2027 Apprenticeship Program | Blackwater Whitehaven

Whitehaven Coal is proud to be the leading Australian ASX-listed producer of premium-quality coal.
We have four mines in NSW and Daunia and Blackwater coal mines in Queensland's Bowen Basin. For more than 25 years we’ve been on a mission to help the world progress. The resources we produce are powering economies, building industries and supporting local communities. 

Our STRIVE Values connect us and define how we behave. Whitehaven Coal award, recognise and celebrate individuals and teams going above and beyond the requirements of their role to deliver excellent outcomes while demonstrating our values of Safety, Teamwork, Respect, Integrity, Value and Excellence.

Join Our Blackwater 2027 Apprenticeship Program

Whitehaven’s Blackwater Mining Operation is excited to launch our 2027 Apprenticeship Program! This is your chance to kickstart a rewarding career in the mining industry with one of Australia's leading coal producers.

We are offering four-year, fixed-term apprenticeships in the following trades, with nationally recognised qualifications:

• Boilermaking - Certificate III Engineering (Fabrication)
• Diesel Fitters - Certificate III Engineering (Mechanical)
• Auto Electrical - Certificate III Automotive Electrical Technology
• Electrical - Certificate III Electrotechnology Electrical

What You'll Bring:

To be successful in this role, you will need to satisfy the following selection criteria:

• Teamwork: ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Commitment to Training / Development: dedication to on the-job and off the job training
• Safety Awareness: have a strong regard / aptitude for safety and hazard identification
• Problem Solving Skills: ability to solve problems, demonstrate your professional reliability, display the ability to work autonomously and show a strong commitment to this apprenticeship opportunity.

What's on Offer?

• Industry Skills and Experience: gain real industry skills and experience with Whitehaven
• Trade Qualification: complete a certificate III trade qualification
• Mentorship: work alongside skilled tradespeople to develop your skills
• Career Opportunities: potential for ongoing roles with Whitehaven upon completion
• Support: receive ongoing mentoring and support from onsite teams
• Paid Work: earn while you learn with paid work while you study

Important Information:

The Apprentice roles are site-based and there is an expectation that you will live locally in the Blackwater region as company provided accommodation is not provided during your four-year program.

Important Dates:

• An online Information Session will be held on 1 July 2026

• Applications close on 15 July 2026
• Start date for successful applicants January 2027

About Blackwater Mine:

Situated 73 km south east of Emerald, Blackwater Mine is the second largest open cut metallurgical coal mine in the Bowen Basin. This long-life operation began in 1967 and has grown to become one of the longest coal mines in the Southern Hemisphere, with a strike length of 80 km. Blackwater extracts high quality metallurgical and thermal coal for the export market using truck, shovel, loader and dragline.

About Whitehaven:

At Whitehaven we are proud to be the leading Australian ASX listed producer of premium quality coal.  Coal is in our DNA and our work is critical for people, industries and communities around the world.  We operate 6 mines across NSW and QLD, producing metallurgical coal that’s critical for steelmaking and thermal coal.

How to Apply:

To apply for this role, click the ‘Apply for this job’ button and follow the steps to complete your application. Ensure you include a resume and cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

Need Assistance?

If you require assistance with the recruitment process eg. completing forms, interviews or completing online tests, please contact your Recruitment Business Partner at Whitehaven: Hsearle@whitehavencoal.com.au

We are happy to provide any assistance you may need. We look forward to hearing from you.

Next Steps:

After submitting your online application, you may be invited to complete online testing, interviews, and pre-employment medicals.  We'll contact your references if you progress through these recruitment stages.  Please be sure to check your emails (including your junk folder) and respond to missed phone calls, voicemail messages, and text messages during this time.

Join us at Whitehaven and secure your future in the Australian Mining Industry

Why Whitehaven Coal?

Whitehaven Coal is committed to increasing the representation of women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the workplace. We strive for an inclusive workplace that engages people from diverse backgrounds and welcomes diversity of gender, culture and experience.

To be considered for this position you must have the right to work in Australia.

Reward. Opportunity. Recognition. Great Place to Work.