Choosing the Right FIFO Employer

Fly in fly out or FIFO work is a popular choice for many Australians seeking rewarding opportunities in mining, oil and gas, construction and other remote industries. The lifestyle comes with its unique benefits such as high pay, career growth and adventure. However, it also has challenges, particularly because of the time spent away from home and the demanding nature of the work.

Choosing the right FIFO employer is crucial not just for your career success but also for your overall wellbeing. The employer you select will have a big impact on your daily work environment, your safety, your roster and how supported you feel as a worker. Making an informed decision can save you stress and frustration down the track.

This blog will guide you through the key factors to consider when looking for FIFO roles so you can find an employer that suits your needs and ambitions.

Understand What Matters Most to You

Before you start applying for FIFO jobs, take a moment to think about what matters most to you in an employer. Is it safety standards, roster flexibility, pay and benefits, career progression opportunities or company culture?

Everyone’s priorities are different. Some people might value a roster that allows more time at home, while others may be willing to sacrifice that for higher pay. For some, working for a company with strong safety records and good worker support is essential.

Having a clear picture of your priorities will help you evaluate potential employers more effectively.

Research the Company’s Reputation

One of the best ways to understand what it is like to work for a FIFO employer is to research their reputation. Look for reviews on websites like Glassdoor or Seek where current and former employees share their experiences.

You can also check social media pages and forums dedicated to FIFO workers. Sometimes these platforms reveal insights into how the company treats its staff, how it handles rosters, accommodation, and any ongoing issues.

Keep an eye out for any red flags such as poor safety records, frequent complaints about roster changes or lack of support for mental health. Conversely, positive feedback about management, communication and worker wellbeing is a good sign.

Consider the Roster Options

Roster arrangements are a defining feature of FIFO work. Different employers offer different roster patterns, ranging from one week on one week off, to two weeks on two weeks off, or even more extended cycles.

Think about what roster will suit your lifestyle and family situation best. Some workers find shorter rosters easier to manage emotionally and logistically, while others prefer longer stints on site for more consecutive days off at home.

Ask potential employers about their typical roster options and how flexible they are. Find out if there are penalties or benefits for working overtime or swapping shifts.

Understanding your roster expectations ahead of time can avoid surprises and help maintain your work-life balance.

Evaluate Safety and Wellbeing Policies

FIFO work can involve hazardous environments, so safety must always be a top priority. Investigate how seriously a company takes health and safety.

Look for employers that invest in regular training, enforce strict safety protocols, and have good incident response plans. A company that encourages workers to speak up about safety concerns without fear of repercussions shows respect for its staff.

Wellbeing policies are also important. FIFO work is demanding mentally and physically. Employers that provide access to mental health resources, counselling services and recreational facilities show they care about their workers beyond just productivity.

Assess Accommodation and Facilities

Accommodation is a big part of FIFO life since you will spend many days living on site or in nearby camps. The quality of housing and facilities can greatly affect your comfort and overall experience.

Ask about room types, cleanliness, amenities like gyms and recreational areas, internet access and food options. Some camps offer single rooms, others shared rooms or even dormitory style living.

Knowing what to expect allows you to prepare mentally and physically for your time on site. Good accommodation can help reduce fatigue and improve your mood when away from home.

Understand Pay and Benefits Clearly

While pay is not everything, it is an important factor when choosing a FIFO employer. Look closely at the base pay rates as well as allowances for travel, accommodation, overtime and any bonuses.

Find out how and when you will be paid, and if there are penalties for missing shifts or changing rosters.

Some employers offer benefits like health insurance, training reimbursements, or company vehicles. These extras can add value and make a difference over time.

Check Career Development Opportunities

FIFO work can be a stepping stone to a long and rewarding career. The right employer will offer opportunities to learn new skills, gain certifications and move into more senior or specialised roles.

Ask about training programs, mentoring and support for further education. An employer invested in your growth is more likely to keep you motivated and engaged.

Even if you plan to stay in FIFO roles long term, career development options improve job satisfaction and future prospects.

Think About Location and Travel

The location of the worksite impacts your travel arrangements and time away from home. Some sites are more remote and require longer flights or bus trips.

Ask about the travel process, who pays for travel, and how long it takes to get to and from the site. Also find out about travel delays and how the company manages these.

If you have family commitments, consider how travel time fits with your roster and home life.

Meet the Team and Management if Possible

If you get the chance, meeting current workers and managers can give you a real feel for the company culture. How staff interact, how management communicates and the general atmosphere can say a lot about the work environment.

During interviews or site visits, ask questions about teamwork, conflict resolution and how issues are handled.

A supportive, respectful and transparent workplace usually leads to higher job satisfaction.

Understand Contract Terms Fully

FIFO contracts can vary widely so read yours carefully before signing. Make sure you understand your hours, pay, leave entitlements, notice periods and any probationary periods.

If anything is unclear, ask for clarification. It’s better to know what you are agreeing to upfront rather than face surprises later.

Keep a copy of your contract and related documents for reference.

Listen to Your Gut Feeling

Finally, trust your instincts. If something feels off during the application or interview process, pay attention to those feelings. Sometimes what a company presents publicly differs from what workers experience.

Choosing the right FIFO employer is a significant decision that impacts your career and life. Taking the time to do thorough research, ask questions and reflect on your own priorities will help you make the best choice.

Final Thoughts

FIFO work can offer fantastic opportunities but it also demands resilience and careful decision making. Finding the right employer who aligns with your values, offers good support, and provides clear expectations sets you up for success.

Take the time to weigh all factors from safety to pay to culture before committing to a FIFO role. The more informed you are, the better your chances of enjoying a positive and rewarding FIFO career.

Remember that your wellbeing matters and the right employer will recognise this too. If you know what you want and communicate clearly, you can find a FIFO employer that feels like the right fit for you.

If you’d like personalised support—whether it’s professional Resume and Cover Letter writing, FIFO Resume, Employer Sponsorship Resumes and Cover Letters, SEEK and LinkedIn profile optimisation, Selection Criteria for Government Jobs, one-on-one Job Interview Coaching or Other Professional Writing Services —call us on 0423 686 904 or email us at hello@adriennasresumes.com