Mining & FIFO Jobs in Australia

The most common pathway into mining is to obtain a White Card (construction induction card, required nationally), plus any state-specific certification such as Standard 11 in Queensland. Starting in an entry-level role such as driller's offsider, trade assistant or site support gives you on-site experience that opens doors to higher-paid positions. Registering with a specialist mining recruitment agency like Chandler Macleod gives you access to roles that are often filled before they are publicly advertised, particularly FIFO and DIDO positions with major mining companies.

Australian mining roles span a wide range of disciplines. Entry-level positions include driller's offsider, trade assistant, site support and camp services. Skilled trades in high demand include heavy diesel mechanics, electricians, instrument technicians, fixed plant mechanics and mobile plant operators. Engineering and technical roles cover mine engineers, geologists, surveyors and HSE officers. FIFO and DIDO arrangements are available across all these categories, with rosters typically ranging from 8/6 through to 2/1.

Yes. Entry-level FIFO roles are available for candidates without prior mining experience, particularly in site support, camp services, cleaning and trade assistant positions. Having a White Card, a current driver's licence, physical fitness and a willingness to pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol screen are the typical requirements. Some operators also offer traineeships and new-to-industry programs for candidates looking to build skills on site.

FIFO rosters vary by site and employer. Common arrangements include 8 days on, 6 days off (8/6), 2 weeks on, 1 week off (2/1) and 4 weeks on, 1 week off for more remote operations. Some sites offer DIDO (Drive-In, Drive-Out) arrangements for candidates living within commutable distance. Roster details are always listed in individual job descriptions, and our consultants can help match you to a roster that suits your lifestyle.

Yes. The majority of FIFO mining roles allow candidates to fly from major Australian cities including Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Perth. Flight costs and transfers are typically covered by the employer. Some roles specify a preferred fly-in point, which is listed in the job description. Candidates based in regional areas close to mine sites may also be eligible for DIDO arrangements.

Yes. Women are increasingly represented across all areas of mining, from entry-level FIFO roles in dump truck operations, cleaning and camp support through to skilled trades, engineering, safety and site management. Chandler Macleod actively recruits for mining clients with inclusive hiring practices, and regularly places women in both operational and leadership roles across the sector.

Yes. Chandler Macleod recruits mining roles across all major Australian resource regions. Western Australia is the largest market, with roles in the Pilbara (iron ore), Goldfields (gold) and Mid West regions. Queensland has active recruitment in the Bowen Basin (coal) and north Queensland gold and copper operations. New South Wales has coal and gold operations in the Hunter Valley and Central West, and the Northern Territory has active gold and uranium sector recruitment.

Yes. In addition to mining and resources roles, Chandler Macleod recruits across the broader energy sector including renewable energy, oil and gas, infrastructure and energy-related project roles. If you are interested in renewable energy specifically, our dedicated renewable energy jobs page lists current opportunities.

Safety is central to how Chandler Macleod places mining candidates. We work exclusively with clients who maintain strong safety cultures, and ensure every placed worker is properly inducted, holds current required certifications and is fully compliant with site-specific requirements before commencing. Our consultants remain available throughout your assignment for any issues that arise on site.

Register your details with Chandler Macleod and our mining recruitment specialists will contact you as relevant roles become available. Many mining positions, particularly FIFO roles with major operators, are filled through our candidate database before they are publicly advertised. Setting up a job alert also means you'll be notified as soon as new roles matching your criteria are posted.