Process Control Systems Engineer - Operations

Our culture

We are a joint venture between Tianqi Lithium Corporation and IGO Ltd. As pioneers in the Australian lithium industry, we've already achieved great things, including building the first battery-grade lithium hydroxide plant in Australia, paving the way for Australia to be a major player in the global transition to a clean energy future.

We’re looking for people who want to be a part of the industry of the future - people who work with purpose and urgency, take initiative, and rise to challenges. We're seeking individuals who empower others, embrace innovation, and want to work in an open and supportive environment, where teamwork and collaboration are valued. 

At TLEA, you’ll be part of a team that is excited to be involved in a world-class project that benefits not only the Western Australian community but the world.

About the role

Are you passionate about creating real impact through engineering excellence?

TLEA is currently inviting applications for a full-time Process Control Systems Engineer to join our team at the Kwinana refinery within our Operations. This role operates on a Monday to Friday roster and offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a dynamic and innovative workplace.
As the successful candidate, you will be responsible for the development, maintenance, and optimisation of instrumentation and control systems across our plant. Your work will be critical in ensuring operational efficiency and reliability.

We’re looking for someone who embodies our core values of distinction, pragmatism, honesty, tenacity, and innovation. This role is ideal for a technically minded, approachable, and action-oriented individual who thrives on problem-solving, meets tight deadlines with confidence, and maintains a strong focus on delivering solutions.

Role responsibilities

• Design and improve on engineering solutions to optimise performance, prevent operational & production delays, and minimise lifecycle costs of the Process Control System, instrumentation, and related infrastructure.
• Review and improve process control strategies.
• PID tuning.
• Alarm rationalisation.
• Updating and testing of control system software, firmware, and patches.
• Reporting.
• Configure and maintain the Process Control System, instrumentation, and related infrastructure.
• Implement changes according to the Management of Change processes.
• Configure and commission VSDs, DOLs, Network switches, instrumentation, and other related equipment.
• Analyse assets (PCS components) and predict maintenance requirements.
• Identify and assess risks using enterprise risk framework policies and procedures, develop and implement risk mitigation plans.
• Assist in fault finding and failure investigations, and the subsequent rectification work.
• Stay up to date on control system developments.
• Assist in developing electrical technicians within the control and instrumentation environment.

What you can bring

• Tertiary Engineering degree with professional experience in process control and instrumentation
• Good understanding of distributed control systems and control system architectures
• Extensive experience with PLC & SCADA programming (AB Studio 5000, AB FTView SE)
• Demonstrated ability to understand control philosophies and configuring the control system as per the functional requirements
• PID loop tuning on complex systems.
• Configuration and commissioning of field instrumentation and equipment (eg VSDs, DOLs, switches)
• Excellent problem solving and fault-finding skills
• Good understanding of Industrial protocols
• Excellent communication skills
• Highly adept at MS Office suite (especially Excel)
• Previous experience in chemical or mineral processing industry.
• Rockwell PlantPAx DCS
• Configuring and commissioning of Powerflex drives, E300 DOLs & Stratix switches
• Siemens TIA
• Robots (ABB, Kawasaki)
• Historians (FTHistorian, Influx, Osisoft Pi)
• Experience programming in VBA or similar (desirable).
• Networking, virtualisation, and server management (desirable).
• Communication protocols Modbus TCP, Modbus RTU, and EthernetIP, OPC (desirable).
• Cybersecurity exposure (desirable).
• Functional Safety (desirable).
• PowerBI (desirable).

What we offer

• Contribute to a green and sustainable industry of the future.
• Competitive salary with a performance-based discretionary bonus structure.
• Additional Superannuation.
• Rewards and recognition program.
• Long service leave option after 5 years (pro rata).
• Supportive colleagues committed to your success and well-being.
• Inclusive and diverse work environment.

Location

TLEA proudly acknowledges and the Whadjuk and Gnaala Karla Boodja people of the Noongar Nation, as the traditional custodians of the Kwinana area, where we operate our plant. 
Kwinana is 38 km from the Perth central business district, 20 km from City of Fremantle and just 7km from Rockingham. 

How do I apply?

To find out more about this unique opportunity, please submit your application by clicking the 'Apply' button. All applications and discussions will be kept strictly confidential.

Applicants are advised that the shortlisting and interview process may commence before the closing date.  

At Tianqi Lithium Energy Australia, we embrace and recognise the value of diversity. We are committed to providing a work environment where everyone is included, treated fairly and with respect. We welcome and encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds.