Refinery Operator Maintainer

Located 15km from the Townsville CBD, Sun Metals is one of the most technologically advanced zinc refineries in the world, producing Special High Grade Zinc metal, Zinc Alloy metal and by-products of Sulfuric Acid, Copper, Cadmium, and Zinc Ferrite.  Our process involves Roasting, Leaching, Purification, Electrolysis and Casting with sales to both domestic and international markets.

Our mission is to become the best zinc refinery in the world.  This means that we are (1) the safest; (2) the most environmentally responsible; and (3) the most competitive zinc refinery in the world.

Looking for a change away from your trade? Join Sun Metals as a Refinery Operator Maintainer!

At Sun Metals, Refinery Operator Maintainers get to apply their trade skills, knowledge and experience in a role that offers more than just day in day out hands-on trade work.  This is a position that blends fixed plant operational responsibility with refinery-based opportunities for personal and professional growth.

In this role, you’ll be responsible for the safe and efficient operation, cleaning, and maintenance of plant equipment to support balanced operations and meet production targets. You’ll work as part of a collaborative team on a continuous shift roster: 2 days, 2 nights, followed by 4 days off, giving you time to recharge and enjoy life outside of work in all of what beautiful Townsville & Nth Qld has to offer!

This is an ideal opportunity if you're seeking a shift away from a trade-based role while still leveraging your trade expertise and knowhow in an operational area. You'll also gain exposure to broader operational processes and have the chance to grow into leadership roles within a dynamic industrial environment.

Essential criteria

• Ability to complete multiple tasks with varying levels of priority.
• Ability to work within a team to achieve production targets without compromising safety and environmental responsibilities.
• Ability to work without supervision.
• Willing to learn new skills and adapt to new challenges.
• Demonstrates a positive and proactive approach and takes accountability for work performance.
• Effective written, oral and interpersonal communication skills.
• Computer literate.
• Physical capability to work in hot and/or dirty conditions, walk on uneven ground, climb ladders and enter confined spaces.
• Ability to work a continuous roster of two day shifts, two night shifts and four off.
• Maintain personal punctuality and reliability for work.
• Hold a nationally recognised trade qualification (e.g. Boilermaker, Diesel Fitter, Mechanic and Fitter & Turner).

Desirable Criteria

• Previous experience in refining, mining or heavy industry.
• Experience operating and maintaining fixed plant equipment (eg pumps, valves, conveyors).
• High Risk Work Licences such as Forklift (LF), Cabin Gantry Crane (CB) and Elevated Work Platform (WP) or remote Gantry Crane (LBG) qualification.

About Townsville

A thriving coastal port city, Townsville is the largest city in northern Australia and one of Australia’s fastest-growing regional centres. The region has a strong and diverse economic base including mining, mineral processing, agriculture, manufacturing, education, tourism, healthcare, government and defence. 

With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, World Heritage-listed national parks and lush tropical gardens, Townsville boasts spectacular natural landscapes and is a major gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, the Wet Tropics and the Queensland outback. 

Enjoy the relaxed lifestyle, with plenty of great attractions and amazing daytrips on offer, perfect for singles, couples, and families.

Applicants with relevant experience and skills should apply now.