Drilling Engineer

Iluka Balranald Operations; Balranald; On-site; AUD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Family friendly 8:6 roster

Travel during rostered work time

New camp facilities within close prox.

Be supported through an inclusive and

Opportunities for training and profess

Up to 18 weeks paid parental leave

Competitive remuneration package incl.

Company share matching scheme

Relocation assistance packages may be

Job summary

Iluka Resources Balranald operation seeks an experienced Drilling Engineer to design, plan and oversee drilling and underground extraction activities in support of the Balranald project.

You will lead a team of technical professionals, optimise drilling plans for 4 HK550 rigs, and ensure safety and alignment with the production plan.

Qualifications

• Experience managing large-scale drilling projects
• Knowledge of drilling systems and equipment design
• Ability to work well under pressure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously
• Proven track record of success in the drilling industry
• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Civil or Geotechnical Engineering
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in drilling operations
• Strong technical knowledge and understanding of drilling processes
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• Ability to analyse data and make informed decisions
• Proficient in drilling software applications (Cyberloop desirable)

Responsibilities

• Design and plan optimal horizontal drilling plans to support the deployment of 4 x HK550 drilling rigs, including optimising drilling fluid supply systems and all associated activities
• Provide technical oversight and be the key site technical lead associated with all activities associated the underground mining extraction method, including further development and enhancement of what is the first full scale commercial deployment of this mining technology as developed by Iluka
• Ensure maximum ore reserve recovery is achieved and processes refined to deliver an integrated plan for the UGM team to execute

Skills

Drilling projects

Drilling systems design

Data analysis

Leadership

Drilling software

Education

Petroleum Engineering

Civil Engineering

Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

Cyberloop

Job description

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.

You can choose to reside locally, or fly-in fly-out from Melbourne. For South Australian residents we will mobilise you via road transport from our Iluka office in Adelaide.

About the role

With the operation now currently in the ramp up phase we have the need for an experienced and innovative Drilling Engineer to support the operation.

Reporting to the Technical Services Manager the Drilling Engineer is accountable for the design, planning and technical oversight of all drilling and underground mining extraction activities that support the Balranald operation.

The role will work with a team of technical professionals to ensure both the drilling and underground extraction activities are undertaken safely and in line with the integrated production plan.

You can find out about our Balranald operation through the following link:

Balranald - Resource Development | Iluka Resources

Your accountabilities will include:

• Design and plan optimal horizontal drilling plans to support the deployment of 4 x HK550 drilling rigs, including optimising drilling fluid supply systems and all associated activities

• Provide technical oversight and be the key site technical lead associated with all activities associated the underground mining extraction method, including further development and enhancement of what is the first full scale commercial deployment of this mining technology as developed by Iluka

• Ensure maximum ore reserve recovery is achieved and processes refined to deliver an integrated plan for the UGM team to execute

About you

• Experience managing large-scale drilling projects

• Knowledge of drilling systems and equipment design

• Ability to work well under pressure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously

• Proven track record of success in the drilling industry

• Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering, Civil or Geotechnical Engineering

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in drilling operations

• Strong technical knowledge and understanding of drilling processes

• Excellent communication and leadership skills

• Ability to analyse data and make informed decisions

• Proficient in drilling software applications (Cyberloop desirable)

Our offer to you

• Family friendly 8:6 roster

• Travel during rostered work time depending on your home location

• New camp facilities within close proximity to the operation, including two gyms, a tennis and basketball court

• Be supported through an inclusive and collaborative culture

• 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 candidate

You will be supported, empowered, included and encouraged to be the best version of yourself.

Full working rights in Australia, with no visa restrictions or conditions, are required for you to be eligible to apply for this role.

Applications Close: 17 April 2026

“We respect and encourage diversity in a workforce that reflects our communities.”