Vacation Work

Vacation work AKA 'vac work' with a minerals or energy company is a short-term (usually quite well paid!) position for undergraduate students.

Securing a vac work position is a great way to break into the resources sector and a good way to confirm your interest in the industry.

Vac work jobs are typically based at a mine site, power station or out in the field (but sometimes in a city office). Vac work is a great opportunity to experience a resources sector career and the associated lifestyle.

Most opportunities are for students studying engineering (mining, metallurgy, chemical, civil, environment, mechanical, electrical) or science (earth, environment, surveying). However, there are jobs in the areas of business, law, health and safety too.

Companies offer vac work to students who they believe best fit their company culture. Having top grades is not always essential as companies usually look for someone with a mix of qualities I.e. technical ability, a demonstrated interest in and knowledge of the organisation, a mature work ethic, and a safety-conscious attitude. Many companies use vac work as a filter for identifying potential graduates so it can be a good way for students to get a foot in the door.

Securing a vac work opportunity can be competitive but people should not be discouraged by this as hundreds of students gain vac work each year. We recommend that even first-year students apply. Most companies offer summer vac work from December to February each year. Applications for these jobs generally open from July and can close as late as November.

The only place you will find these jobs all in one place is via our Facebook Group Vac work with mining and energy companies. We update this group daily so if you have any queries just contact us via the group.

Join our Facebook Group Vac work with mining and energy companies