How To Get Mining Job With No Experience? | Mining Australia

The Australian mining industry offers a wealth of career opportunities, including entry points for individuals with no prior experience. With the right preparation and approach, you can secure a role in the sector, whether through FIFO mining jobs, residential positions, or entry-level support roles, and begin building a rewarding career.

At FIFO Global, we’re committed to guiding you through your journey into the FIFO (Fly-In Fly-Out) lifestyle. This article outlines the essential steps to land a mining job with no experience and provides insight into the kinds of roles available to new starters.

Step 1: Understand the Mining Industry

Before applying, it’s important to gain a basic understanding of how the mining industry operates and what employers are looking for.

Common Entry-Level Positions

• Drilling Offsiders
• Field Technicians
• Camp Support Roles (e.g., cleaning, catering, kitchen hands)
• Utility Workers
• Labourers on construction or shutdown crews

These roles are excellent entry points into mining jobs for beginners and often require minimal prior experience.

FIFO Work Environment

Many positions in mining operate on a FIFO roster—for example, two weeks on-site followed by one week off. Accommodation, meals, and flights are typically provided by the employer, making it a practical lifestyle choice for workers across Australia.

General Requirements

• Good physical fitness
• Willingness to work in remote locations
• Ability to follow strict safety protocols
• A proactive, team-oriented attitude

Step 2: Strengthen Your Qualifications

While previous experience isn’t always required, meeting certain qualifications can significantly improve your chances of being recruited by mining employment agencies or large employers like BHP and Glencore.

Pass a Pre-Employment Medical

Mining companies require a pre-employment medical assessment, which often includes drug and alcohol screening to ensure you meet the physical and safety demands of the role.

Obtain Industry-Recognised Certifications

Consider completing short training courses such as:

• Standard 11 Induction (QLD)
• White Card (for construction work)
• First Aid & CPR
• Confined Space Entry
• Working at Heights

For those interested in machinery operation, gaining the appropriate high-risk licences (e.g. loaders, excavators, forklifts) can be beneficial.

Explore Traineeships and Apprenticeships

Look into apprenticeships in heavy diesel fitting, electrical trades, or plant operations to gain hands-on skills and long-term job prospects in the industry.

Step 3: Start Your Mining Job Search

Build Industry Connections

Networking is key. Join FIFO groups on LinkedIn, attend industry expos, and engage with mining recruitment agencies in your region.

Tailor Your Resume

Highlight transferable skills such as teamwork, physical labour, communication, and reliability. Experience in construction, hospitality, logistics or manual labour can all strengthen your application.

Use Online Job Boards

Search for terms like:

• Mining jobs near me
• FIFO jobs no experience
• Coal mine jobs near me
• Underground mining jobs
• Entry-level mining jobs WA / QLD / NSW

Websites like SEEK, Indeed, and company career pages such as BHP Careers and Glencore Careers frequently list suitable opportunities.

Entry-Level Mining Jobs That Often Require No Experience

Production Operators

Operate diggers, loaders, and haul trucks. These positions may require specific licences but are highly sought after.

Maintenance & Mechanical Support

Involves servicing machinery and equipment. Entry via assistant roles or apprenticeships is common.

Construction

Ideal for those starting out. Supports infrastructure development on mine sites and may lead to higher-level roles.

Drilling & Exploration

Physically demanding but well-paid, drilling crews are crucial to exploration and resource testing.

General Services

Support roles like kitchenhands, cleaners, and laundry staff are great for starting a FIFO career with no experience, including FIFO jobs for females.

Shutdown Labour

Temporary roles during plant shutdowns. These can serve as a gateway into long-term employment if you perform well.

Final Thoughts

Starting a career in mining without experience is possible in Australia’s thriving resources sector. With the right preparation, such as obtaining certifications, staying physically fit, and actively networking, you can break into the industry through FIFO or residential entry-level mining jobs.

Whether you’re looking to transition into the field or are just starting your career journey, FIFO Global is here to help you navigate opportunities in the FIFO lifestyle. From connecting with the right mining job recruiters to staying informed about current openings, we aim to be your go-to resource for FIFO work in Australia.