Drill Operators

LUKA RESOURCES; Balranald; Hybrid; AUD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

2 weeks on, 2 weeks off roster

New camp facilities nearby

Training and professional development

Up to 18 weeks parental leave

Relocation assistance

Company share matching scheme

Job summary

Iluka Resources in Balranald, NSW is seeking Expression of Interest for Drill Operators (HDD) to join our site-based Extraction team. The role involves operating HK550 HDD rigs on a 2 weeks on, 2 weeks off roster, with advanced mud and steering systems and live data analytics.

We offer thorough training, new camp facilities, relocation assistance, and a comprehensive remuneration package with allowances and potential bonuses.

Qualifications

• Experienced HDD Drill Operator with Maxi rig experience preferred.
• Certification in drilling, ideally Horizontal Directional Drilling.
• High-Risk Work tickets (Dogging, Rigging, Crane, Telehandler) preferred.

Skills

HDD Drill Operator

Maxi Rig Experience

HDD Certification

High-Risk Tickets

Tools

HK550 HDD rigs

Job description

Drill Operators### Drill OperatorsApply: Balranald: Full time: Posted Today: End Date: December 22, 2026 (30+ days left to apply): R3027* **Site Based – Balranald, NSW*** **2 weeks on, 2 weeks off*** **Expression of Interest – Drill Operators (HDD)****About us**lluka Resources is a leading global producer of the critical minerals, zircon and high-grade titanium dioxide feedstocks (rutile and synthetic rutile). Iluka has also established a significant position in rare earth elements (rare earths). 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. Our people are the foundation of our business and are vital to our success now and into the future. Iluka offers an empowering and inclusive work environment that is as diverse as the communities in which we operate. **About the location**Iluka’s Balranald operation is located in the Riverina district of south western 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.The option exists to either reside within the local region, Drive in Drive out or Fly in Fly out from most capital cities.**About our opportunities** We welcome **expressions of interest from experienced Drill Operators** who wish to be considered for future opportunities within our Extraction team. In these roles, you will get exposure in deploying these platforms in conjunction with a technology not operated anywhere else. Thorough training will be delivered for our custom designed HK550 HDD rigs.As HDD professionals, when compared to any other industry role, you will get greater exposure to mud processes and steering systems, live data analytics and even processing information. The breadth of professional development is unparalleled. You can find out about our Balranald operation through the following link:Balranald - Resource Development | Iluka Resources**About you*** Experienced HDD Drill Operator* Maxi rig experience highly regarded* A certification in drilling, preferably a Horizontal Directional Drilling Certificate* Preferred High-Risk Work tickets; Dogging, Rigging, Vehicle Loading Crane (Fassi Crane), Telehandler**Our offer to you*** Family friendly 2:2 roster* Be supported through an inclusive and collaborative culture* New camp facilities within close proximity to the operation, including two gyms, a tennis and basketball court* Opportunities for training and professional development* Up to 18 weeks paid parental leave* Competitive remuneration package including allowances and bonus structure* Company share matching scheme* Relocation assistance packages may be considered for the ideal candidateWe 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, submit your expression of interest today! As positions become available, we will review applications and contact suitable candidates.***Full working rights in Australia, with no visa conditions or restrictions, are required for you to be eligible to apply for this expression of interest.*** “We respect and encourage diversity in a workforce that reflects our communities.”