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Careers in the Resources Sector
This site is designed to provide secondary and tertiary students, career educators and counsellors with information which will help raise awareness of, and interest in, the range of employment opportunities available in the resources sector.
The careers are divided into three sections. Click on the links below to find an extensive range of careers in those areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out what jobs are available in the resources sector?
If you are currently seeking employment in the resources sector, you can obtain a list of major mineral and petroleum producers in Western Australia, along with their contact details by clicking here.
Many people imagine that all jobs are advertised in the newspaper. In fact, something like 64% of jobs are never advertised this way. Many jobs are filled by people hearing about them through contacts in the industry as most resources companies advertise jobs on site. Make it known that you are 'in the market' for a job in the resources sector.
Ideally you could write a covering letter to their Human Resources Manager and enclose a brief resume of your knowledge, skills and experience. 'Cold canvassing', as this is known, sometimes gets results.
There are a number of employment agencies who specialise in recruiting for the resources industry, with two of our associate members listed below. To register with recruitment consultants you do so by providing a resume and a brief career goal statement. You will be added to their database and contacted if a suitable job becomes available.
Saturday's edition of The West Australian newspaper is a prime location for advertised positions within the industry. Also, try to get hold of other papers, such as: The Weekend Australian, Sydney Morning Herald, Melbourne Age, Adelaide Advertiser, Brisbane Courier Mail etc. You may have to move interstate for the job you want. Don't forget that local papers from mining areas will have jobs advertised. These include the Kalgoorlie Miner, The North West Telegraph, Hunter Valley Star News, Mt Isa North-West Star and the Gladstone Observer.
Vacancies are also advertised online at such locations as seek.com.au and careerone.com.au.
What sort of employees are resources companies looking for?
As the saying goes...'horses for courses'. Different companies, in different locations conducting different minerals and energy operations will want different specific skills. However, virtually all resource companies will want people with the following attributes:
- a positive, willing attitude, ready to 'have a go'
- good general physical and mental health; and
- willingness to relocate, or travel, to remote sites;
- ready to learn.
A positive approach to safety
What sort of qualifications will assist me in getting a job in the resources sector?
- Relevant recent experience, is the greatest 'qualification' you can have.
- TAFE accredited Certificates, level I, II and III in relevant areas are very useful.
- Heavy vehicle licence is a must for any driving job.
- First aid certificate will always give you an edge over someone without one.
- MARCSTA accreditation also gives you an advantage.
What training is available to me in the resources sector?
The resources sector invests between 4% to 6% of its salary total into training. This can be on-the-job or off site with a training provider (eg TAFE). All employees receive on-going training in safety and health (OSH) and many obtain first aid certificates to qualify for OSH positions in the company.
- Semi-skilled workers can receive training as plant operators or attendants
- Technical workers can receive training as field assistants or laboratory technicians.
- Trades workers can receive further training relevant to their discipline (welding, electrical, mechanical etc)
- Administrative / support services workers can receive training in clerical support.
Can I get a traineeship in the resources sector and if so where do I apply?
Yes, in certain skill areas. Visit the WA Department of Education and Training's Apprenticeships and Traineeships website at http://www.apprenticeships.training.wa.gov.au/ or telephone their hotline on 13 19 54.
Is the resources sector an equal opportunity employer?
Yes, the resources sector is committed to the principles of equal opportunity for all employees, regardless of race, sex or physical disability. The industry promotes a diverse working environment free from discrimination or harassment.
How much can I expect to earn in the resources sector?
The resources sector is regarded as the highest paying of all industries. Salaries are based on:
- qualifications (university degrees, TAFE certificates I, II & III);
- experience (in minerals and energy or similar industries); and
- performance (how well you do the job over time)
Companies also offer other benefits such as generous superannuation, paid leave and insurance cover. Some companies offer opportunities to buy shares at discount prices.
Obviously companies expect a good return on their wages investment - so if you're allergic to hard work, don't bother to apply.
Can I get a job in the resources sector straight from secondary school?
Yes, provided you are over 16 years of age. Although your chances of employment are increased if you have completed a relevant TAFE certificate or pre-apprenticeship course.
What career paths are open to me in the resources sector?
A tradesperson or process operator can become a team leader and then, with further education and/or training, move into a management position. Provided you can demonstrate the capabilities to competently perform required tasks, you are only limited by your desire to achieve!
Who else can I talk to about a job in the resources sector?
Centrelink offices have contact addresses of Job Brokers who can help you look for work in the resources sector. Visit your local Centrelink, or phone 13 10 21, to register as a job seeker.
There are also several minerals industry job information services on the Internet. Although they seem to mainly focus on professional and technical jobs. Do a bit of 'surfing' anyway!
Also try the Career Information Centre Level 2 City Central Building, 166 Murray Street, Perth, telephone 9464 1305. You can make an appointment to talk to a counsellor about your career options. They also have a large range of computerised career guidance programs.
The Training Information Centre, Level 2 City Central Building, 166 Murray Street, Perth, telephone 1800 999 167, is very helpful if you want to find out about training courses which will improve your chances of getting a job in the resources sector. | 
