Cracking Into Entry-Level Mining Roles
Landing an entry-level mining job isn’t always straightforward. Each sector of the industry operates under its own standards and systems—so there’s no one-size-fits-all pathway in.
That said, if you can demonstrate that you understand how a mine works and what’s expected onsite, you’ve got something valuable to offer. It’s that insight that often tips the balance in your favour.
Our sponsored YouTube channel, Australian Mining for New Starters, features videos packed with practical knowledge every new starter should know. From where to find entry-level mining jobs to how to prepare for them, it’s all there.
Interested in speaking directly with someone on the inside? Use the Enquiry Form to connect with a Shift Boss—they’ll text you to set up a time for a chat.
Cutting Through the Noise: What You Really Need to Get a Mining Job
There’s no shortage of opinions out there about what it takes to land a job in the mining industry. That’s why I’ve created this short PowerPoint—to break down what actually matters (and what doesn’t) when you’re just starting out.
If you’re serious about getting a mining job, you need to focus your efforts where employers have no choice but to hire entry-level workers—and then give them what they’re looking for.
And what is that?
Someone who understands how the mine works and what will be expected on site.
Where’s the Money in Today’s Mining Jobs?
If you’re driven by big paychecks and don’t mind getting your hands dirty, then you’re in the right place. In hard rock underground mining, everyone on crew has career aspirations and their eyes on one role—the Jumbo Operator.
Why? Because $1,500+ per day speaks for itself.
Why Employers Fast-Track Training for New Starters
In the mining industry, safety isn’t just a priority—it’s the reason new starters are rapidly loaded up with knowledge in their first weeks on site.
To do the job safely, you need to understand how the mine operates, what the risks are, and how to manage them. Until then, you’re considered a liability—requiring close supervision from a buddy or experienced crew member.
It’s simple: the longer it takes you to find your feet, the more likely you are to fail. That’s why the same employers and sites often have a steady stream of weekly job ads—they need people who can get up to speed and stay safe, fast.
Writing a Mining-Friendly Resume: Think Like the Foreman
When crafting a resume for the mining industry—especially hard rock roles—it’s essential to view it from the perspective of the person doing the hiring. That’s usually the Foreman or Project Manager.
They want someone who already understands how the mine works and what’s expected on site. If your resume shows that you’ve done your homework and can speak their language, you’re far more likely to land the interview—and eventually, the job.
Understanding Pay Structures in Hard Rock Mining
In this video overview, we break down how pay works across the industry, including:
- The old award system
- Individual workplace contracts and how they affect your earnings
- Workplace agreements and what they mean for site conditions and pay rates
The Hidden Mining Job Boom the Media Keeps Missing
As with everything in life, it’s all about following the money.
Sectors where wages are rising? They’re in the middle of a job boom.
Sectors where wages are flat or falling? Not so much.
The mining job boom has shifted—but the conversation around where the new entry-level roles are (and how to land one) hasn’t caught up. That’s the gap we’re here to close.
Hard Rock Mining Jobs: Getting Hired Is Just the Beginning
Want to know where the jobs are in hard rock—gold, nickel, copper, zinc and beyond? They’re out there. But landing one is only the first step.
The real challenge is surviving the first six months. That’s the proving ground where many new starters struggle to find their feet and deliver what employers need.
It’s not as easy as it sounds. To avoid becoming another short-term statistic, the best move is to understand how the mine operates and what’s expected of you before you arrive.
The more you know before you go, the better your odds of making it stick—and making mining work for you.
“Just Get a Job with BHP” — Easier Said Than Done
It’s a phrase that gets tossed around all the time on social media when people ask how to break into mining: “Just apply at BHP.”
But where do you actually start?
This short video breaks down how BHP is structured—because it’s not set up the way most people think. It shows where their key assets are located and explains why understanding this can make a big difference for new starters trying to get a foot in the door.
What Makes Hard Rock Underground Mining So Tough?
Last week, someone asked me a great question: “When you say hard rock mining is a hard job—what exactly do you mean?”
There’s more to it than most people realise. In this video, I break down the key factors that make it one of the most challenging—and rewarding—jobs out there.
The more you know before you go, the faster you’ll find your feet… and turn this into a real career.
Thinking Long-Term in an Entry-Level Iron Ore Job
This entry-level role with a major iron ore company raises an important question: If I take this path, how long will my mining career last?
It’s something I often ask people considering the industry:
- Where do you see yourself in five years?
- Will you still be on the same site—doing the same job?
- Will you be progressing, or waiting for someone above you to move on?
- And what’s the long-term outlook—are there going to be enough roles for surface truck drivers, or could we be heading toward oversupply?
These are the kinds of questions worth thinking about before you start—and as you plan your next move.
We hope this information gives you a solid starting point.
The real key to landing a mining job is simple: show employers that you understand how their mine operates and what will be expected of you on site. When you can demonstrate that, you’re not just another applicant—you’re someone who brings real value from day one.
If you need guidance on the basic requirements for working in the mines, explore our Mining Career Checklist, and your Pathway to Success
📌 DIY Introduction to Underground Mining – A 50-hour course packed with essential industry knowledge.
✅ Includes step-by-step resume guidance (takes about 2 hours with our template).
✅ Interview preparation questions to ensure you’re ready to impress.
✅ Direct mining company application details to kickstart your job search.
💡 Want a professionally crafted resume? Check out our 3 Step Plan Package for expert assistance!
Need Extra Help Breaking Into Mining?
📌 Workready Package – Get personalized support from a WA ticketed shift boss:
✅ Includes DIY Introduction to Underground Mining course package.
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For more details, leave your contact information on our Enquiry Form page.
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