As the project transitions from construction into commissioning, they are seeking an experienced Operations Manager (Owner’s Representative) to play a key role in establishing operational governance and driving performance from day one.
About the Role
This is a site-based position in Townsville, working at the centre of a brand-new processing facility as it moves toward commissioning (starting July).
Acting as the Owner’s Representative, you will oversee the third-party operator, ensuring safe, reliable, and repeatable operations while building the operational framework from the ground up.
This is a highly autonomous role in a greenfield/start-up environment, where the initial focus will be understanding the plant, its systems, and building strong stakeholder and supplier relationships ahead of full operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Represent the asset owner on-site, overseeing operator performance
- Establish governance, assurance frameworks, and reporting structures
- Support commissioning and early operations readiness
- Drive performance through KPIs and structured operational routines
- Oversee safety systems and critical controls
- Manage operational change (MOC) and asset integrity
- Build and manage relationships with contractors, suppliers, and stakeholders
- Support commercial activities including contracts and service delivery
About You
- Background in mineral processing, mining, or industrial processing environments
- Experience in commissioning, start-up, or early operations
- Strong understanding of operational governance, MOC, and asset management
- Safety-focused with experience in high-risk industrial environments
- Strong stakeholder engagement skills across multiple parties
- Able to operate in a highly ambiguous, first-of-its-kind environment
What’s on Offer
- Opportunity to shape a brand-new processing facility from commissioning phase
- Site-based leadership role with strong autonomy and influence
- Potential relocation support available for interstate candidates
- 38-hour work week (Monday–Friday)
- AO8 Level - Approx. $100/hr + super
- Long-term project with strong government backing
Apply Now
Submit your resume via the “Apply” function. For a confidential discussion about the role, please feel free to reach out to Max Brown on Max.Brown@Chandlermacleod.com or 07 3003 7710.
At Chandler Macleod, we are committed to fostering a diverse workforce where everyone is welcome. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, women, neurodiverse, people living with a disability and the LGBTIQA+ community.
You can read more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion at https://www.chandlermacleod.com/diversity-and-inclusion.
