Superintendent Gas Drainage
Date: 29 May 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 are seeking interest for the position of Gas Drainage Superintendent based at Kestrel Mine, located just outside of Emerald in Central Queensland.
Reporting to the Manager Technical Services, this role is responsible for providing leadership, governance and technical oversight of Kestrel’s gas drainage function across Underground to Inseam (UIS), Surface to Inseam (SIS) and Goaf Drainage systems.
Working closely with operational, technical and project teams, you will play a key role in ensuring gas drainage activities are aligned with the mine plan, statutory requirements and long-term operational objectives. This role presents an exciting opportunity for an experienced leader to influence the future direction of gas drainage at Kestrel, drive continuous improvement initiatives and contribute to the safe and efficient delivery of underground operations.
If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding leadership opportunity within a collaborative and high-performing environment, we want to hear from you.
Why you’ll love working here:
- Work-life balance, Monday to Friday with the option for a 9 day fortnight.
- 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:
- Providing leadership, strategic direction and governance of gas drainage systems across UIS, SIS and Goaf Drainage activities.
- Developing and executing gas drainage strategies to support safe, compliant and efficient underground operations aligned with the mine plan.
- Leading the planning, coordination and optimisation of gas drainage infrastructure, including future projects, relocations and system upgrades.
- Monitoring gas drainage performance, compliance obligations and reporting requirements to ensure adherence to statutory and site standards.
- Partnering closely with operational, technical and project stakeholders to integrate gas drainage requirements into production and development activities while minimising operational impacts.
- Leading continuous improvement initiatives focused on system reliability, drainage efficiency, risk reduction and operational performance.
- Providing leadership, mentoring and technical guidance to site personnel involved in gas drainage activities.
- Driving a strong safety culture through risk management, audits, investigations and compliance with the Safety and Health Management System.
About you:
- Bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering, Geology or related discipline.
- Extensive experience and proven performance in gas management operations within underground coal mining, including leadership experience.
- Strong technical knowledge of UIS, SIS and Goaf Drainage systems, associated legislation and operational best practices.
- Conduct drainage activities to maintain a safe environment for mine development and longwall operations.
- Minimise ventilation air methane emissions to ALARA through the application of effective gas drainage practices that enhance safety, operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.
- Manage competing priorities and influence key stakeholders.
- Demonstrated experience developing and implementing operational strategies and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving and decision-making capability within complex operational environments.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships across all levels of the business.
- S1, S2, S3 & G2 Supervisor qualifications or ability to obtain.
- Strong computer literacy including Microsoft Office Suite and data analysis/reporting systems.
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: 28 June 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.