Metallurgical Technician

Iluka Resources; Balranald; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

FIFO/DIDO/Residential options

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Iluka Resources is seeking a Metallurgical Technician for our Balranald operation in regional NSW. This site-based role offers a permanent position with a 8:6 / 7:7 roster and travel from Melbourne or Adelaide or relocation support.

The Balranald operation utilizes a novel, remotely operated underground mining tech. You will collect samples, monitor plant performance, ensure lab compliance, and provide actionable recommendations to improve recovery and efficiency while supporting safety and

Qualifications

• Cert IV in Metalliferous Mining or higher.
• Experience in a mineral processing plant or laboratory.
• Strong written and verbal communication and teamwork.
• Intermediate Microsoft Excel skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Collect and process samples from the Wet Concentrator Plant and present results.
• Ensure laboratory compliance and maintain equipment and stock.
• Monitor WCP performance, including concentrate grade and recovery.
• Perform laboratory flotation tests to improve plant performance.
• Provide advice to Operations on WCP parameter adjustments.
• Develop safe work instructions for metallurgical tasks.
• Investigate WCP performance and suggest process improvements.
• Coach WCP operators with technical guidance.

Skills

Metallurgical processes

Laboratory experience

Analytical thinking

Excel skills

Communication skills

Education

Cert IV in Metalliferous Mining or higher

Job description

Site Based – Balranald, NSW 8:6 / 7:7 Roster, Permanent Position FIFO from Melbourne or DIDO regional or relocation support available Iluka Resources is a global critical minerals company with a proud 70-year history and an exciting future. As we enter a pivotal phase of growth, we are seeking a passionate Metallurgical Technician to join our pioneering Balranald Operation. Join Iluka's new Balranald Operation that deploys a novel, remotely operated, underground mining technology based on Horizontal Direction Drilling platforms to extract ore.

The 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 Melbourne.

About The Role

We have an exciting opportunity for a Metallurgical Technician to join our team.

Join a collaborative team environment where safety, wellbeing and respect are at the heart of how we work. While on site, you'll have access to great camp accommodation and facilities including a gym, sports courts, recreation areas, Wi‑Fi and Foxtel. This permanent FIFO opportunity operates on a family-friendly 8:6 / 7:7 roster, with travel provided from Melbourne or Adelaide, supporting a balance between a rewarding career and life outside of work.

Key elements of the role include:

• Collect and process samples from the Wet Concentrator Plant (WCP) in the site laboratory, and present results in required reporting formats
• Ensure laboratory compliance with required standards, maintenance of laboratory equipment and commercially astute management of laboratory stock levels
• Monitor performance of the WCP including heavy mineral concentrate grade, heavy mineral recovery, and other key parameters such as water and reagent quality
• Perform laboratory flotation tests to assess and improve plant performance
• Provide advice to the Operations team on adjustment to WCP operating parameters
• Review and develop safe work instructions and procedures for routine metallurgical tasks
• Complete investigatory work into WCP performance, and provide recommendations for process improvement and cost reduction
• Provide technical coaching and guidance for WCP operators

About You

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Cert IV in Metalliferous Mining or higher
• Experience working in a mineral processing plant, laboratory or related industry
• Strong written and verbal communication, interpersonal and teamwork skills
• Intermediate Microsoft Excel skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• The ability to manage competing priorities and work both independently and as part of a team

Our offer to you

• Be part of the development of a new mine employing innovative mining methods
• Family friendly 8:6 / 7:7 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

Applicants will be required to meet Iluka’s pre-employment criteria which includes a medical, drug and alcohol screening and hold a valid motor vehicle driver’s license. 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, Full working rights in Australia are required for you to be eligible to apply for this role.

Applications close: 23rd of November 2026 “We respect and encourage diversity in a workforce that reflects our communities.”

We are committed to upholding our Business Values, supporting equal opportunities, gender equality and cultural diversity.

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, 0ur 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.