Shift Undermanager
Date: 9 Sept 2026
Location: Emerald, Queensland, Australia
Company: Kestrel Coal
About Us:
We are Kestrel - one of the world’s largest producing underground coking coal mines, delivering around 7 million tonnes of high-quality metallurgical coal annually to global steelmakers.
But what truly sets us apart is our culture. It’s not uncommon to walk down the breezeway and strike up a conversation with our CEO or Executive Leaders. We believe that great ideas come from anyone, and we empower our team members to bring their insights forward - knowing they’ll be heard, valued and that the path from idea to implementation is refreshingly short.
We strive to create an environment where everyone feels respected and supported. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting your career, at Kestrel, you’ll find opportunities to grow, contribute, and have meaningful impact.
With a mine life to 2033 and reserves to 2046, we’re planning for a future that’s safe, sustainable, and full of opportunity - for our industry and our people. We’re proud of where we’ve come from, and even more excited about what’s ahead.
About the role:
We have an exciting opportunity for a Shift Undermanager to join the Kestrel team. This is a key statutory leadership role supporting the safe, compliant and efficient delivery of underground mining operations across the appointed shift. Working closely with the Underground Mine Manager and operational teams, the role helps maintain compliance with current mining legislation and Kestrel’s Safety and Health Management System (SHMS), while providing clear direction and practical support to crews underground. As a person appointed under Section 60(8) of the Coal Mining Safety and Health Act, you will be responsible for the control and management of underground activities when the Underground Mine Manager is not in attendance at the mine.
Why you’ll love working here:
- Work-life balance, working a 7on-7off rotating day and night shift roster.
- Great pay and perks - Including competitive incentives and salary packaging.
- Health-first mindset - With our award-winning Health Program and subsidised private health insurance.
- Supported to grow - We’ll back your development through tailored programs like our award-winning ‘Unleashed’ Leadership Program.
- A culture that walks the talk - Respect, agility, commitment and collaborating as one, aren’t just values - they’re how we operate, every day.
In this role, you will support Kestrel by:
- Supporting the Underground Mine Manager to control and manage underground activities across your appointed shift.
- Maintaining statutory compliance with relevant legislation, site standards and Kestrel’s SHMS.
- Contributing to the development and delivery of shift and weekly operating plans.
- Providing visible and proactive safety leadership to support a Zero Harm work environment.
- Demonstrating strong personal discipline across the Mine Operating System (MOS), including planning, delivery, accountability and urgency.
- Ensuring work is executed safely, effectively and to the highest practical standard.
- Coaching and mentoring ERZ Controllers, Deputies and coal mine workers to build capability and consistency across the team.
About you:
- Hold a current Queensland 1st or 2nd Class Certificate of Competency (Undermanager), be working towards completion, or hold a relevant NSW mutual recognition qualification.
- Bring experience supervising large-scale longwall mining operations in an underground coal environment.
- Have proven leadership capability, with the confidence to make sound decisions and provide clear direction under operational pressure.
- Communicate openly and effectively with crews, peers, technical teams and site leaders.
- Be driven to build safe, capable and high-performing teams, with a practical focus on continuous improvement.
A Place Where You Can Be You:
At Kestrel, we’re building a workplace where everyone can thrive. Inclusion is active, and equity is intentional - not a KPI.
We celebrate people from all cultures, communities, and identities, and we’re committed to creating a safe, respectful, and supportive environment where you can be yourself.
We welcome applications from everyone - including First Nations people, women and candidates from culturally diverse backgrounds.
If you need adjustments or support through the application process, just let us know - we’re here to help.
How to apply:
Ready to take the next step? Hit the Apply Now link to send us your resume.
Got questions? Reach out to: recruitment@kestrelcoal.com
Applications close: 10 October 2026.
Please note: We may progress suitable candidates before the closing date – so don’t wait too long!
What to Expect from the Recruitment Process:
At Kestrel, we’re focused on building the right team – people who bring energy, integrity, and the skills to make a difference. Our recruitment process is designed to help both you and us make informed, confident decisions.
From your first enquiry to final offer, you’ll be supported by a dedicated in-house recruiter – someone who’s part of the Kestrel team and who understands the role and the workplace.
The process typically involves initial conversations, two-way interviews and a site visit so you can get a real feel for working at Kestrel. We also conduct pre-employment checks including criminal history screening, medical assessments, work rights and qualification verifications, and reference checks.
We’ll keep the process clear, respectful and timely – and we’re here to support you at every step.