Myths about getting an entry level mining job
Common Myths About Getting an Entry-Level Mining Job
5 Myths About Getting an Entry-Level Mining Job
If you—or someone you know—are considering a mining career, understanding the reality of entry-level roles can save time and money. Let’s clear up some common misconceptions:
Myth 1: The industry uses a national ticketing system
Understanding Onsite Tickets in Hardrock Mining
In hardrock mining across Australia, onsite tickets and procedures are non-transferable, meaning that when workers move to a new mine site, they must complete new equipment tickets and site-specific procedures.
Unlike other industries, such as construction, shutdowns, Oil & Gas, and Queensland coal mining, which use the RII ticket system, hardrock mines follow state-based regulations. Each state has its own mines inspectorate, ensuring that every mine issues its own equipment tickets and operational procedures.
Even when transferring within the same company, workers must redo all site inductions and certifications for each new location. This system places responsibility on mine owners and employers, improving safety standards by ensuring every site remains accountable for the workforce operating there.
Do You Really Need Equipment Tickets for Mining Jobs?
If you—or a friend—are considering getting equipment tickets, take five minutes to check job ads before investing in unnecessary certifications.
A simple search for “underground“ on Seek will show truck driver job ads, and most don’t require equipment tickets.
✅ Underground truck jobs usually just need a manual car license.
✅ Open pit truck jobs (if available) typically ask for an HR license.
Before spending money on certifications, verify what employers are actually looking for so you can focus on the qualifications that matter.
Avoid Wasting Money on Unnecessary Mining Tickets
Over the years, many people have spent money on tickets that ultimately hurt their chances of landing a mining job.
If you submit a resume full of RII tickets to an actual production mining employer, chances are it will be immediately culled. Why? Because those tickets aren’t used in hardrock mining—they signal that you don’t understand how their mine operates.
Instead of demonstrating industry knowledge, you’re presenting credentials that employers can’t use. What does that say about the research you’ve done to get into the industry? More importantly, what kind of employee will that make you?
Unfortunately, many hiring managers see this as a red flag, indicating a candidate isn’t properly prepared.
The best way to get noticed? Learn how the mine works first—that’s the skill employers value most.
Myth 2 : A FIFO job will lead to a Mining Job (The Magic Bean Plan)
The Myth of “Just Getting Your Foot in the Door”
Many people believe that once they get into mining, they can move up easily—but that’s not the reality. This common misconception, which I call the “Magic Bean Plan,” rarely works.
🚫 Why It Doesn’t Work for Most People:
- Only a small percentage manage to make the jump from civil, shutdown, or utility roles into actual production mining jobs.
- Poaching rules have been in place for over 25 years, making it incredibly difficult to transition between different industry streams.
- 95% of workers end up stuck in the area they first entered, with limited options to move into true mining roles.
✅ What Works Instead?
To secure a production mining job, it’s crucial to start in the right area from the beginning. Understanding how the mine operates and aligning your skills with what employers actually want is key to long-term success.
How Poaching Rules Keep Workers Trapped in Utility Roles
Most mining sites enforce poaching rules, requiring workers to leave the site for months (typically six months) before they can return under a different employer.
This restriction means many utility workers become stuck in low-paying roles:
- They can’t switch jobs within the same site due to contractual limitations.
- Mining contacts they’ve made can’t help them secure positions on other sites.
- Without industry knowledge and the right career strategy, moving into mining roles becomes difficult.
Understanding these rules early can help new starters make better decisions about where—and how—they enter the industry, ensuring they don’t get locked into roles with limited upward mobility.
Myth 3: All the entry level jobs are in Iron Ore and Coal
Shifting Job Opportunities in the Mining Industry
With automation advancing in strip mines across the iron ore industry and Queensland coal sector, entry-level job opportunities have shifted within mining.
Today, the majority of entry-level positions are found in Gold, Copper, Silver, Zinc, and Base Metals mines—most of which are underground operations located across Australia.
Understanding this shift can help new starters focus their job search on the right sectors and maximize their chances of securing a role in mining.
Shifting Focus: Recruitment Trends in Western Australia
In Western Australia, the shift in mining job opportunities is evident in the changing focus of recruitment companies. Many have moved away from Iron Ore and are now targeting hardrock underground mining, recognizing the long-term demand for skilled workers in this sector.
This strategic pivot aligns with the industry’s future needs, as underground mines continue to require a steady influx of employees for years to come.
📌 Learn More About Automation in Mining: Click here
Myth 4 : The S11 is nationally recognised
Understanding the S11 Induction
The S11 induction is only recognised in Queensland and is specifically required for jobs on Queensland coal mines.
🚫 It is NOT recognised by mining inspectorates in other states.
🚫 It is NOT required for Hardrock Gold, Copper, or Base Metal mines—even those in Queensland.
Before investing in the S11, it’s worth checking job ads to confirm whether employers in your target sector actually require it.
Why the S11 Won’t Help for Hardrock Mining Jobs
Just like RII tickets, the S11 induction can hurt your chances when applying for hardrock mining roles outside Queensland coal mines.
🛑 Employers see it as irrelevant—imagine sending a resume that says, “Hire me because I completed a Queensland coal induction,” even though the job is in a NSW hardrock mine. These applications get culled instantly.
✅ Proper research and industry-specific training make a huge difference. Understanding exactly what employers are looking for ensures you apply with the right qualifications—giving you a real chance at landing the job.
Myth 5: The fantasy mining job, driving big haul trucks up north.
The Fate of the Fantasy Job in the Age of Automation
The mining industry is changing, and automation is transforming traditional roles—especially in Iron Ore operations. Middle management has made it a priority to replace truck drivers with automated systems, drastically reducing entry-level opportunities in these roles.
For a deeper look into what’s happening, watch the video below.
Gold & Copper Mines: Where the Jobs Are in 2025
If you’re looking to break into mining, Gold and Copper mines are where the opportunities are. To get started, investing in the right education and preparation is key.
Training Packages to Help You Get a Job
📌 DIY Introduction to Underground Mining
✅ Learn essential industry knowledge.
✅ Step-by-step resume instructions (takes about 2 hours to complete).
✅ Interview prep questions to boost your chances.
✅ Direct mining company application details.
💡 Want a professionally crafted resume? Check out our 3 Step Plan package, for expert guidance.
📌 Workready Package – Access to the DIY Training content and full Support from a WA Ticketed Shift Boss
✅ Industry knowledge coaching with mining-specific Q&A sessions.
✅ Resume rework to maximize employer interest.
✅ Interview prep, including a mock interview.
✅ Personalized plan on where and how to get in.
Starting your mining career is easier when you have the right tools—these packages ensure you’re prepared to land a job and build a long-term career in the industry.
Got Questions? We’re Here to Help!
If you’d like more information or want to chat with someone directly, simply leave your details on our enquiry form, and we’ll be in touch.
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