Hold it right there! If you’ve been thinking about jumping into the mining and manufacturing industries, there are a few things you have to consider. Whether you’re chasing the big bucks in mining or the steady gig in manufacturing, you’ve got to know the costs, how long it takes, and what kind of gigs you can land once you’re all set. But here’s the good news: once you’re equipped with the right certifications, you’re set to tap into some of the most in-demand jobs in Australia. Don’t stress! We’ll break it down for you so you can figure out which path is gonna get you ahead.
Tickets and Licenses
The first thing you want to think about is your licenses. You can’t get a career in these industries without them.
Mining Licenses:
Mining roles often require specific certifications such as:
- HR Licenses for operating heavy vehicles, costing around $1,000–$2,000 and taking 2–5 days.
- Confined Spaces Tickets, essential for underground mining, cost $150–$250 and require 1–2 training days.
- Machinery Operation Tickets for dump trucks, excavators, and cranes, which vary between $1,500 and $3,000.
Manufacturing Licenses:
In manufacturing, certifications tend to focus on precision and machinery operation:
- Forklift Licenses, costing $100–$500, are quick to earn within a few days.
- Welding Certifications, depending on skill level, can cost between $400 and $2,000.
- Electrical or Technical Certifications, often more expensive, reflect the growing demand for automation skills.
As we mentioned earlier, it’s important to remember that some licenses/certifications can be used for both industries. For example:
- HR Licenses allow mobility between mining and manufacturing for roles involving vehicle operation.
- First Aid Certificates and safety training are universally required for workplace compliance.
- Leadership Skills can position you for supervisory roles in either sector.
These overlaps mean switching industries might require minimal additional training, making career transitions smoother.
Which Career Path Should You Choose?
Say you’ve already gotten your tickets. What’s next? Choosing the best career path for you. There are three things that you might want to consider:
High Earnings Potential: Mining roles often come with higher pay but may require relocation to remote areas. Some examples include:
- Drillers Offsider: Starting at $90,000/year
- Drillers: $150,000/year for experienced professionals.
- HD Mechanics: Up to $350,000/year
- Labourers: Starting at $90,000/year.
Work-Life Balance: Manufacturing jobs may offer more stability and urban opportunities. Here are some jobs that you may consider:
- Machine Operators: $60,000–$90,000/year.
- Welders and Technicians: $75,000–$100,000/year.
- Supervisors and Managers: Up to $120,000/year.
Future-Proof Skills: Consider emerging trends and how automation or green technologies align with your goals.
- Mining:
The mining sector leans heavily toward automation, sustainability, and high-tech machinery. Professionals with tech-oriented skills or training in environmental compliance may find new opportunities. - Manufacturing:
Manufacturing is seeing growth in robotics, 3D printing, and green technologies. Specialised technical certifications in these areas will likely become critical for career advancement.
Both industries have advantages, and choosing the right one depends on your career aspirations, skills, and willingness to invest in necessary training.
Where to Start
Alright, you’re set to kick things off!
If it all feels a bit much, start with something simple like a transferable ticket. These give you options to try out both industries without locking yourself in, making it easier to figure out what works best for you.
Here are some handy tickets to have when you apply for a career in mining. And if you’re looking for more tips on navigating the mining and manufacturing industries, we’ve got a bunch of articles to help you hit the ground running. Whether it’s advice on what certifications to prioritise or insider tips on breaking into the industry, we’ll guide you to make sure you’re set for success.
