Processing Plant Operator

Hawkins Industrial Contracting; Cobar; On-site; AUD 55,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation provided in Cobar

Daily meal allowance supplied

All PPE and basic site inductions

Job summary

Hawkins Industrial Contracting is seeking a Processing Plant Operator for a mining operation in Cobar, NSW. The role involves operating and monitoring plant equipment to ensure safe, efficient production, with accommodation and meals supplied during rostered shifts.

The successful candidate will work on a rotating roster, maintain compliance with safety and environmental standards, and contribute to continuous improvement in plant performance.

Qualifications

• Experience in a processing plant or mining environment.
• Ability to follow procedures and work autonomously.
• Mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Relevant tickets, licences, or qualifications are desirable.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor processing equipment, including crushers, mills, conveyors, flotation cells, thickeners, reagents, filters and other plant systems.
• Record operational data, production metrics, and observations in shift reports.
• Perform basic troubleshooting and escalate complex issues as needed.
• Adhere to safety procedures and environmental regulations; participate in safety meetings.

Skills

Mining experience

Plant operations

Safety procedures

Autonomous work

Mechanical aptitude

Job description

Hawkins Industrial Contracting - Cobar NSW

Role: Processing Plant Operator Location: Cobar, NSW Pay Rate: Level 1 - $40.00 - $45.00 per hour (flat rate) Superannuation: Paid on all hours Roster: 7 on / 7 off Duration: Temp to Permanent Opportunity

Inclusions

• Accommodation provided in Cobar
• Daily meal allowance supplied
• All PPE and basic site inductions organised prior to mobilisation

Hawkins Resourcing is seeking a reliable and safety-focused Processing Plant Operator to join a mining operation in Cobar, NSW. This role offers the opportunity to operate and monitor plant equipment in a dynamic and supportive work environment, contributing directly to the efficiency and success of the operation.

About the Role

The Processing Technician is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the processing plant. This role includes the monitoring and operation of equipment in the processing plant and associated areas to achieve optimal performance, ensuring compliance with operational, safety, and environmental standards.

This role operates on a rotating roster, providing a structured schedule and opportunities for work-life balance.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Tasks

Operate and monitor processing equipment, including crushers, mills, conveyors, flotation cells, thickeners, reagents, filters and other plant systems.

• Operate the Tailings Storage Facility (TSF) in line with the Tailings Operational Management Plan.
• Monitor and adjust process parameters to ensure production targets for recovery, throughput, and product quality are met.
• Record operational data, production metrics, and observations in shift reports.

Maintenance Support

• Perform basic troubleshooting of equipment and elevate complex issues to the Processing Shift Supervisor.
• Conduct regular equipment inspections as required by operations or legal compliance to identify and address potential issues before they may affect operations.

Safety and Environmental Compliance

• Adherence to lockout/tagout (LOTO), Working at Heights, Confined Space and other Safety procedures.
• Identify and report hazards or unsafe conditions immediately.
• Participate in safety meetings, risk assessments and emergency drills.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations, including the proper handling of waste and hazardous materials.
• Promote a culture of safety, open communication and a team environment, including the participation in safety meetings.
• Enforce the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure work areas are kept clean and free from hazards.
• Conduct risk assessments and hazard identification inspections and implement corrective actions as necessary.
• Report and document any safety incidents, near misses, and hazards to ensure timely corrective actions.

Collaboration and Communication

• Coordinate with the metallurgical team and other crews to minimize downtime and
• Participate in team meetings and provide feedback to improve operational efficiency.

Housekeeping and Training

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the processing area.
• Participate in training and skill development programs to improve technical competencies and safety awareness.
• The Company supports and maintains a Mines Rescue Team and all employees are encouraged to be on a team.
• Shift-based continuous roster, including day and night shifts, weekends, and holidays.
• Exposure to industrial noise, dust, and temperature variations.
• Regular physical demands, including but not limited to:
  • o standing for extended periods
  • o Lifting
  • o Working in and around operating machinery
  • o Heights
  • Chemicals used in the processing plant environs

Skills & Experience

• Previous experience in a processing plant or similar mining environment
• Understanding of plant operations and equipment functionality
• Ability to follow procedures and work autonomously when required
• Mechanical aptitude and practical problem-solving skills
• Relevant tickets, licences, or qualifications (desirable but not essential)

Key Attributes

• Strong commitment to safety and compliance
• Reliable, punctual, and accountable
• Team-oriented with a positive attitude
• Physically fit and capable of working in a mining environment
• Flexible and adaptable to rotating roster schedules

About Cobar

Cobar is a long-standing mining town in western New South Wales, known for its strong mining heritage and close-knit community. It offers all the essential amenities including supermarkets, gyms, cafes, a golf club, and sporting facilities. Regular flights and bus services connect Cobar to Dubbo and Sydney, making it a convenient hub for mining professionals working on rostered arrangements.

Pre-Employment Requirements

All candidates are required to successfully complete the following prior to mobilisation:

• Pre-employment Medical and Functional Assessment