We have a growing skills shortage in this country unlike we’ve ever seen. We have a ramped up mining production boom, mixed with an increase in mining construction and expansion. Not to mention new mineral finds and record gold prices, coupled with a huge government commitment to stimulating the economy via infrastructure projects nationwide. Check out the Federal Government’s massive $110 billion investment into infrastructure over the next 10 years.
This has all contributed significantly to the skills shortage, particularly within the resources industry in Western Australia and other parts of the country. During the COVID border lockdowns in the last few months, there were concerns the issue would exacerbate.
With so many jobs going in construction in the resources industry, there’s never been a better time to reconsider your career, and chances are, you might already have the desired skills, or it won’t take you long to get them. And now that many borders are open, it’s time to capitalise or rethink training options.
So, what are these desired skills that could set you up for the long-term? We see them in three key areas:
#1 Anything mechanical!
In new projects or those already in production there are so many literal moving parts; equipment needs continuous maintenance and upkeep, and experienced people are needed to manage it.
There is more and more pressure for companies to show better due diligence when it comes to operational standards, so there are currently ample opportunities to work on shutdowns where sites shut for a period of time either to close, or to undergo updates or maintenance. Shutdowns may be a perfect opportunity to dip your toe into FIFO to see if it works for you, or find something close to home.
If you’re an electrician, mechanical fitter, diesel mechanic or light vehicle mechanic, or have a similar trade, you are a desired candidate. Don’t yet have the qualifications? This boom won’t be short-lived, so you could begin a trade apprenticeship now to pave a way for your career to begin in a few years’ time.
#2 Varied services
Whether it’s working on a new project or a project expansion, there’s many jobs up for grabs in the ‘varied services’ category. This is what we categorise as for anyone who loves working with dirt, such as within drainage or sewage systems, pipework, potable water, optic fibre installations or earthworks.
The industry is currently crying out for Poly Welders in particular, who are experts in HDPE welding, along with anyone with specific tickets, such as to drive excavators, loaders, dump trucks or water carts. If you have a Heavy Rigid (HR) licence in particular, you could be a real contender.
#3 Specialised skills
We are always looking for those with specialised skills to support on expansion, maintenance or on new sites. This may include electricians with specific specialties, plumbers, formwork carpenters, and concreters who are needed for projects across any phase.
No matter what your current or future skills are, there is a job in the resources industry for you. We recommend beginning your research now to decide what you’re interested in; identify the skills or qualifications you currently have and what you are interested in getting.
If you have any questions on the recruitment process, get in touch with the MACFORCE team via recruitment@macforce.com.au.
ABOUT MACFORCE:
MACFORCE Australia is a recruitment company with heart, focused on changing the way people are employed in Australia, particularly across the mining, construction and civil sector. MACFORCE supports candidates to find suitable work placements, while supporting its clients to find suitable employees.
