If you are looking for a hands-on role in Australia’s thriving sugar and renewable energy sector, the Factory Assistant job in Australia at Wilmar Sugar & Renewables in Pioneer Mill is a rewarding opportunity. This role is designed for motivated individuals who want to gain practical skills in factory operations, maintenance, and production support. With on-the-job training and long-term career prospects, this is an excellent entry-level position in a global company committed to sustainability and innovation.
About Wilmar Sugar & Renewables – Part 1
Wilmar Sugar & Renewables is Australia’s largest manufacturer and exporter of raw sugar and ranks among the top 10 producers globally. The company operates eight sugar mills across Queensland, including Herbert, Burdekin, Proserpine, and Sarina regions. With more than 2,000 employees during the annual production season, Wilmar plays a vital role in Australia’s agricultural and manufacturing industries.
Beyond sugar production, Wilmar is also a leader in renewable energy. The company generates renewable electricity from biomass and is one of only two bioethanol producers in Australia. Their operations support the nation’s transition towards clean energy while maintaining strong ties with local farming communities.
About Wilmar Sugar & Renewables – Part 2
Wilmar Sugar & Renewables has built its reputation on innovation, sustainability, and quality. As Australia’s largest sugarcane grower, the company is also a key supplier of sustainable liquid fertiliser and stockfeed products. Their commitment to circular economy practices ensures that nothing goes to waste — from sugar and ethanol to renewable electricity and agricultural by-products.
For employees, Wilmar offers a supportive and inclusive work culture. Safety, teamwork, and professional growth are at the heart of their operations. A role at Wilmar is not just a job — it’s an opportunity to contribute to Australia’s renewable future while gaining valuable skills in production, maintenance, and industrial operations.
Job Summary – Part 1
The Factory Assistant position at Pioneer Mill is responsible for supporting production teams, operators, and coordinators to ensure smooth factory performance. This role is highly dynamic, requiring flexibility, teamwork, and a strong commitment to safety. Factory Assistants will work within production shift teams, help laboratory staff with sample collection, and assist maintenance crews with preventive and emergency work.
This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy practical, hands-on tasks in a factory setting. From operating mobile equipment to assisting with machinery servicing and lubrication, Factory Assistants play a key role in maintaining efficiency and reliability at the mill. On-the-job training is provided, making this an excellent entry-level role with career growth potential.
Job Summary – Part 2
Working under a rotating lifestyle shift roster (days and nights), the Factory Assistant supports a wide range of essential tasks. These include collecting bagasse, juice, and wastewater samples for lab analysis, assisting with steam cleaning of supply lines, and operating mobile plant machinery when required.
Factory Assistants are also responsible for reporting equipment faults and incidents using digital tools, contributing to preventive maintenance schedules, and ensuring all work is carried out safely. This role requires physical fitness, reliability, and a strong work ethic, with the added benefit of ongoing development opportunities at one of Australia’s most respected renewable companies.
Key Responsibilities
- Work safely and effectively as part of the production shift team
- Collect bagasse and wastewater samples for laboratory analysis
- Collect mill 2–5 crushing juice samples
- Conduct steam cleaning of juice supply lines when required
- Assist production team with operating mobile plant equipment
- Support preventive and emergency breakdown maintenance tasks
- Complete lubrication checks, servicing, and cleaning of factory equipment
- Report faults, damages, and incidents using iPad applications
- Undertake further training and skills development
- Contribute to factory reliability and continuous improvement initiatives
Required Qualifications and Skills
- Ability to work under a rotating shift roster (days and nights)
- HR licence (mandatory)
- Dogger certification
- Basic rigger qualification
- Non-slew crane certification
- Confined space training
- Working at heights certification
Highly desirable (training can be provided):
- Loader ticket
- Basic scaffold qualification
- Elevated Work Platform (EWP) licence
- Overhead gantry (OHG) crane skills
Ideal candidates will also be safety-conscious, self-motivated, and strong communicators with good organisational skills and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Work Environment & Culture
At Wilmar Sugar & Renewables, safety is the number one priority. Employees are encouraged to look after themselves and their colleagues, ensuring every task is completed safely. The work environment is fast-paced, team-driven, and supportive, with a strong focus on training and career progression. Factory Assistants work closely with operators, tradespeople, and coordinators, gaining valuable industry exposure.
Salary & Benefits
While the specific salary is competitive and aligned with industry standards, Wilmar Sugar & Renewables also offers:
- Ongoing training and career development
- Secure, long-term employment opportunities
- Eligibility for the Employee Referral Program
- The chance to work with Australia’s largest sugar and renewables company
- A supportive and safety-driven culture
Training & Growth Opportunities
This role comes with on-the-job training and opportunities to upskill through certifications in mobile plant operation, crane use, scaffolding, and more. With Wilmar’s commitment to employee development, Factory Assistants can progress into higher-level operational or technical roles over time.
Job Type & Contract Details
- Job Title: Factory Assistant
- Reference #: 49623
- Location: Pioneer Mill, Queensland, Australia
- Job Level: Entry-level
- Work Type: Permanent
- Expertise: Production
- Closing Date: 4 September 2025, 5:00 pm
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications online before 5:00 pm, Thursday, 4th September 2025. For further details about this role, applicants can contact Emily Dingle, People and Culture Coordinator, at 07 4782 3863.
Why Join Wilmar Sugar & Renewables?
Joining Wilmar means becoming part of a global leader in sugar, ethanol, and renewable energy. You’ll work with skilled teams, gain valuable industrial training, and contribute to projects that power homes and communities with clean energy. With strong career pathways, excellent safety standards, and a focus on sustainability, Wilmar Sugar & Renewables is the perfect place to build a long-term career.
FAQs
1. Do I need experience for this role?
No prior experience is required; training will be provided.
2. What is the work schedule?
You will work under a rotating lifestyle shift roster (days and nights).
3. Are certifications required?
Yes, HR licence, dogger, basic rigger, and confined space are required. Additional certifications can be gained on the job.
4. Is this a permanent role?
Yes, this is a permanent full-time role at Pioneer Mill.
5. What is the application deadline?
Applications close on Thursday, 4th September 2025, at 5:00 pm.
6. What kind of company is Wilmar?
Wilmar Sugar & Renewables is Australia’s largest sugar producer and a global leader in sugar and renewable energy.
7. Is career growth possible in this role?
Yes, the company provides training and pathways into higher-level roles.
