Job Description

R&D; Operations Technician – Clean Steel Technology

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Job Openings R&D; Operations Technician – Clean Steel Technology

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About the job R&D; Operations Technician – Clean Steel Technology

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At Newkey Consulting, people are at the heart of everything we do. By partnering with purpose-driven organisations, we're proud to support meaningful careers and contribute to a more sustainable future.

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THE ROLE

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Newkey Consulting is partnering with an innovative technology company developing next-generation zero-emissions smelting solutions for the metals and mining industry. Based in Melbourne, this role offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of sustainable manufacturing and industrial decarbonisation.

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As an R&D; Operations Technician, you will support the commissioning and operation of a research smelting facility focused on developing and scaling breakthrough metallurgical technologies. Working alongside engineers and researchers, you will play a hands‐on role in operating pilot equipment, collecting process data, and supporting experimental trials that contribute to cleaner steel production.

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This role will involve rostered shift work during trial campaigns when the R&D; smelter operates continuously.

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KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

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- Operate the R&D; smelter during scheduled trial runs in accordance with trial plans
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- Monitor process inputs and outputs while recording operational observations and data
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- Assist with equipment setup, cleaning, and maintenance activities
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- Work with trades and engineers to prepare equipment for trials and implement process improvements
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- Support installation and commissioning of new laboratory and testing infrastructure
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- Assist with development of customised testing and sample collection methods
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- Contribute to safety documentation including risk assessments and Job Safety Analyses
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- Maintain accurate records of trials, experimental data, and project activities
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- Assist in maintaining safe operating procedures and environmental standards
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ABOUT YOU

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You are a practical, detail-oriented technician or engineer who enjoys working in hands‐on technical environments and contributing to innovative research projects.

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- Certificate III or IV in Mechanical Engineering, Process Manufacturing, or a related trade qualification; or
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- A degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Science, Physics, Chemistry, or similar
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- At least two years of experience in roles such as plant operator, maintenance technician, technical assistant, research assistant, or graduate engineer
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- Solid problem-solving ability and attention to detail when collecting and analysing data
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- Confidence using spreadsheets and basic data analysis tools
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- A collaborative mindset and the ability to work in a high-performing team
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Highly regarded:

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- Experience working in smelting, furnace operations, or steel processing environments
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- Knowledge of hazardous area safety and industrial safety systems
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- Exposure to statistical or process data analysis
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- Prior experience working on rotating shift patterns
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WHY JOIN?

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- Work on cutting‐edge technology enabling zero-emissions steel production
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- Join a mission‐driven organisation tackling global climate challenges
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- Be part of a collaborative R&D; team building new industrial solutions
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- Gain exposure to innovative metallurgical processes and pilot plant operations
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- Competitive salary based on experience
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At Newkey Consulting, we are committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring everyone is valued, respected, and empowered. We put people first.

📌 R&D Operations Technician - Clean Steel Technology (Victoria)
🏢 NewKey Consulting
📍 Victoria