Working in the Australian mines has a lot going for it, from strong earning potential to plenty of opportunities for professional development. With many of the large-scale operations based in remote areas of Australia, Fly-In-Fly-Out (FIFO) work is common in roles related to the mining industry. These arrangements allow people to balance their personal and onsite responsibilities without needing to relocate full-time.
If you’re considering a career in the mines, here is some of the basic information you should know about FIFO mining jobs, as well as our tips for how to get started.
What to Expect & Benefits of FIFO Work
The FIFO lifestyle can be extremely lucrative and rewarding, but it isn’t for everyone, so it’s important to know what to expect when assessing your options.
High earning potential: The mining industry in WA often offers competitive salaries and benefits. Fly-In-Fly-Out workers tend to get paid very high wages, with more experienced roles earning well into six figures and even entry-level roles receiving salaries that are significantly above average in comparison to other industries.
Job security: The mining sector in WA has been a significant contributor to the state's economy for many years. Mining operations are typically long-term projects, providing employees with more stability and job security compared to other industries.
Career advancement opportunities: Mining companies in WA often prioritise the professional development and career progression of their employees. There are opportunities for specialised training, gaining valuable skills, and advancing into supervisory or managerial positions.
Employee benefits: Many mining companies offer comprehensive employee benefits packages, including health insurance, above legislation Super payments, and extra leave entitlements above the standard. These benefits aim to attract and retain skilled workers in a competitive industry.
FIFO arrangements: Transport and accommodation are included for all FIFO roles, most sites offer extensive well-being facilities such as pools, gyms, media rooms, and wellness rooms. Your meals, laundry and other living costs are taken care of while you’re on site (but we recommend speaking to your recruiter to find out exactly what is provided for the position you’re interested in). FIFO work provides a unique lifestyle for individuals who prefer time off between work shifts and an opportunity to live in different areas.
Rostering: The typical arrangement for experienced FIFO workers is that they work for a certain period and then fly (or in some cases, bus) back home for a break. This is especially common in places like Western Australia where a lot of the mine sites are very remote. FIFO Rosters vary from even time 8/6, 7/7 or 2/2 to the more common 2/1. Shifts generally rotate between day and night shifts, with each one being around 12 hours long, including rest and meal breaks.
Exposure to advanced technology and equipment: The mining industry is known for its use of cutting-edge technology and equipment. Working in the mines can provide exposure to state-of-the-art machinery, automation systems, and advanced operational techniques, which can enhance your skills and knowledge.
Unique work environment: Mining jobs often take place in remote and scenic locations, offering a different work environment compared to urban areas. This can be appealing to individuals who enjoy working outdoors and exploring natural landscapes. However it should be noted that these locations can be very hot, temperatures can often hit 50 degrees in the summertime when working outdoors so hydration is vital.
Requirements of a FIFO Mining Job
So, what does it take to land a job in the mines? The requirements of a FIFO mining job vary depending on the specific site and role in question. However, some general requirements will serve you well, whatever job you’re pursuing:
Industry-specific qualifications: Many mining and resources jobs require specific qualifications and certifications. These can include mining-specific certifications, trade qualifications, heavy machinery operation licenses, or other relevant industry qualifications.
Experience and skills: Previous experience in the mining or resources sector is often preferred, particularly for more specialised roles. Skills such as operating heavy machinery, maintenance, drilling, blasting, or geotechnical expertise can be advantageous.
Medical and fitness assessments: FIFO workers are typically required to undergo medical assessments to ensure they meet the physical and mental demands of the job. These assessments may include drug and alcohol testing, fitness evaluations, hearing, and overall health checks.
Valid Australian driver's license: A valid Australian driver's license is often required, as FIFO workers may need to drive company vehicles or operate machinery as part of their job.
Security clearance: Security measures and clearances depend on the location of the site and what is being mined, but most sites in Australia require applicants to have a National Police Certificate (NPC) at a minimum.
Safety certifications: Workplace health and safety are paramount in the mining industry. Employers may require FIFO workers to have completed safety training courses such as Construction Induction Card (White Card) or specific mine site induction programs to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Ability to pass security and drug & alcohol checks: Due to the sensitive nature of some mining operations, workers may be required to pass security checks or obtain security clearances. Random D&A testing is carried out across most mine sites in WA with a zero tolerance if you blow numbers
A “work hard, play hard” attitude: With mining-related roles often involving long hours, people who can put in the work but also make the most of time off will do best in this environment
It's important to note that these requirements are general guidelines, and specific roles or employers may have additional or different criteria. If you are interested in pursuing FIFO work in Australia, speaking to a specialist Mining recruitment consultant should be your first point of call to find out what you need to secure a role.
Common Mining & Resources Jobs
Many people don’t realise that a wide range of jobs are necessary on a mine site, some of which are more generic and don’t involve working in the mine itself. This means there are opportunities for people with a variety of skill sets available.
Common Mining & Resources jobs (including FIFO jobs) are:
Facilities Management
- FIFO Utilities
- FIFO Chefs
- FIFO Bus Drivers
- FIFO Security Guards
- FIFO Admins
- HSE Advisors
- Camp Maintenance
Operations - Surface
- Mobile Plant Operators
- Fixed Plant Operators
- Mine Management
- Trainer Assessors
- Mine & Project Engineers
- Trades & Labour
- Mobile / Fixed Plant Stores
- Crushing Operational Support
Operations - Underground
- Bogger Operator
- Jumbo Operators
- Service Crew & Nippers
- Mobile Plant Operators
- Paste Fill
- Shift Bosses
- Managers & Supervisors
- Engineers & Surveyors
- Operational Support
Civil Infrastructure
- Managers & Supervisors
- Project Managers & Engineers
- Civil Operators
- Estimators & Schedulers
- Health & Safety
- Final Trim Operators
- Pit & Pipe
Drill & Blast
- Managers Supervisors
- Drill Fitters
- Service Crew
- Blast Crew
- Hole Drillers
- Magazine Keepers
- Blast Engineers
- Shot-firers
- Pit Technicians
Oil, Gas & LNG
- SMP Pipe Fitters
- Coded Welders
- Boilermakers
- Pressure Testers
- CNC Machinists
- Valve Technicians
- Mechanical Engineers
- Electrical Engineers
- Chemical Engineers
- Maintenance Managers
- High-Pressure Blasters
- Industrial Spray Painters
- Mechanical Fitters
- Electrical Fitters
Trades & Labour
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- E&I Technicians
- Mechanical Fitters
- HD & LV Fitters
- Boilermakers
- Welders
- Managers
- Supervisors
- Trades Assistants
Exploration
- Geologists
- Field Technicians
- Graduates
- RC & Diamond Drillers
- Drillers Offsiders
- Sample Prep
How to Get a Job in the Mines
To get a FIFO job in the Australian mines, the most effective approach is to get in touch with a specialist Mining and Resources recruitment agency.
With over two decades of industry recruitment experience and backed by some of Australia's biggest Mining organisations in Australia, we are the go-to specialists for FIFO recruitment.
To begin the process of your FIFO journey, fill out the form below to get in touch with the Evolve Mining & Resources team. It's important to provide accurate and up-to-date information about your skills, qualifications, and previous experience in the mining sector, as this will assist the agency in matching you with aligned job opportunities.
Working with a specialist agency like Evolve can offer several advantages when seeking employment in the mining industry. We have a deep understanding of industry requirements, job market trends, and specific skill sets in demand.
Remember to stay proactive in your job search by regularly checking our Mining & Resources job board, networking with professionals in the field, and considering other avenues for employment in addition to the agency's assistance. Your journey to working in the Australian FIFO industry stars here!
