Get a job in the mining industry
Get a job in the mining industry
The mining industry is a vibrant and dynamic sector that offers a wide range of career opportunities across technical, operational and professional disciplines.
Whether you're a student exploring career options, a recent graduate looking for your first role, or a professional considering a move into resources, AusIMM can help you navigate your next step. Explore career pathways, connect with industry professionals, access mentoring opportunities and discover practical advice to help you build a successful career in mining.
Useful tips
- Study an undergraduate or postgraduate course: Check out our recognised courses list to find out about tertiary mining courses.
- Apply your trade skills: There are many roles for trades people in the mining and resources sector for varying skill levels and easily transferable to the mining sector.
- Tap into your transferable skills: Skills and qualifications in complementary industries such as construction and infrastructure can allow you to make a sidestep into mining.
- Go where the jobs are: Consider moving to a regional mining centre such as Kalgoorlie in Western Australia or the Hunter Valley in New South Wales.
- Research and reach out: Check out mining company websites for vacant positions and contact recruitment companies that specialise in the mining sector.
- Get your foot in the door: Consider starting as support team member (e.g. maintenance, labourer, trades assistant, field assistant) to get a feel for the industry.
- Get certified: Obtain required licenses and certifications such as ‘working in confined spaces’, ‘standard 11 mining induction’ or truck licenses.
- Be visible: Keep your LinkedIn profile updated and connect with those in the industry. Attend industry conferences and events to increase your knowledge and network.
How can I find out what jobs are available?
- Your university: Most university departments have industry contacts and may be notified when companies are looking for graduates. Find out when and where your department advertises these positions, e.g on a university job board, career fair, industry night.
- Company websites: Most mining companies advertise vacancies on their website so keep an eye on these and subscribe to any newsletter or distribution list where career announcements are made.
- Online job listings: Some employers go through recruitment agencies and they in turn often advertise through online job listings.
- Networking: Take up opportunities to network with industry – attend events and talk to people! Not all work is advertised. Let it be known to all your friends, family, former/current work colleagues, university staff members and anyone else you can think of, that you are looking for work.
- Approach companies directly: Approaching an employer directly can generate work opportunities for you but you must go in prepared to make a positive impression.
How can I stand out from the crowd?
- Get work experience: Take up opportunities to gain experience while you are studying. Some companies offer vacation work which is a great way to experience the mining industry and to build on your employability skills.
- Apply for Graduate Programs: With limited places available, entry to a Graduate Program is competitive. Do your research, get in early and submit a clear, concise CV.
- Network: AusIMM Student Chapters hold networking events throughout the year where you get to talk one-on-one with representatives from companies.
- Get involved. Join a committee running Student Chapter events and participate in AusIMM Branch activities to meet AusIMM members who can refer you to employers.
- Apply for scholarships: Being awarded a scholarship from AusIMM, your university or a mining company may increase your employability. Often companies that donate to scholarship funds take an active interest in recipients of those scholarships.
- Join a mentoring program: Gain career advice and support from a sector leader and learn from a mentor who is invested in your professional growth.
- Be open to trying new things: Consider taking on a more junior role, or one that is slightly different to what you had planned. Sometimes all you need is a foot in the door and you can then set new goals for your career progression.
- Consider an Honours or Masters degree: Show your passion for your chosen career by completing an Honours or Master degree. Employees may look more favourably on these qualifications – especially if they have particular relevance to one of their projects.
What can AusIMM offer?
AusIMM Student Chapters
Joining a local student chapter offers excellent networking opportunities.
Mining career pathways
Explore the different pathways to have a longstanding career in the resources industry.
AusIMM Mentoring Program
Gain career advice and support from a sector leader and learn from a mentor who is invested in your professional growth.
Scholarships and prizes
An exciting range of scholarships and prizes are on offer annually.