Career Pathways

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hydrogen energy industry.

Getting started on your career path to a great job in the Mining or METS sector may be easier than you think. Whether you are starting out or looking for an opportunity to transition into the sector, if you have the relevant expertise and the right attitude rewarding jobs can be found.

The range of career opportunities in the mining and METS sector may be greater than you think.

Range of Industries

Mining and METS reaches a wide range of industry sectors. STEM industries drive technical innovation and improvement while other industries provide essential services equipment and technology.

Relevant Expertise

Whatever your academic, technical or work experience and training - if you are able to make the connection to the requirements of the jobs you are interested in you can make the transition to Mining/METS opportunities - whether it’s qualifications in surveying, engineering, nanotechnology, digital communications, big data analysis or plant operations!

Right attitude

The modern mining industry and the METS sector supporting it are committed to improving efficiency, productivity and safety. At the same time the industry continues to develop strategies to minimise environmental impact and support the communities in which they operate while providing a rewarding work environment.

If you are:

excited by innovation and improvement
are a team player
able to embrace and support change
committed to safety

this could be the sector for you!

Pathways

Getting started and progressing your Mining and METS career can be achieved through four main pathways. Each pathway represents a combination of education/training and work experience. Education and training will continue to be key factors of your pathway, to stay current in your industry and position yourself to be considered for promotional and advancement opportunities.

UNIVERSITY PATHWAY

This pathway applies for students undertaking tertiary (university degree) studies:

The Mining and METS sector provides one of the fastest growing opportunities for graduate employment in Australia. These careers not only offer very competitive salary packages but chances for rapid advancement and promotion, enabling young graduates to kick-start a successful international career.

Professions in high demand include the geosciences (geologists, geophysicists), engineering (mining, geotechnical, environmental, mechanical, electrical, electronic), environmental science, information technology, nursing and allied health, data analytics, communication, business and commerce.

Link for University and Course Information: Universities in Australia

APPRENTICESHIP PATHWAY

This pathway applies for students undertaking an Australian Apprenticeship, which combines nationally recognised training with on the job training:

Most mining companies are seeking qualified and skilled tradespeople who deliver high standards of certified service, with a strong focus on safety in the workplace.

An apprenticeship is a traditional way of learning a trade such as electrical, mechanical, automotive or plumbing. Apprentices are employed full-time and receive on-the-job-structured training from an experienced tradesperson as well as classroom-style theory and practical training at a registered training organisation. This could be a TAFE or an enterprise or private provider. The position normally lasts for four years and the salary is at a percentage of a full time tradesperson award wage.

Traineeships operate in a similar way in that they provide structured on-the-job training while being paid a part-time or full-time wage.

Both apprenticeships and traineeships offer a head start into an industry and a stepping stone into further education or a professional career. The qualifications are also recognised nationally enabling you to travel and work.

You can start an apprenticeship and traineeship from the age of 15 either at school (school-based apprenticeships) or as a school leaver.

Given the high wages and good conditions that many tradespeople have these days, it is not surprising that apprenticeships as well as traineeships are highly sought after and very competitive. Statistics currently indicate that people with a trade can go on to earn as much (if not more than) as those with a university degree.

Link for Apprenticeship and Traineeship Information: Australian Apprenticeships

VOCATIONAL EDUCATION PATHWAY

This pathways applies for students undertaking a vocational qualification (Certificate II – Advanced Diploma) that is not an Australian Apprenticeship:

Vocational education provides opportunities for training and development for those looking to get started on their career path, advance in their career or transition to a different career path. Qualifications, skill sets and units of competency are industry specific and focussed on delivering competency outcomes aligned to job roles and, in some cases, licensing and regulatory requirements.

Link for Vocational Training and Provider Information: Vocational Training

TRANSITIONING PATHWAY

This pathway applies if you have experience from another industry sector and are looking to transfer your skills to Mining and METS:

In addition to technical skills from other industries, any job role required to run a business will also be a requirement in Mining and METS companies.

Your experience from other industries can be highly valued by employers wanting specific expertise across all areas of the business. With an understanding of the language, priorities and values of the sector you can make the transition. Get started with the Hot Rubble Mining and METS overviews and Industry Terminology. Think about how your experience, skills and knowledge can be applied to support the priorities of the sector.

Link for Application Advice: Winning a job