At SO4, we're not just mining a resource.
We're pioneering a new industry.Our mission is to produce world-class Sulphate of Potash (SOP), a premium potassium fertiliser that supports sustainable agriculture around the world.
Located at our Lake Way Operation in the Goldfields region of Western Australia, just 15 kilometres south of Wiluna, we have successfully delivered our first product and are now entering an exciting phase of operational growth and optimisation.This is a rare opportunity to join a company that is redefining how fertiliser minerals are produced in Australia.
Our operation combines large-scale brine extraction, evaporation pond management, salt harvesting and advanced processing in a way few operations globally can match.As we continue to grow, we're seeking exceptional people who are excited by innovation, thrive in complex operational environments and want to play a critical role in shaping the future of our business.Our values guide everything we do:People | Ownership | Nurture | Drive | SafetyWe are committed to creating a workplace built on integrity, accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement, while never compromising the safety of our people or the sustainability of our operations.ABOUT THE ROLEReporting to the Head of Site Operations and working an attractive 4:3 / 8:6 FIFO roster ex Perth, the Upstream Operations Manager is a pivotal leadership role responsible for the entire upstream operation that underpins SO4's production process.You will lead all upstream activities including:Brine production from borefields and trenchesOperation and optimisation of the evaporation pond networkPotassium (K) salt and halite harvesting operationsThis is far more than a traditional mining or processing leadership role.
You will oversee a highly specialised operation where hydrogeology, chemistry, metallurgy, mining, and large-scale water management intersect to create one of Australia's most fascinating resource environments.Leading a team of Operations Superintendents, Planning Engineers and Process Engineering specialists, you will work closely with Engineering, Resource Development, Commercial, Finance and Processing teams to ensure safe, reliable and efficient delivery of upstream production objectives.This is an outstanding opportunity for an experienced operational leader who enjoys solving complex technical challenges, developing high-performing teams and making a tangible impact on the success of a growing organisation.Key ResponsibilitiesYou will be responsible for:Leading all upstream operations with an unwavering focus on safety, performance and operational excellenceManaging mass balances,



pond inventories and energetic pond models to optimise crystallisation and brine movementOverseeing pumping systems, pipelines and hydraulic networks, including performance optimisation and troubleshootingManaging evaporation pond chemistry, saturation control and precipitation behaviour to maintain operational targetsDirecting paleochannel borefield operations, including groundwater management, grade control and leak detectionEnsuring compliance with the Groundwater Operating Strategy (GWOS)Supporting drilling campaigns, bore installations and future field development projectsLeading K-harvesting activities including planning, execution, material handling and operational reportingDeveloping blending strategies that deliver consistent plant feed quality and minimise contamination risksDriving QA/QC processes, sampling programs, data validation and technical reporting standardsDeveloping and maintaining operating procedures, SOPs and safe work instructionsDelivering accurate production, grade, pumping and cost analysis to support informed decision-makingActing as the site's Quarry Manager / Schedule 26 statutory appointeeDriving continuous improvement initiatives across upstream operationsBuilding a high-performance culture focused on accountability, capability development and operational excellenceABOUT YOUYou are a capable and influential leader who combines strong operational management experience with deep technical expertise.You thrive in complex operating environments, enjoy solving challenging problems and understand how to balance safety, people leadership and commercial outcomes.You bring a strong understanding of brine systems, borefield operations, evaporation ponds, salt harvesting and large-scale fluid management systems, together with the leadership capability to build and develop high-performing teams.To be successful, you will have:More than 10 years' experience in mining, process operations, chemical processing, salt production or related industriesTertiary qualifications in Engineering, Chemistry or a related discipline (highly regarded)A WA Quarry Manager's Certificate and the ability to fulfil Section 26 statutory requirementsDemonstrated experience managing pumping systems, pipeline networks,



hydraulics and brine transfer operationsStrong knowledge of groundwater behaviour, borefield operations, leak detection and grade controlExperience leading harvesting operations and developing plant feed blending strategiesProven capability analysing operational data and solving complex technical challengesExperience within mining or civil operations, ideally involving dewatering, material movement, water management or salt productionA strong commitment to safety, compliance, quality and continuous improvementHigh-level proficiency across Office 365, Pronto, Aconex and INXWHY JOIN SO4Opportunities like this are rare.You'll be joining a growing Australian resource company at a pivotal stage of its journey, with the chance to influence strategy, shape operational performance and leave a lasting impact on a unique operation.In return, we offer:Attractive 4:3 / 8:6 FIFO roster ex PerthCompetitive salary packageParticipation in the Short-Term Incentive Program (STIP)Genuine leadership influence and visibility across the businessA collaborative, supportive and values-driven cultureRegular social and team events8 weeks Paid Parental Leave, including return-to-work incentiveEmployee Assistance Program (EAP) and Wellness AppManager Assistance Program (MAP)Salary Packaging options including Novated Leasing, Electronic Devices, Education Expenses, FIFO Travel and Airport ParkingRetail and lifestyle discountsMost importantly, you'll have the opportunity to lead one of Australia's most distinctive upstream resource operations and help shape the future growth of SO4.Applicants must hold unrestricted Australian working rights and satisfy all site access requirements, including pre-employment medical assessment, drug and alcohol screening and National Police Clearance.SO4 celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace.
We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally diverse backgrounds and people living with disability.Unlock job insightsHirer responsiveness Salary match Number of applicantsYour application will include the following questions:Have you completed a qualification in engineering?
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📌 Upstream Operations Manager (Kalgoorlie - Boulder)
🏢 SO4
📍 Kalgoorlie - Boulder