Upstream Manager

LUKA RESOURCES; Eneabba; Sur place; AUD 180 000 - 240 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

Iluka Resources in Eneabba, WA, is seeking an experienced operations leader to head the upstream production function for the Cracking, Leaching and Purification (CLP) plant during commissioning, ramp-up and ongoing operations. You will build and lead a high-performing team, implement governance and drive safety and operational excellence.

Reporting to the Operations Manager, you will collaborate with engineering, maintenance and technical teams to resolve issues, optimise performance and embed

Description du poste

Join Australia’s first fully integrated rare earths refinery Site-based at Eneabba, Western Australia DIDO, BIBO or residential depending on location Iluka Resources is a leading global producer of critical minerals, zircon and high-grade titanium dioxide feedstocks. In partnership with the Australian Government, Iluka is developing Australia’s first fully integrated rare earths refinery at Eneabba in Western Australia’s Mid West. The refinery will produce both light and heavy separated rare earth oxides, supporting diversified global supply chains for minerals essential to defence, renewable energy, electric vehicles, robotics and advanced technologies.

About the role

Reporting to the Operations Manager, this is a rare opportunity to lead the upstream production function at one of Australia’s most significant new processing operations. You'll play a pivotal role in commissioning, ramping up and optimising the Cracking, Leaching and Purification (CLP) plant, while building a high-performing team and establishing the systems, culture and operational discipline that will underpin the long‑term success of the Eneabba Rare Earths Refinery.

Key responsibilities

• Leading the recruitment, development and performance of supervisors and operators
• Driving a strong safety culture and ensuring safe commissioning, start-up and operational practices
• Leading upstream production through commissioning, ramp‑up and ongoing operations
• Establishing practical operational governance systems, processes and performance frameworks
• Working across operations, maintenance, engineering and technical teams to solve problems and improve performance
• Supporting continuous improvement, debottlenecking initiatives and cost reduction opportunities
• Playing an active role in employee engagement and positive industrial relations outcomes
• Lead daily warehouse operations, including the receipt, storage and dispatch of materials

About you

• You are an experienced processing or refinery leader with a proven track record of leading large operational teams in complex processing environments.
• You bring strong people leadership skills, resilience and the ability to keep teams focused and engaged during periods of change and growth.
• Significant experience leading production teams within a refinery, chemical processing or similar heavy industry environment
• Strong commissioning and operational ramp-up experience
• A demonstrated ability to build high-performing teams and develop leaders
• Experience implementing operational systems, governance frameworks and continuous improvement initiatives
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement and problem‑solving skill
• A strong commitment to safety and operational excellence

What we offer

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

Applications close: 30 October 2026.

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

lluka 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.