Drill Operator

PLS is delivering on its vision to be a leading global producer of lithium, a mineral critical to enabling the world’s transition to a more sustainably powered future.

As the owner and operator of the Pilgangoora Operation, the world’s largest independent hard-rock lithium mine, we are expanding fast, investing boldly, and building a global portfolio that positions us at the forefront of the energy transition.

Most recently, we acquired Latin Resources, adding the Colina Project in Brazil to our portfolio — strengthening our international footprint and creating new pathways for growth.

With more than 900 people employed globally, we’re building a future-focused business where talented people can create real impact. At PLS, our Values aren’t just words on a wall, they drive how we work, how we lead, and how we grow: Safety First. Great People. We Deliver. One Team. Shaping Tomorrow.

If you want to be part of an organisation that is ambitious, innovative and shaping the next era of battery minerals, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to join us.

WHAT PLS OFFERS

• 18 weeks parental leave for primary carers and 4 weeks for secondary carers
• Health and wellbeing allowance
• Quarterly short-term incentive bonus that recognises individual and business performance
• PLS employee share scheme
• Novated leasing through salary sacrifice
• Newly refurbished facilities at Pilgangoora including gym, tennis, pickleball and volleyball courts, sports oval, and scenic walking tracks
• Paid community leave
• Monthly employee recognition awards
• Access to PLS’ KidsCo School Holiday Program

THE OPPORTUNITY:

Reporting to the Drill Supervisor the Drill Operator is responsible the operation of Drilling & Ancillary equipment as directed in a safe, effective and efficient manner to meet operational requirements of the Drill & Blast Teams.

This is a permanent position, with an 8/6 (day shift), 7/7 (night shift) roster based at our Pilgangoora Operation.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Operate Drilling/Ancillary equipment within the shift to ensure optimum productivity in a safe and efficient manner.
• Contribute to and participate in a flexible and motivated production crew, committed to the achievement of quality production goals.
• Maintain occupational health and safety standards relevant to operations.
• Ensure occupational health and safety issues are considered in all aspects of duties performed.
• Maintain high standards of performance and adopt a proactive approach to occupational health and safety issues.
• Ensure compliance with statutory requirements and company policies and procedures.
• Report all observed safety incidents and hazards.
• Complete Take-5’s before starting each task or midway through a task if conditions change.
• Perform all tasks in a professional and diligent manner and always treat others with dignity, respect and fairness.
• Maintain good working relationships with superiors, peers and all internal as well as external clients, such as contractors, suppliers and service providers.
• Report all observed safety incidents and hazards.
• Assist Blast crew when required with on bench activities, Blast hole QA/QC, Blast guard duties.
• Check drilling activities are completed correctly and identify issues of poor-quality drilling early to ensure re-drills are completed.
• Striving to achieve a positive workplace culture that reflects our Values.
• Ensure accurate hole alignment and spacing to meet blasting requirements.
• Monitor drilling progress and adjust techniques as necessary to optimise efficiency.
• Operate water cart equipment to provide water supply for drill rigs, ensuring dust suppression.

ABOUT YOU:

• 2 years’ operating experience with drilling and blasting equipment in a large open pit mining operation.
• Self-motivated and disciplined.
• Flexibility.
• Sound communication skills.

SUPPORTING A DIVERSE WORKFORCE

PLS is committed to building and maintaining an inclusive and diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we operate. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and provide a recruitment process that is fair, equitable and accessible for all.

We encourage female candidates and First Nations peoples to apply. 

OUR RECRUITMENT PROCESS

As part of our recruitment process, there are several checks which may be conducted including police / criminal background checks, medical, drug and alcohol testing, due diligence checks, right to work checks, and/or reference checks.

We respectfully request agencies not to forward unsolicited resumes unless requested.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY 

PLS respectfully acknowledges the Nyamal and Kariyarra People of the Pilbara, and the Whadjuk Noongar People of the Perth region who are the traditional owners and first people of these lands. We would like to pay respect to the Elders past, and present and emerging for they hold the memories, the traditions, the culture and hopes of the Nyamal, Kariyarra and Whadjuk Noongar Peoples. 

If you are interested in learning more about PLS or registering for future opportunities, please visit our website  www.pls.com.