Graduate Opportunities

Graduate Mining Engineer Kate Lennox may be a long way from home but she’s building her future with BHP Billiton. For the past 12 months, the Sydney-sider has been working in a graduate position for BHP Billiton Iron Ore and based in the remote mining community of Newman in Western Australia’s Pilbara region.

She’s about to commence her second year at Mt Whaleback, the world’s biggest single-pit open-cut iron ore mine, and despite the remote location, she wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I’ve had a great time living and working in a small remote town,” says Kate. “It’s given me the opportunity to gain invaluable experience in many different areas and develop my career.”

For Kate, the decision to apply for – and accept – a graduate position at BHP Billiton was easy.

“I knew BHP Billiton had a graduate program that had won awards,” says Kate. “But I was really attracted by how structured the program was and that you would be supported the whole way through – from the moment you accept the letter of offer.”

“From the very beginning of the recruitment process, dealing with BHP Billiton has felt personal. Before I accepted a position, I was invited to visit the site, meet my potential supervisor, and find out exactly what my role would be. It was a fantastic connection to have right from the start.”

For Kate, it’s been a seamless transition from university to work. Her role as a graduate mining engineer has built on her technical knowledge and given her a great opportunity to gain real experience onsite.

“In my first year as a graduate, I’ve driven trucks, worked on a blast crew and a drill rig. My favourite experience was working with the blast crew. It has been very challenging but I’ve learned so much and it’s allowing me to develop as an engineer.”

“The Graduate Program also really builds your leadership skills,” says Kate. “I’ve met graduates from other disciplines and other sites, which has allowed me to develop a great network of colleagues.”

“The five-day residential at Melbourne Business School in Mt Eliza is also a highlight. It’s an amazing and important experience for all new graduates.”

As she begins her second year as a Graduate Mining Engineer, Kate is now planning for her future.

“BHP Billiton is supporting me through my Quarry Manager’s exam which will be really beneficial for my career,” says Kate.

“Working for BHP Billiton and being a part of the Graduate Program has provided such a great opportunity to learn and experience every aspect of the business and the industry.”

BHP Billiton’s Foundations for Graduates Program

BHP Billiton’s two-year Foundations for Graduates Program moves graduates seamlessly from study to work and provides a unique insight into our business. You’ll learn from the world’s leading business schools, access executive coaching, take part in intensive residential programs and gain on-the-job experience analysing and solving real business issues. You will also have a unique opportunity to work across teams, businesses, geographic regions and time zones.

Throughout the program you will develop your decision-making and communication skills. You will also work with leading experts across world class operations and access the latest technologies and equipment. By the end of the program, you will have developed technical and critical leadership skills and established long-lasting professional networks that will contribute to your ongoing career journey with us.

For the past three years, our program has also been recognised as the Best Graduate Development Program in Australia.

If you would like to find out more about BHP Billiton’s Foundations for Graduates Program or apply, please visit www.bhpbilliton.com/graduates.