Resource estimation professionals create JORC-compliant reports where precise terminology and accurate calculations determine mining project valuations. Editorial errors in reserve classifications or geostatistical parameters can lead to securities violations and costly project delays.

Our specialized assessments evaluate candidates' mastery of mining terminology, numerical accuracy in ore calculations, and understanding of regulatory standards. We identify editors who can maintain precision in technical reports that directly impact project financing and compliance.

Illustrative scenario

Misclassified Measured Resources Trigger ASX Investigation

A mining company's technical report incorrectly classified indicated resources as measured resources, overstating reserve confidence levels. The ASX launched a compliance investigation when investors questioned the resource categorization discrepancies in the annual statement.

A composite example of a failure mode that is common in Resource Reserves Estimation. It is not an account of a real client engagement and no real organisation is described.

Documents You'll Be Testing

JORC-compliant resource statements
Geostatistical estimation reports
Block model validation studies
Competent person reports
Pre-feasibility resource updates
Mine planning reserve reconciliations

Avoid These Common Editorial Mistakes

Confusing measured and indicated resource categories

Regulatory non-compliance and potential securities violations for overstating resource confidence

Incorrect geostatistical parameter reporting

Unreliable resource estimates leading to mine planning failures and production shortfalls

Misapplying JORC Code terminology

Rejected technical reports requiring costly re-submission and project delays

Tonnage calculation transcription errors

Incorrect project valuations affecting financing decisions and investor relations

Grade unit inconsistencies

Erroneous economic assessments leading to poor mining investment decisions

Master These Key Terms

mineral resources vs ore reserves
measured resources vs proven reserves
kriging variance vs estimation error
grade continuity vs geological continuity
dilution vs depletion

Smart Hiring Strategies

Seek candidates who demonstrate expertise with mineral resource categories, JORC Code requirements, and geostatistical terminology. Prioritize those who show strong numerical accuracy and understand the critical distinction between mineral resources and ore reserves.

Resource estimation documents drive multimillion-dollar investment decisions and regulatory approvals. Editorial precision in these technical reports is essential to prevent compliance failures and maintain investor trust in mining projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do we test candidates' ability to handle JORC Code compliance requirements? ↓
Our assessments include scenarios requiring proper classification of measured, indicated, and inferred resources. Candidates must demonstrate understanding of competent person requirements and public disclosure standards. We test their ability to identify non-compliant terminology that could trigger regulatory issues.
What level of numerical precision should we expect from resource estimation candidates? ↓
Candidates should maintain accuracy in tonnage calculations, grade estimations, and confidence interval reporting. Our tests evaluate their ability to spot errors in geostatistical parameters and resource classification boundaries. Even small numerical errors can significantly impact project economics and investor decisions.
Should we test understanding of different international resource reporting standards? ↓
Yes, many mining companies operate across multiple jurisdictions with varying standards like JORC, NI 43-101, and SAMREC. Our assessments can evaluate candidates' familiarity with different reporting codes. This is particularly important for companies with international mining assets requiring diverse compliance approaches.
How important is geostatistical terminology knowledge for non-technical resource estimation roles? ↓
Even administrative and communication roles require basic understanding of kriging, block modeling, and resource classification terms. These professionals often prepare summaries or coordinate between technical teams and management. Misunderstanding key concepts can lead to miscommunication affecting project decisions and regulatory compliance.
What red flags should we look for in candidates' resource estimation writing samples? ↓
Watch for confusion between resource and reserve categories, inconsistent grade units, and improper use of confidence terminology. Candidates who mix up measured versus indicated classifications or misstate JORC requirements pose significant compliance risks. Poor numerical precision in calculations is also a critical concern for technical accuracy.