Principal Approvals Specialist
Greenbushes Lithium Operation
Full Time Position
Lithium plays a critical role in the transition to clean energy, and Talison Lithium is the world’s leading lithium minerals producer with the largest high-grade ore body in the world.
This is an opportunity to lead approvals for Australia's largest lithium mining operation, supporting major expansions and projects that will help meet growing global demand for critical minerals - join us and be a part of the transition.
About the Role
Reporting to the Approvals Manager, the successful candidate will provide technical leadership in the planning, coordination and delivery of complex regulatory approvals that support Talison Lithium's current operations, major capital projects and future growth strategy at the Greenbushes Lithium Operation.
As the Principal Approvals Specialist, you will play a pivotal role in enabling the sustainable development of one of the world's leading lithium assets. You will lead environmental and mining approvals, coordinate multidisciplinary technical studies, build strong relationships with regulators and provide strategic advice across the business.
Working across a diverse portfolio of operational and project initiatives, you will influence key business decisions, shape approvals and regulatory strategy and drive long-term business success. This high-impact role offers the opportunity to influence policy, practice and service delivery while supporting the continued growth of a globally significant resource operation.
This role offers flexibility to be based at our Greenbushes operation or Perth office, with regular travel to site to maintain strong engagement with operations and key stakeholders.
Responsibilities include:
- Lead the planning, coordination and delivery of complex environmental and mining approvals to support Talison's operational, project and growth objectives
- Develop and implement approvals strategies for new projects and operational changes, including the management of multidisciplinary technical studies and impact assessments
- Lead approvals under the Environmental Protection Act, Mining Act and associated Commonwealth and State legislation supporting major operational and expansion projects.
- Prepare and oversee regulatory submissions while building strong relationships with regulators, government agencies and industry stakeholders to support efficient approvals outcomes
- Provide strategic regulatory and approvals advice to senior leadership and influence major investment and operational decisions
- Mentor and coach Approvals Specialists while providing technical leadership across multidisciplinary project teams.Lead engagement and collaboration across the business and with key external stakeholders, including regulators, government agencies, Traditional Owners and community groups, to support approvals strategy, project delivery and sustainable growth.
- Drive collaboration, transparency and continuous improvement across approvals, environmental and social performance activities
About the Successful Candidate:
The successful candidate will be a highly experienced approvals professional with a proven ability to navigate complex environmental and mining regulatory frameworks within the resources sector. Combining strong technical expertise with strategic insight, you will lead complex approvals programs, cultivate effective relationships with regulators and stakeholders, and provide trusted advice that supports operational excellence and long-term business growth.
Key attributes and experience include:
- A tertiary qualification in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Earth Sciences, Law or a related discipline
- Significant experience managing complex environmental and mining approvals within the resources sector
- Strong knowledge of environmental and mining legislation, regulatory frameworks and government approval processes, including EP Act (Part IV and V), Mining Act, EPBC Act and other related legislation
- Proven ability to develop and implement approvals strategies that support project delivery, operational objectives and long-term business growth
- Exceptional stakeholder engagement, communication and influencing skills, with experience working collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams and external stakeholders
- Strong planning, analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver outcomes in a dynamic environment
- Demonstrated ability to provide strategic regulatory advice, influence key business decisions and drive continuous improvement in approvals processes and outcomes
Some of the many benefits of working with Talison include:
- Flexible working environment
- Income protection insurance
- Life Insurance for company superannuation employees
- Competitive parental leave policy
- Salary sacrifice options for remote area housing, motor vehicles and superannuation
- Participation in site performance-based incentive scheme
About Talison Lithium:
Talison Lithium operates the Greenbushes Lithium Operation, the world's largest known hard-rock lithium deposit. As a critical supplier of minerals supporting the global energy transition, we are committed to operating safely, responsibly and sustainably while creating long-term value for our people, communities and other stakeholders.
Mining has been part of Greenbushes for more than 138 years. We work closely with local communities, Traditional Owners, government and industry to support regional development, environmental stewardship and lasting partnerships.
Join a collaborative, values-driven organisation and contribute to technically challenging projects that are shaping the future of one of the world's most significant critical minerals operations.
Supporting a diverse workforce:
Talison Lithium strongly encourages applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds with a wide range of work experience. Talison Lithium takes pride in its unique location and the excellent work/life balance offering that our employees enjoy. Talison Lithium recognises that we are strengthened by diversity and is committed to providing a work environment where everyone is treated fairly and with respect. We are an inclusive employer and we welcome applications from all genders, cultures and identities.
