Manager - Operations

Are you ready to take on a high-impact leadership role in a global, fast-paced industry? Nyrstar, a leader in metals mining and smelting, is looking for an experienced Manager - Operations to drive operational excellence at our Port Pirie smelter in South Australia.

Overview of the role

As the Manager - Operations, you will lead production at the Port Pirie smelter, overseeing the development and execution of strategies that deliver exceptional results. Reporting to the General Manager, you’ll guide teams to achieve production targets, ensure safety and environmental compliance, and manage large-scale projects, all while fostering a culture of operational excellence and continuous improvement. You’ll lead a multidisciplinary team through innovation and collaboration to deliver safe, efficient, and reliable operations. This is an opportunity to leave your mark at a globally significant site while developing your career within a forward-thinking organisation.

Key responsibilities:

• Develop and implement production strategies to consistently meet and exceed business goals.
• Provide safety leadership and promote a "zero harm" culture across all operations.
• Manage and optimise performance for production, maintenance, and asset reliability in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Drive stability in production processes, moving towards sustainability and statistical control.
• Oversee the planning and delivery of major capital projects and shutdowns, ensuring they are completed on time and on budget.
• Foster a motivated and high-performing team through coaching, leadership, and robust communication.
• Build relationships with suppliers, service providers, and the community to support smooth and impactful operations.
• Contribute to the site’s overall strategic direction, ensuring alignment with Nyrstar’s values and global vision.

About you:

You are an inspirational leader with the technical expertise and operational drive to navigate a fast-paced and complex environment. You’ll need:

• 10+ years of senior operational experience in production, preferably in metal smelting, refining, or heavy industry.
• A degree in Engineering (Chemical, Metallurgy, Mechanical, or Electrical) or equivalent experience.
• Proven success delivering results in production planning, safety, and project execution.
• Experience leading teams to deliver operational excellence while driving organisational change.
• Strong analytical, organisational, and decision-making skills.
• SAP or equivalent ERP system expertise.
• A commitment to fostering diversity, inclusion, and a "zero harm" culture.

What we offer:

At Nyrstar, we don’t just offer jobs – we build careers. You’ll be joining a collaborative team in a global company where innovation and continuous improvement drive everything we do.

From professional development opportunities to being part of an organisation that values safety, accountability, and teamwork, this is your chance to make an impact!

This role offers:

• A permanent, full-time leadership role within a stable and growing global company.
• 5 weeks annual leave

• Competitive salary package, with relocation assistance if needed (only 2.5 hrs from Adelaide)
• Fitness Passport discounted gym memberships
• Salary sacrifice novated car leasing
• Subsidised Dental Care & Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid parental leave
• Further education support

Ready to shape the future of global metals with Nyrstar? Apply Now to submit your resume and cover letter. For more information, contact us directly for a confidential discussion. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so don’t delay – apply today!

About Nyrstar

Nyrstar is an international producer of critical minerals and metals essential for a low carbon future. With a market leading position in zinc and lead, Nyrstar has mining, smelting and other operations located in Europe, the United States and Australia and employs approximately 4,000 people.

With the support of the Australian, South Australian and Tasmanian Governments, Nyrstar Australia is pursuing opportunities to develop new critical minerals products and distribution channels – repositioning the Australian business for the long term. Nyrstar’s operating business is wholly owned by Trafigura, one of the world’s leading independent commodity trading and supply chain logistics companies.

Visit www.nyrstar.com

Please note you must have unrestricted valid rights to work in Australia. Nyrstar is an equal opportunity employer and supports diversity within its workforce. Nyrstar Port Pirie’s Safety Policy requires clean shaven employees and is a non-smoking site. As a Major Hazard Facility that is subject to SafeWork SA regulations, you may be asked questions regarding your physical attributes to ensure regulatory compliance. Only applicants who progress to the next stage will be contacted. Thank you for your interest in applying for a position at Nyrstar.