Principal Advisor

• Drive Hydrocarbon Compliance | Process Optimisation | E2E Project Management
• Chemical Engineer | Site & Corporate Interactions | Train Operational Excellence
• Permanent | On Site | Full Time | Supportive Team | Mackay | Australian Owned

Everybody knows a JJ's Truck when they see one . . . our iconic green and gold fleet head out rain or shine for collections in your area.

But did you know we have 23 divisions, 135 sites nationally, employ nearly 3000 people and operate a fleet of over 2300

We do more than collect the bin from your street we also; convert waste into clean energy, divert food waste from landfill and convert to compost, manufacture customised waste management equipment, asbestos removal, refine and recycle oil, manage and maintain our fleet inhouse and have our own bespoke technology systems.

Our teams include Drivers/Operators, Heavy Vehicle Mechanics, Customer Service, Operations, Finance, IT/Digital, Environment, Engineering, Industrial Chemists, Safety, Administration and much more . . .

With so much opportunity, what is your career path?

THE ROLE

We're seeking a highly skilled and hands-on process engineering professional to lead and advise on hydrocarbon compliance, process optimisation, and capital project delivery across our operations. This role blends deep technical expertise with strong commercial acumen, partnering with stakeholders across the business to ensure operations are safe, compliant, and delivering measurable value.

You'll have a strong presence in the field, directly influencing operational efficiency, infrastructure enhancements, and the financial performance of our hydrocarbon operations.

This is a permanent role, based at our Mackay depot.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Maintain and implement JJ's Hydrocarbon Compliance Framework in line with AS1940, Dangerous Goods legislation, and company standards.
• Build strong relationships with senior managers and stakeholders, offering pragmatic, solutions-focused advice to support safe and compliant operations.
• Lead capital projects from feasibility through to commissioning and handover, managing budgets, schedules, contractor performance, and risk.
• Operate and optimise hydrocarbon processing systems, including oil-water separation, filtration, and treatment processes.
• Identify and implement process improvements to boost recovery rates, reduce costs, and optimise infrastructure.
• Deliver operator training and lead "train the trainer" programs.
• Supervise site works, issue high risk work permits, and ensure activities are carried out safely and in compliance with legislation and best practice.

ABOUT YOU

• Degree in Chemical or Process Engineering.
• Experience delivering capital projects in industrial, chemical, or waste environments.
• Strong understanding of chemical treatment systems, oil-water separation, and filtration processes.
• Proactive and hands-on, with a strong on-site presence to oversee and support operations.
• Proven ability to manage CAPEX project budgets, schedules, and contractors.
• Proficiency in engineering tools such as AutoCAD and P&ID development.
• Practical experience leading commissioning activities and operator training.
• Strong knowledge of Australian Engineering Standards (AS1940) and Dangerous Goods requirements.
• Highly articulate communicator, confident engaging with stakeholders at all levels.
• Commercially astute with the ability to assess operational decisions in terms of business impact.
• Willingness to travel as required.

BENEFITS

We appreciate there is more to life than work, we provide a variety of work options to ensure the job gets done; with competitive remuneration and a range of benefits, regardless of your role or location including:

• The stability of a national, Australian family owned and operated business with over 90 years' experience
• Attractive Salary + Car Allowance
• Work/life balance
• Essential services industry – job stability
• Full-time, permanent role
• Corporate Fitness - Fitness Passport
• The support of an experienced and capable leadership team
• Introductory and ongoing training
• Health-fund discounts
• Salary sacrificing and novated leasing
• Banking partnerships – including financial, budgeting and mortgage advice
• Discounts at over 100 retailers (including groceries and fuel)
• Car servicing, parts and accessories discounts – plus new car discounts

NEXT STEPS

Interested applicants should APPLY NOW

Depending on the role, the recruitment process may vary slightly; this may include a phone interview, face-to-face interview, skills-based assessment, pre-employment medical and of course, an opportunity to meet the team.

To view our other vacancies or more information about the role go to: 

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Established in 1932, JJ's Waste & Recycling (formerly J.J. Richards & Sons Pty Ltd) is Australia's largest, family-owned and operated waste management company.

From humble beginnings as a small family business, our team has grown across Australia, NZ & the US, and we're passionate about effective waste management.

With a dynamic attitude that values our people, their safety and the environment. We strive for an innovative, collaborative, and high-performance culture that celebrates the contribution of every employee.

No agencies please, we've got this one covered  Unsolicited communication will result in the forfeiture of any engagement or partnership.