Inspector of Coal Mines Mechanical (Underground)

Be part of the department that works to protect, support and develop NSW primary industries, mining sector and regional communities.

• Permanent ongoing opportunity
• Location: Maitland preferred; however other DPIRD office locations will also be considered 
• Salary ranges from $209,268.00 to $242,196.00 + super & leave loading 

About the Role                                                                                      

As an Inspector of Coal Mines Mechanical (Underground) with NSW Resources within the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, you will play a critical role in safeguarding the health and safety of workers across the state’s coal mining sector. You will lead inspections, investigations and compliance activities, applying your technical expertise to assess risk management systems and influence improved safety outcomes. This is a dynamic, field-based role where your decisions have real impact, from responding to incidents and enforcing legislation to shaping industry practices through education and engagement.

You will work at the forefront of a complex and evolving industry, building trusted relationships with operators, workers and stakeholders while navigating challenging and sensitive situations. Your ability to interpret legislation, apply sound judgement and communicate clearly will support safer mining operations and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement across the sector. Learn more here and here.

About You

We are seeking experienced and capable professionals who are motivated to make a meaningful difference in mine safety and bring both technical expertise and strong interpersonal capability to the role.

As our ideal candidate, you will bring:

• Demonstrated experience in underground coal mining operations, with strong knowledge of relevant legislation and risk management practices
• Ability to assess complex systems, investigate incidents and make sound, evidence-based decisions in high pressure environments
• Confidence to engage, influence and negotiate with a wide range of stakeholders, including in challenging or sensitive situations
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate technical information clearly for diverse audiences and produce high quality reports
• Commitment to integrity, professionalism and continuous learning, with a proactive approach to improving safety outcomes
• The ability to travel state-wide regularly

You will be someone who thrives in a role that balances autonomy with accountability, is comfortable working in the field including outside standard hours, and is driven by a genuine commitment to protecting workers and strengthening the safety culture of the NSW mining industry

Essential Requirements

• A person will only be appointed as an inspector under section 18(2)(a) of the Work Health and Safety (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Act 2013, and in accordance with the Resources Regulator’s policy on qualifications of mine safety inspectors:
• For a person who is to be an inspector of coal mines mechanical - the qualifications required to be nominated to exercise the statutory function of mechanical engineering manager at the type of mine to which the person’s inspections will relate, or qualifications (being knowledge, skills and adequate experience in mining operations) that the Chief Inspector determines to be equivalent to those qualifications.
• Must be able to work on weekends and backshifts and respond to incidents out of normal business hours on a rostered basis.
• Hold and maintain a current Class C driver licence.
• Compliance with pre-employment probity screening is mandatory and a condition of engagement.
• Compliance with the Resources Regulator Integrity Clearance policy is mandatory, and a condition of engagement for staff engaged after 3 December 2019
• Compliance with the Resources Regulator Pecuniary Interests in the Regulated Sector policy is mandatory
• Appointment and ongoing assignment is subject to the satisfactory participation in ongoing health screening

Should you require further information about the role please contact the hiring manager, Dan Howard – Principal Inspector Metals & Extractives via dan.howard@dpird.nsw.gov.au or on 0400 111 392. You can also view the role description.

Who We Are

NSW Resources, a division of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, is responsible for the strategic management, regulation, and sustainable development of New South Wales' mineral and energy resources. We support safe, responsible exploration and mining, working closely with communities, landholders, and industry stakeholders to balance economic growth with environmental protection. 

Our main activities include:

• regulating exploration and mining through licensing, compliance and enforcement
• enforcing safety regulations to ensure the safety of workers in the industry
• developing policies for responsible and sustainable resource use
• managing geoscientific data and geological mapping via the Geological Survey of NSW
• supporting investment and economic development in the resources sector
• overseeing mine rehabilitation
• engaging with communities to promote transparency and land access collaboration.

NSW Resources comprises of: 

• Assessments and Systems
• Business Operations and Programs
• Resources Regulator
• Strategy, Performance and Industry Development
• Geological Survey of NSW

Why Join Us?

At DPIRD, we’re committed to protecting and growing NSW’s primary industries while supporting regional communities. When you join us, you’ll:

• Work on meaningful projects that shape the future of agriculture and biosecurity.
• Enjoy flexible work arrangements and the option to work from regional locations.
• Access professional development opportunities to grow your career.
• Be part of a collaborative, inclusive team that values diversity and innovation.

To Apply

Applying is easy! Please apply via our online portal and submit:

• A CV (maximum 5 pages)
• A cover letter (maximum 2 pages) Tell us how your experience and skills make you a great fit for this role.

Applications close Thursday, 25^th June at 11:55pm AEST.

What to Expect Next  

After applying:

• You’ll receive a confirmation email
• We’ll review all applications once the ad closes
• If shortlisted, you may be invited to interview (in person or Microsoft Teams video)
• Further assessments will follow (e.g. writing task, skills test, psychometric test)
• Reference checks will be completed for final candidates 
• The preferred candidate for this role may be required to undergo reference checks, a national police check, bankruptcy check, health assessment and/or other assessments as required.
• A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same type that may arise within the next 18 months. 

About us – together, we are DPIRD  

The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) protects, supports and develops primary industries and regional economies.  

Collectively we support strong and sustainable agriculture, forestry, fishing and mining industries, and regional economies. We actively manage our natural assets: our lands and soils, minerals, waterways and oceans, vegetation and forests.  

The department brings together:  

• Local Land Services  
• NSW Resources  
• Agriculture and Biosecurity  
• Fisheries and Forestry  
• Regional Development and Delivery.  

We have skilled and dedicated teams working in 200 locations across regional NSW. With the majority of the DPIRD team living and working in regional NSW, we are embedded in the regions we serve. Learn more about the benefits of joining our diverse and talented DPIRD team.  

At DPIRD, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds – including, but not limited to, gender, age, ethnicity, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation.  

DPIRD is a proud Disability Confident Recruiter, Family Inclusive Employer and Carer Friendly Employer

We are committed to ensuring every stage of the recruitment process is accessible and free from barriers. If you require adjustments or information in an alternative format to participate, please contact talent.advisory@dpird.nsw.gov.au or the hiring manager listed for a confidential discussion.  

We also understand that work is just one part of life. Our Family Inclusive Employer and Carers + Employers Accreditations reflect our commitment to supporting employees to balance work and family responsibilities.