At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate vacuum pans and manage sugar production processes with full training provided.
- Company: Join Sunshine Sugar, a leading Australian-owned sugar milling company in a stunning coastal region.
- Benefits: Enjoy 5 weeks annual leave, 25% leave loading, and a stable long-term role.
- Other info: Flexible shift roster with opportunities for overtime and career growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a vital industry while enjoying the beautiful Northern Rivers lifestyle.
- Qualifications: Mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills; experience in manufacturing is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 $ per year.
We are an Australian owned sugar milling and refining company operating three sugar mills and a refinery in the Northern Rivers region of NSW. Identified as one of the largest agricultural and manufacturing sectors in the region, employing over 350 people directly and a further 2500 indirectly to support the local industry. The region, known for its stunning beaches, rivers, fishing and natural wonders extends across seven shires including Tweed, Byron Bay, Ballina and the Clarence Valley. Harwood is situated on the Clarence River, 20 minutes to Yamba, or 50km to Grafton.
About the role
We are seeking a Pan Station Operator (Sugar Boiler) to join the production team at Harwood Sugar Mill. This critical role is responsible for the operation of vacuum pans and massecuite‑handling systems within our raw sugar manufacturing process. Key equipment includes vacuum pan vessels, pumps, massecuite‑handling systems and other associated production machinery. Full training will be provided.
Reporting to the Shift Supervisor, you will be responsible for:
- Monitoring and controlling vacuum pan processes to achieve production & quality targets
- Maintaining the precise conditions needed for effective sugar crystal growth
- Operating and overseeing equipment (pans, pumps and massecuite‑handling systems)
- Responding to process variations and making decisions to optimise plant performance
Roster: This position works on a 4 on 4 off continuous shift roster during the crushing season (mid-June to end of November). During the maintenance season (January - June), work hours revert to day work Monday to Friday 8 hours per day supporting maintenance and/or other departments.
Key requirements
- Previous experience within a manufacturing, food processing or industrial continuous environment will be highly regarded, but is not essential
- Strong mechanical aptitude and problem‑solving skills
- Able to work independently and make operational decisions based on judgement and skill
- High level communication skills both written and verbal
- The ability to monitor and control multiple processes simultaneously
- Commitment to workplace health and safety
- General computer skills, including the use of a computerised operator interface to control process equipment (or ability to learn)
- Flexibility to work rotating shift roster and be available for overtime
We can offer you:
- 5 weeks annual leave
- 25% leave loading (on 4 weeks)
- Long term stable role with an Australian owned business
The successful candidate will be required to complete a pre‑employment medical including hearing test, alcohol & drug screening.
Process Operator – Sunshine Sugar Harwood employer: New South Wales Sugar Milling Co-operative Limited
Sunshine Sugar is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises health, safety, and continuous improvement. With generous benefits like five weeks of annual leave and a nine-day fortnight during maintenance season, employees enjoy a great work-life balance while contributing to a vital industry in the beautiful Northern Rivers region. The company fosters professional growth through training programs and a commitment to building capability within teams, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
Contact Details:
New South Wales Sugar Milling Co-operative Limited Recruitment Team
