How to Get Started and Build Your FIFO Career

The FIFO lifestyle in Australia offers exciting opportunities for those seeking employment in mining, oil, and construction sites. It provides the chance to earn competitive salaries, develop valuable skills, and experience unique work environments. However, making the transition to FIFO requires careful planning, preparation, and a clear understanding of what the lifestyle entails. If you're thinking about starting a FIFO career, here are some essential tips to help you get started and build a successful career. 

1. Research the Industry and Roles 

The first step in starting your FIFO career is understanding the industries that frequently utilise this type of workforce. In Australia, these sectors include mining, oil and gas, construction, and energy. Each industry has its own unique job roles and requirements. 

• Mining: This is the most prominent sector for FIFO jobs, with a wide range of opportunities for tradespeople, engineers, geologists, and heavy machinery operators. 

• Oil and Gas: Similar to mining, oil and gas sites often rely on FIFO workers for exploration, extraction, and production. 

• Construction: Infrastructure projects such as roads, pipelines, and large-scale building developments often utilize FIFO workers for various trades and operational tasks. 

• Energy: Renewable energy projects and utilities in remote locations also offer FIFO opportunities. 

  
  

Research these industries and identify where your skills, qualifications, and interests align. Knowing which sector best suits your career goals will help you narrow down your job search.

2. Assess Your Skills and Qualifications 

To succeed in FIFO work, it’s important to evaluate your current skillset and determine which transferable skills you can bring to the job. Many FIFO roles require specific skills and qualifications, so here’s what to consider: 

• Trade Skills: Trades such as welding, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work are highly sought after in remote locations. 

• Engineering Roles: Civil, mechanical, and mining engineers are critical for overseeing infrastructure and production sites. 

• Specialist Skills: Roles like geologists, drillers, and environmental scientists are essential in the resources and energy sectors. 

• Logistics and Operations: Jobs involving machinery operation, logistics, and coordination are also popular in FIFO environments. 

Make sure your resume reflects your skills and certifications. If necessary, consider upskilling through relevant training and courses. 

3. Get Certified and Prepare for Safety Requirements 

FIFO work is demanding and comes with stringent safety protocols. Many employers require specific certifications to ensure worker safety, including: 

• Standard 11 (S11): This is essential for mining and construction roles and focuses on health and safety awareness. 

• Construction White Card: Required for anyone working on construction sites. 

• First Aid and CPR: Having basic first aid and CPR certifications is often necessary, particularly in remote environments. 

• Medical Fitness: Most FIFO roles require you to undergo medical assessments, including drug and alcohol testing, to ensure you’re fit for remote work.

Make sure your certifications are current and relevant to the role you're applying for. 

4. Tailor Your Resume for FIFO Jobs 

Your resume is your first impression to potential employers, so it’s important to tailor it to showcase your skills and experience for FIFO roles. Keep the following in mind: 

• Highlight Relevant Experience: Include your past work experience, especially in trades, engineering, logistics, or safety-related fields. Mention any remote work experience if applicable. 

• Certifications and Training: List your safety training, first aid, and technical certifications prominently. 

• Skills and Soft Skills: FIFO employers value strong communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability. Be sure to highlight these soft skills in your resume. 

• Work Roster Readiness: Make sure your resume addresses your ability to adapt to FIFO rosters, including your willingness to work in remote locations and handle the lifestyle. 

Consider reaching out to resume writing professionals, like Adrienna, your Perth Resume Writing Specialist. They can help you craft a resume that aligns with FIFO job requirements. 

5. Research Employers and Apply Strategically 

Once you have your resume ready, take time to research potential employers. Many companies in mining, oil, gas, and construction frequently recruit FIFO workers. Look into: 

• Company Culture: What is the company’s reputation in terms of workplace culture, safety standards, and support for FIFO employees? 

• Current Job Vacancies: Keep an eye on job boards, recruitment agencies, and company websites for FIFO job openings. 

• Job Location: FIFO jobs often take you to remote areas in Western Australia, Queensland, or Northern Territory. Be prepared to work in diverse, challenging environments. 

  
  

When applying for jobs, focus on quality over quantity. Customize your applications to each position, tailoring your resume and cover letter to match the job requirements. 

6. Prepare for the FIFO Lifestyle 

Life on a FIFO roster comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. Preparing yourself mentally and practically will ensure a smoother transition: 

• Work-Home Balance: FIFO involves long stretches of work, often followed by time off. Understand how to balance your work commitments with your time at home. 

• Safety Awareness: FIFO work involves working in remote, potentially hazardous environments. Familiarize yourself with safety protocols and practices and make safety a top priority. 

• Living Conditions: Accommodations on-site range from camp-style living to village setups. Be prepared for different living conditions, limited personal space, and shared communal areas. 

  
  

Understanding the lifestyle is crucial to making a success of your FIFO career. Having a good support system and communication strategies in place will also help manage the separation from family and friends during your work periods. 

Starting a FIFO career in Australia can be a rewarding path, offering financial stability, skill development, and unique experiences. By researching the industry, assessing your skills, getting certified, tailoring your resume, and preparing for the lifestyle, you’ll set yourself up for success. Remember to stay focused, adaptable, and safety-conscious throughout your journey. 

If you’re serious about landing your ideal job, now is the time to invest in expert resume writing. Contact Adrienna, your Perth Resume Writing Specialist, at 0423 686 904 or email hello@adriennasresumes.com. We support clients across Australia and are here to help you present your best self and take the next step in your FIFO career.