Graduate Jobs

Minerals and energy companies are seeking talented graduates to join their companies. Most opportunities are for graduates from engineering (mining, metallurgy, chemical, civil, environment, mechanical, mechatronic, electrical) or science (earth, environment, surveying). However, there are job opportunities in the areas of business, law, health and safety too.

Graduate jobs are typically based at a mine site, power station or out in the field (but sometimes in a city office). Depending on the company, there may be an established graduate program. Graduate programs can be anywhere from one year to three years in duration and can have varying degrees of formal structure. Many graduate programs, especially with the larger companies involve four six month rotations over a two year period. This rotation will usually involve various aspects of the business or different sites. This rotation allows graduates to get a feel the business and to see what they best enjoy and are good at, in order to direct the development of a career specialisation.

Graduates within the minerals or energy sector are typically well paid. However, graduates should be cautious not to base their entire decision to join a company, or the industry, on the size of the salary. There are other important things to consider – what commodity do you want experience in, or do you want to work for a consulting or contracting company? Will you be living residentially in a mining town, in a city or at a fly-in-fly-out operation? If you have a partner and you are relocating, are there opportunities for them? Does the company culture and graduate program seem like a good fit for you?

Securing a graduate job can be competitive and ensuring your competitive advantage can start early. In addition to doing your best in your university studies, gaining a scholarship or vac work is a good way to get a foot in the door with a company. Making an effort to seek out industry contacts and mentors by attending industry networking events or attending technical seminars and conferences can also be worthwhile. You should also try to stay informed on industry issues to assist you in targeting your graduate job applications and careers ambitions.

Most companies advertise their graduate programs from January to April each year. To access many of the graduate jobs available with QRC member companies, join our Facebook Group Graduate jobs with mining and energy companies. We update this group regularly so if you have any queries just contact us via the group.

Join our Facebook Group Graduate jobs with mining and energy companies.