Plant Operations & Project Manager – Brisbane (Yatala)

About Pelleton Renewables

Pelleton Renewables is a climate tech start-up and leader in biomass and bio-waste management technology. We solve the biggest issues of the waste crisis.

We use an innovative proprietary, patented, and cost-effective chemical desiccation process that breaks away from the conventional heating, filtering, and centrifugal water removal methods in waste management and recycling processes, advancing sustainability. (www.pelletonrenewables.com)

About the Role

We are looking for a Plant Operations & Project Manager to lead day-to-day operations at our Yatala facility and support customer projects. This role combines plant management, process optimisation, and client project delivery. You’ll run the demonstration plant, ensure safety and quality, liaise with clients and partners, and train new hires as we scale.

Also, you will be responsible to further develop the technical solution and the R&D strategy for the overall company. This is a unique opportunity to work on the latest technology in bioenergy and have a positive impact and contribution on the decarbonization journey to a net zero society.

Key Responsibilities

1) Demonstration Plant Operations & Lab Work

· Process client waste materials into usable pellets (fuel/fertiliser), ensuring efficiency and quality.

· Oversee production runs, throughput, and process integrity.

· Operate laboratory equipment to test waste streams and outputs.

· Run proof-of-concept experiments on feedstock samples.

· Collect and log all data from the test work.

2) R&D and Innovation

· Develop R&D strategy in alignment with strategic priorities of the company

· Work out innovation road map addressing future customer needs

· Derive and propose CAPEX budget

3) Process Engineering & Quality Control

· Work with engineering teams on design, commissioning, and improvement of process equipment.

· Maintain and troubleshoot machinery to ensure smooth operations.

· Work with engineering teams to propose equipment and modifications to meet customer site requirements.

· Implement KPIs and quality control procedures.

4) Project Management & Client Interface

· Deliver customer projects on time and budget, liaising with EPCs, suppliers, and subcontractors.

· Support installation and commissioning of customer plants.

· Train client employees on plant operations.

· Coach and train Pelleton’s junior hires.

Who We’re Looking For

Must have qualities

· 2–5 years in process/plant engineering or project management in waste-processing, bioenergy, or heavy industry.

· Track record of scaling lab trials to pilot/commercial plants, including commissioning and troubleshooting.

· Strong project management skills with customer-facing experience.

· Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, or Environmental Engineering.

· Practical, “tool-in-hand” mindset suited to a fast-moving start-up.

· Clear communicator, able to lead small teams and translate technical data for clients/regulators.

· Authorised to work in Australia

· Current Australian driver’s licence; forklift licence is a plus.

· Knowledge of WHS Act 2011 and EPA licensing; familiarity with ISO 9001/14001/45001 systems.

Good to have

· Experience with lab/plant equipment (moisture analysers, pellet extruders, dryers, data-logging, Excel/Power BI).

· Ability to read/create P&IDs; basic CAD a plus.

· Passion for Australia’s net-zero journey and interest in sharing upside through our Employee Participation Plan (EPP).

What We Offer

· The chance to lead operations on groundbreaking climate technology.

· A role with both technical depth and client-facing impact.

· Competitive package plus Employee Participation Plan (EPP).

If you’re excited by the idea of tackling real-world climate challenges, supporting strategic growth and the development of the company, we’d love to hear from you!

⚡ To be prioritised and move faster in the process, send your CV + cover letter to [email protected] with Plant Operations & Project Manager in the email title.