Success Stories

Critical Worker Shortage in Australia’s Mining Sector

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Future mining projects could be in jeopardy as the industry faces a severe shortage of workers.  Younger generations are being deterred by the problematic environmental reputation of the mining sector. 

 

The mining industry is facing its worst skills crisis with Gen Z turning their backs on the sector due to environmental concerns. 

 

A report released by the Australian Resources and Energy Employer Association (AREEA) in July 2022 revealed that over the next five years, the mining industry would need 24,000 new workers to uphold projects across the country with those at-risk including coal, gold and critical minerals. 

 

Currently, the association is battling a staff shortage, making it difficult to maintain current operations at full productivity. Techforce explained one of the main obstacles in recruiting new staff is appealing to young people who are deterred by the problematic environmental reputation of the mining industry. 

 

With environmental sustainability a global focus, the mining industry has been forced to rebrand. Techforce said the sector is working hard to reposition itself and improve its environmental and social performance. 

 

Programs are being launched targeting young talent that encourage innovation and creative thinking in a pivoting sector. To appeal to potential candidates, Techforce said the industry needs to work with government, unions and education providers. 

 

As one of the leading labour hire companies, Techforce specialises in labour hire Perth and throughout states and cities across Australia, matching quality candidates with available positions across a variety of industries, including mining, helping to resolve staffing concerns. 

 

Beginning with labour hire in Adelaide in 2010, Techforce has now expanded into every Australian state. Partnering with clients to gain a solid understanding of their business and culture, Techforce ensures every worker employed is a perfect match. 

 

Employers and job seekers can find out more by contacting Techforce here. Looking for your next opportunity? Find out more about our vacancies. 


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Mining is one of the first industries people look at when they want to increase their income—fast. Maybe you’re coming from construction , logistics, warehousing, or a trade and thinking, If I’m working long shifts and doing tough work, I want the pay to reflect it. Or maybe you’re already in mining and you’re asking a different version of the same question: How do I level up from here? Which roles actually pay more—and what do I need to move into them? That’s why so many Australians search: what is the highest paying job in mining? Here’s the key: the highest pay in mining isn’t only tied to leadership titles. In many operations, the best-paid roles are the ones that are hard to fill, safety-critical, highly licensed, or technically specialised —especially on FIFO rosters, remote sites, shutdowns, and underground operations . At Techforce Personnel , we help people enter mining for better pay and help experienced workers progress into higher-paying roles across Australia. Below, we’ll break down the roles that often earn the most, what drives mining salaries, and realistic pathways to get there. What Is the Highest Paying Job in Mining (Really)? There isn’t one single role that is always the top earner across every mine site. Mining pay can shift depending on: commodity (iron ore, coal, gold, lithium, etc.) open cut vs underground operations site location and remoteness roster type (FIFO, DIDO, residential) overtime, allowances, and penalties how scarce the skill is (workforce demand) the licences, tickets, and safety responsibilities required So rather than chasing one “magic job title,” it helps to focus on the types of roles that consistently sit at the top end of pay: roles that combine scarce skills + high responsibility + tougher conditions . 
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What Are Entry Level Mining Jobs?

March 2, 2026
Discover entry level mining jobs in Australia, the skills employers look for, and practical ways to start your mining career with Techforce Personnel.