Operator

Location: 

Blackwater, QLD, AU, 4717

Country:  AU
Date:  21 May 2026

Whitehaven Coal is proud to be the leading Australian ASX-listed producer of premium-quality coal. We currently operate four mines in NSW and we’re excited to grow our QLD operations via the announced acquisition of 100% of BMA’s Daunia and Blackwater coal mines in the Bowen Basin.

 

Our STRIVE Values connect us and define how we behave. Whitehaven Coal award, recognise and celebrate individuals and teams going above and beyond the requirements of their role to deliver excellent outcomes while demonstrating our values of SafetyTeamworkRespectIntegrityValue and Excellence.

Dragline Operator – Blackwater Mine: Operate the Best

Whitehaven Coal is seeking skilled Dragline Operators to join our production team at Blackwater Mine in Central Queensland.


About the Role

As a Dragline Operator, you will play a key role in the safe and efficient removal of overburden to support ongoing coal production at one of the largest and most advanced dragline operations in the Southern Hemisphere. You’ll work with a high‑performing crew, operating world‑class machinery in a dynamic 24/7 mining environment.


What You’ll Do

  • Safe Operation: Operate dragline equipment in accordance with site procedures, safety standards, and Queensland mining regulations.
  • Production Delivery: Execute digging sequences, maintain consistent cycle times, and support efficient strip mining to meet daily BCM targets.
  • Equipment Care: Complete pre‑start checks, monitor machine performance, and promptly report defects or hazards.
  • Teamwork: Work closely with dozer operators, supervisors, dispatch, and technical teams to ensure smooth pit progression.
  • Compliance: Uphold environmental and safety requirements while contributing to a strong zero‑harm culture.

 

What You’ll Bring

  • Experience: Proven competency operating large draglines (e.g., 8050, 8200, BE1370 or similar) in an open‑cut coal environment.
  • Safety Focus: A strong commitment to safe work practices and hazard awareness.
  • Technical Skill: Ability to follow dig plans, understand strip mining methods, and optimise cycle efficiency.
  • Team Contribution: Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a production crew.
  • Qualifications: Relevant RII competencies and the ability to meet site access and medical requirements.

 

Why Whitehaven Coal?

  • Scale: Work on one of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest dragline fleets.
  • Stability: Blackwater Mine offers a projected 50+ year mine life, providing long‑term job security.
  • Competitive Pay: Attractive wages, allowances, and benefits aligned with your skill and experience.
  • Career Pathways: Opportunities to progress into senior operator, trainer, or supervisory roles.

Why Whitehaven Coal?

  • Full Relocation Packages | 26 wks. Paid Parental Leave
  • $4k for successful employee referrals
  • Awards and recognition through our STRIVE initiative
  • Salary Sacrifice Opportunities


Whitehaven Coal is committed to increasing the representation of women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the workplace. We strive for an inclusive workplace that engages people from diverse backgrounds and welcomes diversity of gender, culture and experience.

Whitehaven Coal is working with the RSL Employment Program to support veterans and partners of current or former Defence members in finding meaningful and sustainable employment. If you would like assistance with your application, you can reach out to the program via the following link: https://www.rslqld.org/find-help/employment

 

Whitehaven Coal is an endorsed Circle Back Initiative Employer.

To be considered for this position you must have the right to work in Australia.

Reward. Opportunity. Recognition. Great Place to Work.