The Kemerton Lithium Hydroxide Processing Plant in Western Australia represents one of the most important links in the global electric vehicle supply chain. Operated jointly by Tianqi Lithium Energy Australia (TLEA) and Albemarle Corporation, this facility refines spodumene concentrate from the Greenbushes Mine into high-purity lithium hydroxide — a critical ingredient in EV batteries.
For FIFO and residential workers alike, Kemerton is not just another processing plant; it’s the heart of Australia’s growing downstream lithium industry. This 2026 guide explores everything from the plant’s operations and job types to rosters, pay, and lifestyle expectations for those looking to work with two of the biggest names in battery materials production.
2. About Tianqi and Albemarle
Tianqi Lithium Energy Australia (TLEA) is a joint venture between China’s Tianqi Lithium Corporation (51%) and Australia’s IGO Limited (49%). The partnership operates both the Greenbushes Lithium Mine and the Kwinana Lithium Hydroxide Refinery, and is deeply involved in developing Western Australia’s lithium processing industry.
Albemarle Corporation, based in the United States, is one of the world’s largest chemical producers, supplying lithium to leading battery manufacturers such as Tesla and Panasonic. Albemarle owns and operates its own lithium hydroxide plant at Kemerton, located about 17 kilometres north of Bunbury.
Together, the two companies are transforming WA’s South West into a global hub for battery-grade lithium production and refining, offering a growing range of technical, trade, and process roles.
3. The Kemerton Lithium Hydroxide Project
3.1 Location and Site Overview
- Located within the Kemerton Industrial Park, 17 kilometres north of Bunbury and 150 kilometres south of Perth.
- The site is surrounded by heavy industry and connected to Bunbury Port for export.
- The area supports both FIFO and residential work arrangements.
- Processing capacity exceeds 50,000 tonnes of lithium hydroxide per year.
3.2 Operation and Scope
- Focused on refining spodumene concentrate from the Greenbushes Mine (one of the world’s richest lithium deposits).
- Utilises advanced chemical processing to produce battery-grade lithium hydroxide.
- Expansion stages will increase production to meet global EV battery demand.
- Employs several hundred skilled workers across engineering, processing, and support services.
4. Common FIFO and Residential Job Roles
Processing and Production
- Process Plant Operators and Chemical Technicians.
- Control Room Operators monitoring complex refining systems.
- Filter Press and Leach Area Operators.
- Quality Assurance and Laboratory Analysts ensuring purity standards.
Trades and Maintenance
- Electrical and Instrumentation Technicians.
- Mechanical Fitters and Boilermakers.
- HV Electricians and Automation Specialists.
- Maintenance Planners and Reliability Engineers.
Engineering and Technical Roles
- Process Engineers (Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical).
- Project Engineers and Commissioning Supervisors.
- Instrumentation and Control Engineers.
- Production Supervisors and Shift Managers.
Support and Administration
- HSE Advisors and Environmental Officers.
- Procurement, Logistics, and Supply Chain Coordinators.
- Camp Services and Cleaning for FIFO staff (if staying at satellite camps).
- Administration and HR roles based in Bunbury or Perth.
5. Rosters, Lifestyle, and Living Options
Roster Patterns
The Kemerton operation offers both FIFO and residential work arrangements depending on role and department:
- FIFO rosters are typically 8 days on and 6 days off, with charter flights available from Perth.
- Some maintenance and commissioning teams operate on a 2 weeks on and 1 week off schedule.
- Residential staff based in Bunbury or Australind enjoy standard Monday–Friday rosters with flexible hours.
Accommodation and Facilities
- FIFO workers are typically housed in nearby accommodation villages or contracted camps within Bunbury and Harvey.
- Residential employees often choose to live in the South West region, known for its beaches, wineries, and family-friendly lifestyle.
- Facilities include canteens, recreation rooms, gyms, and dedicated rest areas for shift workers.
Work Environment
- Modern, fully automated processing environment with strict safety and environmental controls.
- Strong emphasis on mental health, training, and long-term career development.
- Supportive international management team focused on sustainability and innovation.
6. Pay and Benefits (2026 Estimates)
| Role Type | Annual Salary (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Utility and Entry-Level Roles | 85,000 – 100,000 |
| Process Operators | 120,000 – 160,000 |
| Trades (Electrical, Mechanical, Instrumentation) | 150,000 – 200,000 |
| Engineers and Supervisors | 180,000 – 250,000 |
| Senior Technical or Leadership Roles | 220,000 – 300,000 |
Employee Benefits
- Flights, meals, and accommodation covered for FIFO staff.
- Performance-based bonuses and company profit sharing.
- Subsidised health insurance and paid professional development.
- Family relocation assistance for residential roles.
- Employee wellness programs and international mobility opportunities.
7. Training, Qualifications, and Entry Requirements
Mandatory Certifications
- White Card (Construction Induction).
- Confined Space Entry and Gas Test Atmospheres.
- Working at Heights (for maintenance roles).
- Chemical Handling and Process Safety Training.
- Pre-employment medical and drug screening.
Preferred Skills and Experience
- Certificate III or IV in Process Plant Operations, Chemical Processing, or Engineering.
- Background in refining, chemical, or mineral processing.
- Trade qualifications in electrical, mechanical, or instrumentation.
- Experience with distributed control systems (DCS) such as Siemens or Honeywell.
Entry Pathways
Both Tianqi and Albemarle offer apprenticeships, traineeships, and graduate programs focused on chemical engineering and process operations. Bunbury-based TAFE institutions also deliver tailored training courses for the lithium processing industry.
8. Life on Site and in the Community
Workplace Culture
The Kemerton operation is known for its professional yet inclusive work culture. Both companies emphasise safety, environmental responsibility, and continuous improvement. Team collaboration is encouraged across multinational workforces, blending Australian and international expertise.
Community and Sustainability
Both Tianqi and Albemarle invest heavily in local South West communities.
- Funding for environmental conservation programs.
- Partnerships with local schools and TAFEs to promote STEM education.
- Indigenous engagement and procurement initiatives.
- A strong focus on renewable energy usage and carbon reduction targets.
Lifestyle
Working in Bunbury or the South West region offers a rare balance of industrial career growth and lifestyle comfort. Employees can enjoy coastal living while working on projects that are shaping the future of clean energy.
9. Advantages and Challenges
Advantages
- Stable long-term operations tied to global battery demand.
- Excellent career growth in chemical and process engineering.
- High salaries with strong job security.
- Modern facilities, advanced technology, and international exposure.
- Options for both FIFO and residential work.
Challenges
- Shift work and night rotations can be demanding.
- Chemical processing requires strict safety compliance.
- Some FIFO staff face limited camp social life compared to remote mine sites.
- Early-stage operations may involve evolving systems and procedures.
10. Career Progression and Future Outlook
Career Pathways
- Process Operator → Senior Operator → Shift Supervisor → Production Superintendent.
- Tradesperson → Maintenance Planner → Reliability Engineer → Maintenance Superintendent.
- Graduate Engineer → Process Engineer → Senior Engineer → Operations Manager.
- HSE Advisor → Safety Superintendent → Site Manager.
Future Outlook (2026–2030)
The global lithium demand is expected to double by 2030, and Kemerton will remain a central hub in Australia’s downstream processing future. Expansion phases will continue to create new roles in maintenance, commissioning, and process control.
Both Albemarle and Tianqi are also exploring green energy integration, including hydrogen and renewables, ensuring long-term sustainability and workforce growth.
11. Final Thoughts
Working with Tianqi or Albemarle at the Kemerton Lithium Hydroxide Plant offers an opportunity to be part of Australia’s transformation into a clean energy powerhouse. Whether you are a tradesperson, chemical technician, or process engineer, these companies provide stable, future-focused careers in one of the world’s most advanced lithium facilities.
With strong pay, global connections, and an ideal South West lifestyle, Kemerton stands as one of the most attractive FIFO or residential options in the Australian resources sector for 2026 and beyond.
