Upstream Manager

Iluka Resources Ltd; Eneabba; On-site; AUD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Iluka Resources Ltd. at Eneabba, WA, seeks an experienced Operations Manager to lead the upstream production function of the Cracking, Leaching and Purification (CLP) plant.

You will build a high-performing team, drive commissioning, ramp-up and ongoing operations, and establish governance and performance frameworks to support long-term refinery success. You will collaborate across operations, maintenance, and engineering, champion safety, and deliver continuous improvement, cost reductions and

Qualifications

• Significant experience leading production teams within refinery, chemical processing or similar heavy industry.
• Strong commissioning and ramp-up capabilities during start-up phases.
• Proven ability to build high-performing teams and develop leaders.
• Experience implementing governance frameworks and continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Lead recruitment, development and performance of supervisors and operators.
• Drive safety culture and oversee commissioning, start-up and operations.
• Manage upstream production through commissioning, ramp-up and ongoing operations.
• Establish governance systems, processes and performance frameworks.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, engineering and technical teams to solve problems and improve performance.
• Identify and drive cost-reduction and debottlenecking opportunities.
• Support employee engagement and positive industrial relations outcomes.
• Oversee daily warehouse operations including receipt, storage and dispatch of materials.

Skills

People leadership

Safety culture

Commissioning

Operational ramp-up

Governance & systems

Problem solving

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Job description

• 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 include:

• 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.”