversions, trigger setting, and developing weekly or monthly reports and dashboards.

• Experience in site water balance data management, update and tracking (Goldsim experience is a plus).

• Skilled in developing and implementing water management plans for open pit and Trigger Action Response Plans (TARPS).

• Practical knowledge in planning and implementation of hydrogeological field studies and analysis of resultant data.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office including Access, MonitorPro (or similar) and GIS tools (ArcGIS).

• Exposure to GeoExplorer, PowerBi, Vulcan, Leapfrog and AQTESOLV would be an advantage but not essential.

• Familiar with hydrogeological equipment from RST (VWPs, loggers and telemetry), AquaRead, Campbell Scientific (sensors, loggers and telemetry).

• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English; French or Chinese is a plus.

• Ability to work effectively in dynamic, multidisciplinary teams and meet project deadlines.

• Strong report writing, problem-solving, and project management skills.

• Experience in training and mentoring the site Hydrogeologist.

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.