Technician, Driller

Workplace Type: Onsite

Newmont produces metals the world needs - safely, responsibly and with care for people, communities and the environment. With a 100+ year history, we continue to shape the future of mining through innovation and strong operational performance. By joining our inclusive, world-class team, you can help shape the future of mining and make a meaningful difference.
  Our Lihir Operation, located on the beautiful island of Niolam, approximately 800km north of Papua New Guinea's capital, Port Moresby, is one of the world’s largest gold mines. Set within a geothermically active, extinct volcanic crater, Lihir operates an open-pit mine producing refractory ore, which undergoes pressure oxidation and conventional leaching to recover gold. Our workforce includes both residential and commute rosters, creating a diverse and dynamic team. Lihir offers a range of recreational facilities, including a gym, sports club, restaurant, bar, swimming pool, tennis and squash courts, and a 9-hole golf course. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the Lihir fishing and boating clubs provide access to pristine waters and beaches, while our onsite deli and café serve fresh local and imported produce, barista-made coffee, and freshly baked goods.   We are proud to work closely with the local Lihirian community and value its vibrant culture. Through initiatives like our School to Mine program, we offer meaningful employment, training, and development opportunities for Lihirian men and women, as well as scholarships and vocational apprenticeships. We also partner with the New Ireland Province to ensure economic benefits flow directly to the community, strengthening our commitment to sustainable development and positive local impact.

Purpose

We are seeking experienced and safety-focused Technician Drillers to join our Drill & Blast team at Lihir Operations, Papua New Guinea. This role is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of production drilling equipment to support mine production targets while upholding Newmont's commitment to Zero Harm and operational excellence.

Essential Duties

- Safely operate production drill fleets to achieve production targets.
- Conduct pre-start inspections and report equipment defects.
- Comply with Newmont Safety Systems, SOPs and PNG mining regulations.
- Complete Operator Critical Control Checks before high-risk tasks.
- Report hazards, unsafe conditions and geotechnical risks.
- Ensure drilling is completed to approved designs and specifications.

Training & Experience

- Valid PNG Class 6 Driver's Licence (preferred but not mandatory).
- Competency operating production drill rigs, including D65 and Pit Viper drill fleets.
- Minimum 3 years' experience operating production drills within a large-scale surface mining environment.
- Strong understanding of rotary and hammer drilling principles.
- Ability to interpret drilling plans, survey designs and mine production requirements.
- Practical troubleshooting skills and sound mechanical aptitude.
- Demonstrated commitment to safety, teamwork and operational discipline.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively

Working Conditions

Working on a 28/14 roster

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