Underground Operators

Kestrel Coal Pty Ltd; Emerald; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation support

Health program

Study assistance

Unleashed Leadership Program

Competitive pay and benefits

Job summary

Kestrel Coal Pty Ltd is seeking Underground Operators to join our high-performing team across Development and Longwall. This permanent role offers a 7/7 roster, accommodation support, and competitive pay with housing options and salary packaging.

We emphasise safety, positive culture, and opportunities to grow within a well‑established operation with a strong mine lifetime. Be part of a safety‑first environment backed by tailored development programs like our Unleashed Leadership Program and

Qualifications

• Experience (ideally 12+ months) in an underground coal environment as an Operator.
• Current Standard 11 (surface and underground) or willingness to obtain.
• A commitment to safety, ensuring a safe working environment for yourself and others.
• Great communication and interpersonal skills, essential for effective teamwork and collaboration.
• A demonstrated ability to contribute to a positive and safety-focussed workplace culture.

Responsibilities

• Work safely and efficiently across all assigned functions to support the achievement of production targets and operational requirements.
• Prepare, plan and execute daily work in a timely manner in line with approved weekly schedules.
• Complete daily shift reports, including outcomes of routine inspections, defects identified and/or repairs undertaken, hours worked on each task, and equipment condition, where required.
• Safely operate a range of machinery and equipment in accordance with site procedures and training.
• Demonstrate the willingness and capability to safely undertake labour-intensive tasks in an underground environment.
• Collaborate effectively with a skilled team of professionals to achieve production and project outcomes.
• Lead by example in safety by setting the benchmark for safe work practices, proactively identifying and mitigating risks, and contributing to site-wide safety standards.

Job description

We are Kestrel - one of the world’s largest producing underground coking coal mines, delivering around 7 million tonnes of high-quality metallurgical coal annually to global steelmakers.

But what truly sets us apart is our culture. It’s not uncommon to walk down the breezeway and strike up a conversation with our CEO or Executive Leaders. We believe that great ideas come from anyone, and we empower our team members to bring their insights forward - knowing they’ll be heard, valued and that the path from idea to implementation is refreshingly short.

We strive to create an environment where everyone feels respected and supported. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting your career, at Kestrel, you’ll find opportunities to grow, contribute, and have meaningful impact.

With a mine life to 2033 and reserves to 2046, we’re planning for a future that’s safe, sustainable, and full of opportunity - for our industry and our people. We’re proud of where we’ve come from, and even more excited about what’s ahead.

About the role:

We have recently upgraded and replaced our Longwall and Development equipment, as well as the majority of our Outbye assets. These enhancements build on the strengths of our previous equipment while incorporating the latest advancements in technology and performance. With top-tier equipment in place, we’re seeking talented individuals to join our high-performing team and help us achieve exceptional outcomes.

We're seeking interest from skilled and experienced Underground Operators to join the Kestrel team for positions across:

• Development
• Longwall

If you're looking for a permanent role where you can make a meaningful contribution to a well-established operation that values safety, fosters a positive culture, and has a proven track record of success, we want to hear from you!

Why you’ll love working here:

• A permanent role on a site with a strong future – long mine life and room to grow.
• 7/7 lifestyle roster - Real work-life balance that gives you time for what matters most.
• Accommodation support - Housing, camp accommodation or an allowance options may be available to support your living arrangements.
• Great pay and perks - Including competitive incentives, housing options, and salary packaging.
• Health-first mindset - With our award-winning Health Program and subsidised private health insurance.
• Supported to grow - We’ll back your development through tailored programs like our award-winning ‘Unleashed’ Leadership Program and study assistance.
• A culture that walks the talk - Respect, agility, commitment and collaborating as one, aren’t just values - they’re how we operate, every day.

As an Underground Operator, you will support Kestrel by:

• Work safely and efficiently across all assigned functions to support the achievement of production targets and operational requirements.
• Prepare, plan and execute daily work in a timely manner in line with approved weekly schedules.
• Complete daily shift reports, including outcomes of routine inspections, defects identified and/or repairs undertaken, hours worked on each task, and equipment condition, where required.
• Safely operate a range of machinery and equipment in accordance with site procedures and training.
• Demonstrate the willingness and capability to safely undertake labour-intensive tasks in an underground environment.
• Collaborate effectively with a skilled team of professionals to achieve production and project outcomes.
• Lead by example in safety by setting the benchmark for safe work practices, proactively identifying and mitigating risks, and contributing to site-wide safety standards.

About you:

• Prior experience (ideally 12+ months) in an underground coal environment as an Operator.
• Current Standard 11 (surface and underground) or willingness to obtain.
• A commitment to safety, ensuring a safe working environment for yourself and others.
• Great communication and interpersonal skills, essential for effective teamwork and collaboration.
• A demonstrated ability to contribute to a positive and safety-focussed workplace culture.

A Place Where You Can Be You:

At Kestrel, we’re building a workplace where everyone can thrive. Inclusion is active, and equity is intentional - not a KPI.

We celebrate people from all cultures, communities, and identities, and we’re committed to creating a safe, respectful, and supportive environment where you can be yourself.

We welcome applications from everyone - including First Nations people, women and candidates from culturally diverse backgrounds.

If you need adjustments or support through the application process, just let us know - we’re here to help.

What to Expect from the Recruitment Process:

At Kestrel, we’re focused on building the right team – people who bring energy, integrity, and the skills to make a difference. Our recruitment process is designed to help both you and us make informed, confident decisions.

From your first enquiry to final offer, you’ll be supported by a dedicated in-house recruiter – someone who’s part of the Kestrel team and who understands the role and the workplace.

The process typically involves initial conversations, two-way interviews and a site visit so you can get a real feel for working at Kestrel. We also conduct pre-employment checks including criminal history screening, medical assessments, work rights and qualification verifications, and reference checks.

We’ll keep the process clear, respectful and timely – and we’re here to support you at every step.