www.graduateopportunities.com >> industry snapshots 43


minerals & energy


Overview The minerals industry is a vital component of the Australian economy. It holds an important place in the history of Australia’s development and continues to make a substantial contribution to national income, exports and employment. A major contributor to employment and wealth within the community, the minerals industry employs a range of graduates with qualifications in engineering, the sciences, business, commerce and, increasingly, information technology. Nevertheless, it is an industry highly susceptible to fluctuations in the global economy.


The work Career opportunities for graduates interested in entering the mining industry are diverse. The dominant professional groups are mining engineers, geologists, geophysicists, surveyors and metallurgists/mineral processing engineers, with smaller numbers of petroleum and chemical engineers. Other professionals provide critical support services, so there are also opportunities for graduates from disciplines such as accounting, business, law, IT and science.


People working in the industry can be involved in a range of activities such as strategic management, exploration, extraction, environmental management, processing of minerals, community and indigenous relations, administration and marketing.


As a major exporter of resource commodities, the


Australian minerals industry has grown significantly in recent times. In the five years to 2010, employment in mining increased by 60.4 per cent (creating 64,900 jobs) – the strongest employment growth of any sector over this period.


The demand for minerals continues to strengthen within China and India, with growth looking to expand in line with their economies.


Skill shortages remain a constant in Australia, which means strong career and employment opportunities for graduates. Overseas opportunities will grow, as many mining companies shift their focus to their own international operations or to the provision of services to international mining companies in response to social shifts.


What you need engineering or science degree (mining-related role)


degree in environmental science, engineering, accounting, IT or marketing (support positions in the industry)


work experience is a component of many degree programs in mining engineering, surveying or geoscience and often leads to graduate employment.


(All figures courtesy of www.skillsinfo.gov.au)


GCA and Graduate Opportunities thank The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (The AusIMM) for assistance with this industry snapshot. For more information, visit www.ausimm.com.au.


industry at a glance: www.joboutlook.gov.au; www.skillsinfo.gov.au


61% employed outside state capitals


18% employment growth between 2011-15


Figures from the Australian Graduate Survey 2009, GCA. Ranges refer to the middle 50 per cent of salaries for bachelor degree graduates with permanent residency, in full-time employment in Australia late ‘08-early ‘09.


money matters: geologist: 62 - 81k


graduate salary ranges for selected relevant occupations($)


geotechnical Engineer: 51 - 60k Mining Engineer: 74 - 96k Petroleum Engineer: 61 - 80k


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