Mining. How to get your foot in the door?

[YoYo]

I would just apply. My dh is in the mining industry, he sells the stuff they dig up.... It's a good industry to be in on! Just try and try. Go to recruitment agencies and ask if there's any pre-requisite to get in. Good luck

[Trillian]

Some mines will do their own training on site, so apart from a medical there probably isn't a lot that he really needs. I know the mine DH works at doesn't require any previous experience if you just want to be a machine operator because they will train you. If he is looking at more the maintenance side of things, then he will require some qualifications for that. You said yesterday he's sent his CV to the recruitment agencies? Then perhaps get him to give those places a follow up call and see what happens next and what he should do to increase his chances.

[Ozstar]

Are you in QLD? Almost all the mines in QLD want applicants to have done their generic mining induction course as well as first aid these days. I agree with Trillian about following up with the recruitment agencies and asking them for some tips on the best way to get in.

[*Ang*]

My DH, BIL and dad both work north-west WA. TBH I wouldn't even bother with a medical as all the companies have their own specific doctors they go to and will make you go through their own so you will only be wasting your money and time.

I hate to say it also (I know I must sound very negative here but it's not mean't to be), but most of the time it's not what you know it's who you know. And you should perhaps focus on one or two specific occupations as there are some tickets (like forklift licence etc) that you could get before applying. It's no use simply saying "I want to be employed in the mining industry" you need to really know what job you want and research that.

[Erin_25]

I agree with above, perhaps ring and speak to some agencies and see what he might need to do and focus on one particular area.

My DH has worked for several years now in the industry but is a trained Diesel Mechanic. There are many jobs available it comes down to what you are willing to do and what you know. My brother really struggled to get in (he wanted to drive graders) but he didn't have the experience, he had to take jobs doing other things for some time before he got the job he wanted and this required lots of travel around.

We to have moved a few times in 5yrs for the job, or there is fly in/out roster systems.

Where are you located? We know plenty of people in the industry in all different states.