Frequently Asked Questions

What do we do?

At TP Human Capital we specialise in Mining Recruitment and work closely with a number of Mining Companies. We have requirements to fill positions that have been made vacant for many reasons (leave, promotion, resignation, busy times). They need applicants with demonstrated skills for their positions to minimise disruption to their clients’ operations.

When working for a recruitment company you have dual responsibilities: the recruitment company is your employer (pays your wages) but you work with, and under the direct supervision of, the host employer (mining client).

Do I need experience to get into the Mines?

We have various mining clients who have different requirements and recruitment needs. Some trades may not require mining experience ie. Auto Electrician, Diesel fitter etc and other roles do.

A select number of clients will take “green” candidates and train you up in entry roles however, those roles are few and far between.

If you research the mining company you are trying to get into they generally will have a cadetship programme (if you qualify) you can apply on their website directly or they will have information on where you can gather more information.

Malia one of our Labour Hire staff working as a Lab Tech

What is the best way to get my foot in the door with the Mines?

Through a temp role you can gain exposure to the mining industry gaining the experience you need in order to secure a permanent role. To give you the best chance of securing a temp contract you will need the relevant tickets required ie. Forklift ticket, HR license, rigging or whatever it may be for your chosen area.

First things first, researching the number of roles within in the mining industry and identifying what role you want, and what you need to do to get there will help you figure out what initial tickets/training you will require.

Majority of roles do require a forklift ticket and there are numerous companies around town who offer this training and subsidised courses with multiple tickets and training as a package.
We recommend Industry Training QLD who are a great local provider. (hyperlink to their website) https://industrytrainingqld.com.au/

 

Temp roles vs Permanent positions

Generally, most mining companies won’t put you directly on to their books right off the bat, you will need to prove yourself and your skill set. Temp roles are the best “try before you buy” option as frustrating as that can be for you as a candidate but if you keep your head down, work hard and support your crew gaining an extend contract or the golden ticket, that permanent role shouldn’t be hard for you.

If I get my medical before hand will that help me secure the role?

Every site has specific company paperwork and requests depending on the position you are applying for and some companies won’t accept outside medicals that haven’t been completed on their specific paperwork. Depending on the company, their specific requirements and whether it’s a coal board medical or a metalliferous medical will factor into the specifics of what medical you’ll need. Honestly, don’t waste your money with a premedical until you either secure the role or know what you are required to have.


What can I expect on Site?

Mine sites are heavy industrial areas that are commonly situated in remote locations (no corner stores if you forget something) Restrictive conditions apply on all sites and visitors are not permitted except by invitation so you family/friends cannot visit you whilst you’re on shift.

The camp area and mess facilities are designed to make your shift comfortable. Most sites provide a range of facilities ie. Gym and classes, bar, meals, trivia nights etc.

How do I get to Site?

Where sites are remotely located and do not have alternate transport (i.e. FI/FO facilities) you will be required to provide your own transport. This means factoring in the possibility of driving home after a 14-day roster of 12-hour shifts.

Some remote sites have very limited access and so offer fly-in/fly- out facilities.

Consider:

  • Most flights leave very early in the morning
  • You will often have to fly in small planes for at least two hours (the smaller the plane; the longer it takes)
  • Limited to 10 kg total luggage per bag
  • If the site airport is closed because of extreme weather conditions, you’re locked in. So, you could end up spending some of your rostered time off on site until your next time off.
  • Emergency travel is always available (e.g. injury/death of immediate family members)

Is living locally an option

Some mine sites are located in the vicinity of local townships and do not need camp and fly-in/fly-out facilities.

In these cases, you will be required to relocate and reside at that township while working on site. Transport to/from the mine site is generally provided.

Will I have WIFI or mobile phone coverage?

Depending on the site and what provider you are with. Most larger mining corporations will have wifi and a Telstra tower however, not all sites are this lucky.  Mobile telephone coverage is usually very limited to limited; land-line and internet access may be available.

 What types of rosters are there?

Mines usually operate 24 hours per day, every day of the year. Rosters differ from site to site and even internally from area to area to meet each department’s objectives. Rosters are usually set and are non-negotiable. Meaning you will have to work Public Holidays if you are on roster at the time.

  • Roster configurations include: 14/7 (14 days on; 7 off); 7/7; 8/6; 4/3; 6/2; 2 months on/1 month off
  • Shift lengths: usually 10 to 12.5 hours (depends on site requirements). Shifts can be all day; all night; or split shifts

What do I wear to Site and whilst I’m on Site?

All sites—and different areas on site—have their own minimum requirements. High Vis uniforms are usually mandatory and will be supplied prior to site entry and carrying out most tasks.

Again, I know we’re sounding like a broken record but it all depends on the Site you will be working. Some companies only allow 10kgs on the flight so your steel capped boots will take the majority of that weight so you will need to wear your uniform on the plane in order to get all your gear to site.

Other companies will allow checked in luggage of 10kg and carry on so you can potentially wear your civilian clothes on the plane and to the mess (this will all  be outlined in your welcome booklet).

PPE may include steel cap boots, hard hat, protective glasses, gloves and ear protection. You will be informed prior to going to site what PPE you need to provide and what will be provided by the company. You will always be shown the correct use of PPE.

It is up to each individual to ensure uniforms and PPE are stored and maintained in constantly useable condition or replaced.