Upstream Operations Superintendent (Mining) in Preston

SO4 is on a mission to produce world‑class Sulphate of Potash (SOP). Our Lake Way asset is in the Goldfields region of Western Australia, 15 kms south of Wiluna. With our first product successfully delivered and operations ramping up, we are entering an exciting phase of growth.

People | Ownership | Nurture | Drive | Safety

We value integrity, accountability, teamwork and continuous improvement while ensuring the safety of our people and the sustainability of our operations.

About the Role

We are recruiting for an Upstream Operations Superintendent, an established role that provides support to the Upstream Operations Manager. This role is responsible for mining K salts for K fertilizer production, mining halite waste and executing other tasks essential for keeping the brine evaporation system on design. It includes managing both SO4 staff and contractors, including mobile equipment. The superintendent will drive operational excellence in order to achieve the operating targets efficiently, safely and in compliance with relevant regulations.

Role Scope & Responsibilities

• Oversee pond cell harvest planning, execution and reporting in alignment with the Ponds Cell Harvest Plan Checklist
• Direct heavy mobile equipment operations to support harvesting, salt movement and mining efficiency
• Implement cost‑effective mining and harvesting strategies to improve operational efficiency and reduce unit costs
• Supervise mining and harvesting contractors to ensure safe, timely and budget‑compliant execution of pumping and harvesting plans
• Manage all mining activities and budgets, ensuring cost control, contractor performance and alignment with operational strategy
• Monitor pond chemistry and maintain pond network quality in accordance with the dynamic pond model and Operations Philosophy
• Maintain robust QA/QC across mining operations, ensuring sampling accuracy, contamination prevention and consistent feed quality
• Lead and mentor mining and ponds operations teams, ensuring capability development and compliance with legislation and safe work practices
• Proactively manage operational issues, leading structured problem‑solving and root cause analysis to maintain production continuity
• Fulfil statutory responsibilities as Quarry Manager / Schedule 26 appointee, ensuring compliance with WHS Act and Mines Regulations
• Deliver accurate daily, weekly and monthly reporting on grade, pumping, production, costs and operational performance
• Drive continuous improvement across mining and harvesting operations, targeting efficiency, cost reduction and process optimisation

What You’ll Bring to the Role

We are looking for someone with strong capability in operating and managing surface mining and harvesting mobile equipment, supported by a Degree in Engineering, Construction or Geology (highly regarded) and 10+ years’ experience in mining or civil operations, ideally within potash or brine‑based environments.

To be Successful in the Role You Will Have

• WA Quarry Manager’s Certificate + Schedule 26 statutory competencies
• Proficiency in Office 365, Pronto, Aconex and INX (advanced user)
• Proven capability in budgeting, contractor management and operational reporting
• Experience leading diverse operational teams in remote or challenging environments
• Strong ability to interpret technical data, solve complex problems and make sound operational decisions
• A proactive, safety‑focused approach with a genuine commitment to continuous improvement
• The ability to build strong working relationships and communicate clearly across all levels

What We Offer You

Our culture is inclusive, friendly, and fun. We are passionate about our work and work hard to achieve our individual and team goals. We help each other out and share our knowledge.

• Permanent full‑time opportunity
• Healthy and competitive salary
• Eligibility to participate in the Short‑Term Incentive Program (STIP)
• FIFO ex Perth, short commute direct to site
• Social events
• 8 weeks of Paid Parental Leave, including a return‑to‑work incentive
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Wellness App
• Salary Packaging (Novated Lease Vehicles, Electronic Devices, Education Expenses, FIFO Travel and FIFO Airport Car Parking)
• Discounts to retail outlets

Equal Opportunity Employment

SO4 celebrates diversity and encourages applicants from culturally diverse backgrounds to apply, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from diverse cultural backgrounds and people with disabilities.