How to apply for Field Operations Lead, Sweden

About KoBold Metals

KoBold Metals is an AI-native mineral exploration and mine development company. It uses artificial intelligence, human intelligence, and new technology to find critical minerals like copper, lithium, and cobalt. Its first discovery, Mingomba in Zambia, is a high-grade copper deposit found at materially less than industry average cost.

About the role

The Field Operations Lead, Sweden is a remote full-time role that likely involves running on-the-ground exploration operations in Sweden. You would coordinate field activities that feed KoBold's subsurface predictions and exploration workflows. This role connects data science and geology to real-world drilling and sampling programs.

A typical day

A typical day might involve coordinating with drill crews and geologists on site, reviewing sample data, and updating remote data science teams on progress. You would also handle logistics, safety checks, and permitting issues. Some days are spent in the field, others on calls and planning with the broader KoBold team.

Who KoBold Metals is looking for

• Experience leading field exploration programs, including drilling, sampling, and logistics.
• Familiarity with Swedish geology, mining regulations, and local permitting or land access processes.
• Comfort working remotely and coordinating across time zones with data scientists, engineers, and geologists.
• Track record of managing safety, contractors, and budgets on remote field projects.

Tips for this application

• Highlight any specific experience with Swedish or Nordic mineral exploration, including local geology and regulatory contacts.
• Describe field programs you have led end-to-end: planning, permitting, drilling, sampling, and data delivery.
• Show how you have worked with data teams or technology tools to improve exploration decisions.
• Quantify results where possible, such as meters drilled, cost per sample, or time saved through better workflows.
• State your location and willingness to travel within Sweden for field rotations, since the role is remote but field-based.

What to cover in your cover letter

Explain why you want to work at an AI-native exploration company rather than a traditional miner. Describe a specific field program you led in Sweden or a similar region and what you delivered. Show you can bridge field operations and data science teams. Mention any experience with critical minerals like copper, lithium, or cobalt.

Research before applying

• Read KoBold's public materials on the Mingomba discovery and its AI exploration methods.
• Look up Swedish mining regulations, the Mining Act, and the role of the Geological Survey of Sweden (SGU).
• Find recent news about critical mineral exploration in Sweden, including any KoBold projects or partnerships.
• Check KoBold's leadership and technical team to understand how field operations fit into the company structure.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• How you would plan and execute a field exploration campaign in Sweden, including permitting and community engagement.
• Your approach to safety and contractor management on remote field projects.
• How you have used data or software to improve field decisions, such as drill targeting or sample quality control.
• A time you solved a logistical or technical problem in the field under time pressure.
• Your understanding of KoBold's AI-driven exploration model and how field operations feed into it.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Applying without any mention of Sweden-specific field experience or willingness to work there.
• Focusing only on traditional mining methods and ignoring KoBold's technology-driven approach.
• Submitting a generic cover letter that does not reference KoBold's AI-native model or critical minerals focus.