Students, apprentices and graduates

Whether you’ve just finished school, want to learn a trade, graduated from university or are looking for your next big career break, we offer a range of programs to build your successful career in the natural resource sector.

A leading resource sector employer

With a focus on local talent from regional communities, our recruitment programs combine structured career development with on-the-job experience and mentoring from some of the best in the business.

We offer a range of exciting entry-level opportunities across our coal, copper and zinc operations across Australia, including:

2022 at a glance

  • 192

    Graduates

  • 403

    Apprentices

Graduate programs

Each year, we scout for dedicated, curious and confident people to join our team. Glencore offers structured, professional development with on-the-job experience and mentoring from some of the best in the business. Graduate opportunities are available across many disciplines, including:

  • mining engineering

  • geotechnical engineering 

  • metallurgical engineering

  • mechanical engineering

  • surveying

  • environmental science

  • geology/earth science

  • health, safety and hygiene

  • information technology/information systems

  • electrical engineering

  • civil engineering

  • chemical engineering

  • software engineering

  • accounting/commerce

  • community relations

  • human resources/business

  • occupational health and safety

As part of Glencore's two-year graduate program you'll receive the best development possible: by being hands-on and contributing to the operations from day one.

Our structured Graduate Professional Development component will focus on growing your leadership and management skills as well as equipping you with practical industry knowledge. You will rotate through different multi-disciplined teams to get maximum exposure to our business.

We also understand the importance of community in the workplace and offer lots of opportunity to build your internal networks through social activities.

Each year, applications open around February for an end-of the-year intake. Learn more about our Graduate Employment Program.

Hear from our graduates

Glencore’s graduate program broadens young Australians’ opportunities. There’s a lot of career progression available if you’re willing to see a bit more of the country.

Ashleigh Ventura - Underground Supervisor, Development, Mount Isa Mines

As a Glencore Graduate, I felt like a valued team member. I was given responsibility and ownership of exciting projects, and it has stepped me into a career I love.

Rachel Dalla - CHPP Process Engineer, Bulga Coal Complex

Apprenticeships

We’re proud to be one of Australia’s largest natural resource sector employers that offer in-house apprenticeships. Our programs support a variety of trades, including electrical, mechanical, fabrication, plumbing, carpentry and diesel fitting.

Glencore provides an opportunity to earn while you learn. Our four-year Apprenticeship Programs will enable you to develop your skills, gain experience and expand your knowledge with new challenges and opportunities along the way.

Each year we undertake two major recruitment drives:

Hear from our apprentices

An apprenticeship is a great way to learn and earn. For anyone considering an apprenticeship with Glencore, my advice is, go for it. It’s hard work, but it pays off.

Aleisha McCallum - Mechanical Apprentice, Clermont Coal Mine

My apprenticeship has opened up a new life path and opportunity to move back to my hometown. It’s given me financial stability and independence, and I’ve been able to excel in my career choice.

Cameron McCartney - Electrical Apprentice, Mount Isa Mines

Other programs

Indigenous employment programs

Both our Queensland Metals and Australia Coal businesses run supported Indigenous employment programs across Queensland and New South Wales. Participants receive ongoing support, including mentorship from fellow Indigenous employees. Upon completion, they have an opportunity to be selected to progress into full-time employment with us or a contracting partner.

Find out more about these programs:

Vacation programs and scholarships

Our Vacation Employment Program gives you a taste of an exciting future. Experience up to 12 weeks of on-the-job work experience during the university summer break from your bachelor degree studies.

The program allows you to use your theoretical knowledge in a real, working mine environment, while providing a stepping-stone to your graduate career.

School leavers

The Queensland Metals School Leavers Program provides an exciting opportunity for local year 12 students in Mount Isa and Cloncurry to explore a career in the resources industry. It includes opportunities in a variety of roles, including technical services intern, junior labourer and junior administration. 

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