Trainee Operator - Surface Extraction

Trainee Operator - Surface Extraction

Programmed Apprenticeships & Traineeships, in partnership with Leichhardt, is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Trainee Operator - Surface Extraction to join the team at the Lake MacLeod operation in Carnarvon, Western Australia.

Build Your Future with Leichhardt

If you're ready to start a rewarding career within the salt and gypsum industry, this is your opportunity to learn from an experienced team while earning a nationally recognised qualification. This traineeship provides hands-on experience across one of Australia's unique salt and gypsum operations, offering exposure to the full production process and the opportunity to build a long-term career in the resources industry.

What's on Offer

• Full-time fixed term paid traineeship
• TAFE training leading to a nationally recognised Certificate III in Surface Extraction qualification
• Mentoring and support from industry professionals
• A safe, supportive and team-focused workplace
• The opportunity to build the foundation for a long-term career in the mining and resources industry

About You

We're looking for someone who:

• Residential to Carnarvon
• Is reliable, motivated and eager to learn
• Ability to work 12-hour shift rosters, including weekends, public holidays and nightshift
• Can work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Is committed to working safely and maintaining a positive attitude
• Is willing to follow instructions, take initiative and continually develop new skills
• Holds a current driver's licence

Your Role

As a Trainee Operator, you'll gain experience across a variety of operational areas, beginning in Production and progressing into Processing as your skills and confidence develop.

Throughout the program, you'll build an understanding of how different parts of the operation work together and gradually take on greater responsibilities.

During the traineeship, you will:

• Assist with the recovery, movement and processing of salt and gypsum
• Safely operate and maintain a range of mobile equipment used across the operation
• Work in large outdoor production areas and processing facilities
• Develop an understanding of the end-to-end production process, from extraction through to finished product
• Follow safe work practices, procedures and industry standards
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, operators and team members
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across the site

Equipment Experience

During the traineeship, you'll receive training and practical experience operating a variety of heavy machinery and equipment, including:

• Loaders
• Dozers
• Graders
• Water carts
• Prime movers and haulage equipment

Why Choose Leichhardt?

Leichhardt is committed to developing the next generation of talent within Carnarvon. You'll gain valuable hands-on experience, receive quality mentoring, and work in an environment that values safety, teamwork and professional development.

What You Need to Know Before Applying

• This traineeship is a 24-month fixed-term contract
• Upon successful completion, you'll have developed a strong foundation for the next stage of your career.
• The broad experience gained throughout the traineeship may provide pathways into roles including Surface Extraction Operator, Production Operator, Mobile Plant Operator, General Works Operator, Marine Operator, Loader Operator, Dozer Operator, Mine Services Operator, Leading Hand or other opportunities within the mining and resources industry.

If you're ready to start your career as a Trainee Operator -Surface Extraction, we'd love to hear from you.

Location: Carnarvon, WA

Position: Full-Time Fixed term Traineeship

Start Date: Early 2027

Applications close: Sunday 11th October

Interview Dates: Must be able to attend interview in Carnarvon between 19th October and 21st October

Please note: Programmed reserves the right to close applications before the advertised closing date.

Who we are

As one of Australia's largest employers, we work with great companies all around Australia and New Zealand to give you the best opportunities to work when and where you want to.

At Programmed, we are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment which values and respects diverse styles, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.

We welcome and encourage women, people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent and people from diverse backgrounds to apply.

So it's over to you. If you would like to join our team, APPLY now.

To learn more about working with Programmed, we encourage you to visit our website.

Consultant

Dom.OBryan@programmed.com.au

Reference number: 78130
Profession:Apprenticeships & TraineeshipsMining, Oil & Gas

Company: Programmed / PERSOLKELLY
Date posted: 25th Sep, 2026