At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise extraction operations using innovative mining technology.
- Company: Join Iluka, a global leader in critical minerals with over 70 years of experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, family-friendly rosters, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career growth and relocation assistance available.
- Why this job: Be part of a groundbreaking mining project and make a real impact in the industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in mining or industrial environments; leadership skills are a plus.
The predicted salary is between 113400 - 138600 $ per year.
Site Based – Balranald, NSW
8 days on, 6 days off roster FIFO from Melbourne
Join Iluka's new Balranald Operation that deploys a novel, remotely operated, underground mining technology based on Horizontal Direction Drilling platforms to extract ore. Balranald deposit is one of the highest-grade mineral sands deposits in the world, containing significant quantities of titanium minerals rutile and zircon, as well as smaller but material quantities of rare earths.
About The Location
Iluka’s Balranald operation is located just 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 a capital city.
About the Role
Reporting to the Operations Manager, you are accountable for setting and delivering the strategic direction of the extraction operations team at Balranald, ensuring ore delivery specifications are met, drills are effectively utilised, and the ore body recovered. This is a senior leadership role managing a dynamic and complex business unit and therefore requires an individual who demonstrates an elevated level of autonomy, critical thinking, and decision-making ability.
Your accountabilities will include:
- Optimise and track mineral extraction operations
- Ensure optimal utilisation of drills, mud plant, fixed surface support plant, drilling and pipe workshops and equipment such that utilisation, throughput, meters, and availability metrics are realised for each drill
- Manage underground mining extraction operations contingent with contracts and industry best practice
- Ensure maximum reserve recovery is achieved through utilising, promoting, and improving plant standard operations practices and systems as well as efficient techniques
- Deploy infrastructure and resources (capital, people, operating etc.) effectively through consulting with internal stakeholders to ensure extraction operations are appropriately planned scheduled and executed
About you:
Well-rounded operational leader with experience delivering safe and productive outcomes in mining, resources, or medium to heavy industrial environments. Proven ability to lead through others, building capability, accountability, and high-performing teams. Tertiary qualification in Mining, Engineering, Construction, or a related discipline is preferred. Exposure/experience in the management of mining, fabrication, engineering or other operational vendors and personnel. Strong people leadership skills, including coaching leaders, managing performance, and fostering team engagement. Experience or exposure to drilling operations is a preference but not a requirement.
Our Offer to You:
Be involved in the ongoing development of a new mine with new mining methods. Family friendly 8:6 roster FIFO/DIDO/Residential. Opportunities for training and professional development. Up to 18 weeks paid parental leave. Competitive remuneration package including allowances and bonus structure. Company shares matching scheme. Attractive relocation assistance packages for those interested. Full working rights in Australia are required for you to be eligible to apply for this role.
Applications Close: 06 October 2026
We respect and encourage diversity in a workforce that reflects our communities. Iluka Resources is a global critical minerals company with over 70 years' industry experience in exploration, project development, mining, processing, marketing and rehabilitation. The company's objective is to deliver sustainable value. We are a leading producer of zircon and high grade titanium dioxide feedstocks, rutile and synthetic rutile. We are also set to become a globally material supplier of separated rare earth oxides, via the company's development of Australia's first fully integrated rare earths refinery at Eneabba, in Western Australia. As an international supplier of critical minerals, Iluka’s products are used in an array of applications including technology, construction, medical, lifestyle and industrial uses. As the world moves towards a smarter, safer and sustainable future, our high quality products are increasing in demand. Headquartered in Perth, Western Australia, Iluka is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX). Our people are the foundation of our business and are vital to our success now and into the future. We offer an empowering and inclusive work environment. Whether you are working at one of our welcoming sites or corporate offices, you have the opportunity to build strong connections and truly belong.
Extraction Manager in Balranald employer: LUKA RESOURCES
Iluka Resources is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work at Australia's first fully integrated rare earths refinery in Eneabba, WA. With a strong commitment to safety, diversity, and employee growth, we provide a supportive work culture that values integrity and collaboration. Our team members enjoy modern camp accommodations, access to advanced facilities, and the chance to contribute to sustainable practices in critical minerals production, making this a rewarding place to advance your career.
