
Site Based – Balranald, NSW
2 weeks on, 2 weeks off
Expression of Interest – Drill Operators (HDD)
About us
lluka Resources is a leading global producer of the critical minerals, zircon and high-grade titanium dioxide feedstocks (rutile and synthetic rutile). Iluka has also established a significant position in rare earth elements (rare earths). 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.
Our people are the foundation of our business and are vital to our success now and into the future. Iluka offers an empowering and inclusive work environment that is as diverse as the communities in which we operate.
About the location
Iluka’s Balranald operation is located in the Riverina district of south western New South Wales. The development is focused on the rutile and zircon rich West Balranald deposit, which also contains material quantities of rare earth minerals.
Owing to its relative depth (approximately 60 metres below surface), Iluka has over several years assessed the potential to develop West Balranald via a novel, remotely operated, underground mining (UGM) technology.
Iluka’s UGM technology is akin to keyhole surgery for the mining of critical minerals. This enables access to ore bodies previously thought uneconomic, with marked reductions in both environmental disturbance and carbon intensity relative to traditional mineral sands extraction techniques, which are themselves less impactful than other commodities.
The option exists to either reside within the local region, Drive in Drive out or Fly in Fly out from most capital cities.
About our opportunities
We welcome expressions of interest from experienced Drill Operators who wish to be considered for future opportunities within our Extraction team. In these roles, you will get exposure in deploying these platforms in conjunction with a technology not operated anywhere else. Thorough training will be delivered for our custom designed HK550 HDD rigs.
As HDD professionals, when compared to any other industry role, you will get greater exposure to mud processes and steering systems, live data analytics and even processing information. The breadth of professional development is unparalleled.
You can find out about our Balranald operation through the following link:
Balranald - Resource Development | Iluka Resources
About you
Experienced HDD Drill Operator
Maxi rig experience highly regarded
A certification in drilling, preferably a Horizontal Directional Drilling Certificate
Preferred High-Risk Work tickets; Dogging, Rigging, Vehicle Loading Crane (Fassi Crane), Telehandler
Our offer to you
Family friendly 2:2 roster
Be supported through an inclusive and collaborative culture
New camp facilities within close proximity to the operation, including two gyms, a tennis and basketball court
Opportunities for training and professional development
Up to 18 weeks paid parental leave
Competitive remuneration package including allowances and bonus structure
Company share matching scheme
Relocation assistance packages may be considered for the ideal candidate
We are committed to upholding our Business Values, supporting equal opportunities, gender equality and cultural diversity.
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, submit your expression of interest today!
As positions become available, we will review applications and contact suitable candidates.
Full working rights in Australia, with no visa conditions or restrictions, are required for you to be eligible to apply for this expression of interest.
“We respect and encourage diversity in a workforce that reflects our communities.”

Iluka is a global critical minerals company with expertise in exploration, development, mining, processing, marketing and rehabilitation.
The company’s objective is to deliver sustainable value.
With over 70 years’ industry experience, Iluka is a leading producer of zircon and the high grade titanium dioxide feedstocks rutile and synthetic rutile. Additionally, Iluka has also established a significant position in rare earth elements (rare earths).
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, Iluka’s high quality products are in increasing demand.
Iluka has projects and operations in Australia and a globally integrated marketing network. Exploration activities are conducted internationally and Iluka is actively engaged in the rehabilitation of previous activities in the United States and Australia.
Headquartered in Perth, Western Australia, Iluka is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX). Iluka holds a 20% stake in Deterra Royalties, the largest ASX-listed resources focused royalty company.