Strong outlook for mining graduates

Job opportunities for graduates in the mining and resources sector are increasing on the back of growing demand from overseas markets.

Greg Lane, Chief Executive of the Queensland Resources Council, says more than 20,000 additional jobs are expected to become available by 2020.

Those emerging with degrees in engineering, metallurgy and processing are in high demand, as are graduates of environmental science and civil engineering.

“The major growth area has come out of coal, metal, minerals and processing as the global economy has turned around,” Mr Lane says.

The mining and resources sectors in Queensland, Western Australia and South Australia offer strong employment opportunities, with ample job options for those in NSW too.

“There’s enormous [competition] for skills across the states,” says Mr Lane. “Not only is the demand here and now, but the demand is growing.”

According to a 2009 survey from Graduate Careers Australia, more than 94 per cent of civil engineering graduates and 92 per cent of mining engineering graduates were in full time employment one year after graduating. The national average across all major degree areas was 79 per cent.

The survey also found the median starting salary for engineers to be $57,500. This was the third highest of all degree areas surveyed, behind dentistry and optometry.

South Australian-based mining company OZ Minerals employs up to 15 graduates at any one time across a range of specialties. Past graduates have included mining engineers, metallurgists, geologists, geophysicists, geotechnical engineers, electrical and mechanical engineers.

New recruits are offered competitive salaries with the potential for bonuses and shares, along with on-the-job coaching and mentoring from senior employees.

Major mining organisation BHP Billiton hires around 100 graduates every year, also from a variety of specialisations.

Company spokesperson Kelly Quirke says graduates are accepted from backgrounds such as engineering, business and science qualifications.

While academic background is important, recruiters will also look for exceptional personal achievements and prior exposure to their field.

“We look for graduates who have completed work experience,” says Ms Quirke. “We also look at when they’ve participated in team based activities, for example teaching kids to swim in the summer or [volunteering] at the student association.”

Graduates who show evidence of taking on leadership roles are also valued, Ms Quirke adds.

BHP seeks graduates across all states, but many will need to be willing to work in one of the company’s regional centres for at least part of the two-year program.

For those still studying, work experience and industry scholarships can add critical value to your resume.

The Queensland Resources Council’s website has plenty of information and advice for those keen to kick-start their career in the mining and resources sector.

Head to http://www.qrc.org.au for details about scholarships, vacation work opportunities and career options.