About Us
Wilmar Sugar Australia is part of Wilmar International, a leading global agribusiness with around 100,000 employees working across more than 30 countries and regions.
Across Australia and New Zealand, we operate two major business units, Sugar & Renewables and Sweeteners, employing 2,400+ people during peak/ seasonal operations with corporate offices in Melbourne, Brisbane, Townsville and Auckland.
As Australia’s largest raw sugar manufacturer and a top 10 global producer, Wilmar Sugar & Renewables runs eight sugar mills across North Queensland. We are also one of the nation’s largest generators of renewable electricity from biomass, a major producer of bioethanol, the largest sugarcane grower, and a key supplier of sustainable fertiliser and stockfeed.
About the Role:
As an Operations Engineer, you will work closely with key operational personnel to learn factory operations and develop plans, goals and operational strategies. You will contribute to the delivery of individual and team targets relating to milling performance, sugar recovery, factory availability and budget expectations, while supporting continuous improvement initiatives across the site.
In this role, you will work closely with field operators, the operations Superintendent and Manager, receiving regular feedback, structured performance reviews and ongoing support to develop your leadership capability. With clear pathways for career progression, this position is ideal for someone looking to grow their experience in operations management while building a long-term career in a performance-driven environment.
This position will be based at Inkerman Mill, located near Ayr in North Queensland. Ayr offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle, a strong sense of community and access to beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, providing an excellent balance between career opportunity and quality of life.
The team at Inkerman Mill is known for its open communication, strong working relationships and welcoming culture. Everyone works well together, creating a positive site environment where collaboration is encouraged and support is readily available. This makes the role particularly compelling for someone who values teamwork and a respectful, inclusive workplace.
Role Responsibilities:
Factory Optimisation: Provide engineering support in processes and operational targets to enhance factory performance and efficiencyPerformance Analysis: Analyse and report on factory performance, offering recommendations to improve crushing, sugar recovery, sugar quality plans, and financial outcomesContinuous Improvement: Identify and implement opportunities to enhance systems and processes, driving continuous improvement and operational efficiencyCapital Projects Support: Assist in identifying and developing capital projects that contribute to factory performance and long-term sustainabilityOperational Consistency: Support the standardisation of operational capabilities across the site to ensure consistency and best practices
About you:
We are looking for someone who brings:
Degree qualified in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related disciplineMinimum 5 years’ post-graduate experience in heavy industrial operations, including shift workStrong knowledge of sugar processing (highly desirable)Demonstrated expertise in safety practices, including HAZOP and defect eliminationWorking knowledge of the Sugar Industry Act and Sugar Industry Code of Practice, with a strong focus on regulatory compliance
Why work for Wilmar
We want people who take pride in their work, enjoy building connections, and value opportunities to grow their career in a dynamic, future-focused organisation.
As a Wilmar employee, you will enjoy:
Salary Sacrificing & Packaging – Options for super, novated leases and other eligible benefitsNovated Vehicle Leasing (Fleetplus) – Flexible, affordable lease and maintenance optionsSuperannuation – 14.5% super guarantee contribution, exclusive member benefits through the Wilmar Super PlanCorporate Discounts & Rewards – Savings on fuel, tech, travel, and major retail brandsHealth & Wellbeing – EAP, Medibank Corporate Cover, and eyewear discountsTravel & Lifestyle – Discounts on car hire, hotels, and flights to help you rechargeRecognition & Workplace Giving – Milestone service awards, Values Awards and Charity Giving options available
Please note that if you are moving forward in the process, Wilmar requires all employees to complete Drug & Alcohol testing and medical assessments.
Wilmar is an equal opportunity employer.
Business unit Corporate