Site Based – Balranald, NSW
2 weeks on, 2 weeks off, Permanent Positions
Iluka Resources is a global critical minerals company, with a proud 70 year history, entering a pivotal time of growth. With a bright future ahead, we are seeking team members for our exciting Balranald operation where we will be deploying a new mining technology. Using remotely operated, novel underground mining (UGM) systems to extract key critical minerals.
About the location
Iluka’s Balranald operation is located in the Riverina district of southwestern New South Wales. The development is focused on the rutile and zircon rich West Balranald deposit, which also contains material quantities of rare earth minerals.
Owing to its relative depth (approximately 60 metres below surface), Iluka has over several years assessed the potential to develop West Balranald via a novel, remotely operated, underground mining (UGM) technology.
Iluka’s UGM technology is akin to keyhole surgery for the mining of critical minerals. This enables access to ore bodies previously thought uneconomic, with marked reductions in both environmental disturbance and carbon intensity relative to traditional mineral sands extraction techniques, which are themselves less impactful than other commodities.
You can choose to reside locally, drive-in drive-out from towns within the regional area, or fly-in fly-out from Melbourne. For South Australian residents we will mobilise you via road transport from our Iluka office in Adelaide.
You can find out about our Balranald operation through the following link:
About the location
Iluka’s Balranald operation is located approximately 12kms outside of Balranald township in regional south-western NSW.
You can choose to reside locally, drive-in drive-out from towns within the regional area, or fly-in fly-out from select Australian capital cities.
We are also supportive of interstate and international relocation and/or sponsorship for the right person.
About the roles
You will lead one of 4 Extraction teams which operate 24/7.
You will be accountable for deploying teams operating 4 HK550 HDD rigs and support systems. You will have operational control over the rigs, working in pairs, the drilling fluid support systems as well as support logistics assets and select parts of the surface infrastructure.
As a HDD professional, when compared to any other industry role, you will get greater exposure to HDD systems, live data analytics and processing information. Whilst ensuring mineral recovery is maximised, the opportunity to build lead and develop your teams is extensive.
About you
You will be an experienced leader of teams in the HDD industry with a bias for action. You will be able to organise and develop your teams to achieve production metrics with a strong focus on safety performance. You will also be able to work across team functions to achieve collective outcomes.
Our offer to you
Family friendly 2:2 roster
New camp facilities within proximity to the operation, including two gyms, a tennis and basketball court
Be supported through an inclusive and collaborative culture
Up to 18 Weeks paid parental leave
Competitive remuneration package including allowances and bonus structure
Company share matching scheme
Attractive relocation assistance packages for those interested!
We are committed to upholding our Business Values, supporting equal opportunities, gender equality and cultural diversity.
If you share our values of Integrity, Respect, Courage, Accountability and Collaboration; and you have the skills and experience to help us to succeed and deliver sustainable value, apply now.
Full working rights in Australia are required for you to be eligible to apply for this role.
Applications close: 2 October 2026
“We respect and encourage diversity in a workforce that reflects our communities.”