Common mistakes getting a mining job

I’ve been asked to share the most common mistakes people make when trying to land their first mining job. While there are countless ways to get it wrong, I’ve identified three key pitfalls that cover most of the major missteps.

Rather than listing every possible way things can go south, I’m focusing on these three critical mistakes because fixing them can dramatically increase your chances of getting hired in the mining industry.

Problem 1

The biggest mistake new starters make when trying to land their first mining job is misjudging what employers actually want. Many assume that experience in the seat and industry tickets are the key to getting hired, when in reality, these qualifications hold little to no value for mining employers.

Mining operates differently from most industries, where formal qualifications through TAFE or training centers are standard. In mining, site-specific training means that tickets aren’t transferable, making the thousands spent on 3-day truck driving courses a waste of money. These courses are designed for construction, not mining, and employers know instantly that these candidates haven’t educated themselves properly about how the industry works.

So, what do employers actually want?

If asked in an interview to collect 27 split sets, plates, and 4 bits of mesh, then transport them to level 27 and assist the jumbo operator in installing the support, would the candidate understand the request? Probably not—but those who can confidently answer questions like this stand a far better chance of getting the job.

This is the type of mining knowledge employers look for in new hires. Over the years, hundreds of successful candidates have secured jobs using this option—not industry experience, but real knowledge of mine operations.

Time and time again, employers hire candidates who can demonstrate an understanding of how the mine works and the tasks performed on-site—because they know these individuals will become productive workers much faster.

Problem 2

The second major mistake new starters make is submitting a resume that isn’t mining-friendly. A resume is your only chance to secure an interview, so it needs to be tailored to industry expectations.

Spending $500 plus on a resume service that simply adds a tiny dump truck icon to every page won’t cut it. What truly makes a resume stand out is simplicity and relevance.

As a Shiftboss and having been a part of the onsite hiring team, I’ve reviewed thousands of resumes over the years. It doesn’t take long to see which ones get extra attention and lead to an interview with the Foreman. The key? Keep it incredibly simple—straight to the point, without unnecessary embellishments.

The Introduction to Underground Mining Do It Yourself course package includes detailed tips on how to maximize your resume’s impact, ensuring it meets the industry’s hiring standards.

Problem 3

One of the biggest mistakes new starters make is underestimating how long it takes to land a mining job. Many go into the process expecting results within days or weeks, but real-world experience shows that securing a role typically takes months—and sometimes up to a year or more.

Yes, there are rare cases where individuals get hired within days after completing their mining education, but for every one of those, dozens more find success around the 10-month to one-year mark. It can feel like the mining gods are making them earn it, but the reality is that perseverance pays off.

Breaking into the industry requires long-term commitment—an investment in education, resume preparation, and consistent job applications. The process can be nerve-racking, requiring hours per week just to apply for roles. Too many people give up too soon, losing hope and stopping their applications right before opportunities arise.

If someone wants to succeed, they must give themselves enough time to make it work. With the right mining education and a well-structured resume, persistence is key—staying committed to the application process significantly improves the chances of securing that first role.

For further information, please contact us.

 

• Mining in Western Australia
• $2500 mining job no one knows about
• Remote work in Australia
• Entry level remote jobs
• 100k a year entry level mining jobs
• Mining entry level jobs
• Entry level jobs mining
• How to get a mining job
• Mining jobs with no experience in Australia
• Mining Australia jobs
• Mining jobs Australia no experience

#undergroundmining
#undergroundtraining
#entrylevelminingjobs
#fifoentryleveljobs
#fifojobsforbeginners
#miningaustralia
#miningcareers
#miningjobsaustralianoexperience
#noexperiencejobs
#westernaustraliamining
#workingholidayvisaaustralia
#highpayingjobs
#getaminingjob
#miningjobs