Top Industries Offering FIFO Roles and How to Break In

Australia, with its vast landscapes and remote regions, has a unique work culture where FIFO (Fly-in, Fly-out) roles are common. These jobs, which typically involve workers flying into a remote location to work for a set period before returning home, have become a significant aspect of the Australian labour market. Whether you're looking to work in the mining industry or hoping to start a career in healthcare in the outback, FIFO opportunities span a wide range of sectors. But how do you break into this unique type of employment, and what are the industries offering these roles?

What Are FIFO Jobs?

FIFO (Fly-in, Fly-out) roles are exactly what they sound like—positions that require employees to fly into a remote location, typically for an extended period (such as two or three weeks), and then fly home for time off. These jobs are often seen in industries that operate in areas far from urban centres, where it's not practical for workers to live nearby. FIFO (Fly-in, Fly-out) positions are particularly common in Australia’s mining, construction, energy, and even healthcare sectors.

While the structure of FIFO roles varies—some workers may be on-site for a few days, while others may spend up to a month at a time away—what is consistent is the allure of working in remote areas while enjoying substantial time off and competitive pay. But what industries are the main players when it comes to FIFO employment?

Mining and Resources Industry

Perhaps the most iconic sector for FIFO jobs, Australia’s mining industry is a major provider of these roles. Australia is a global leader in mining, producing vast amounts of minerals, coal, natural gas, and gold, often in remote locations across the country.

For many people looking to enter the FIFO world, mining is the go-to industry. The great advantage of FIFO roles in mining is the relative accessibility of positions. While many require some form of technical training or experience, entry-level roles are available, and some companies even offer on-the-job training. Workers may find themselves operating heavy machinery, working as truck drivers, or involved in drilling and exploration. There's also a growing demand for skilled electricians, mechanical engineers, and geologists in the field, which can make for highly lucrative careers for those with the necessary qualifications.

Mining companies often run large operations in Western Australia, Queensland, and the Northern Territory, where fly-in operations are common. These jobs offer excellent pay, benefits, and opportunities for advancement, making mining one of the top industries for FIFO workers in Australia.

Oil and Gas Industry

Similar to mining, Australia’s oil and gas industry is another key area where FIFO roles are abundant. As one of the world’s largest producers of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and oil, Australia's offshore and remote onshore oil and gas fields require workers who can commute from major cities like Perth or Brisbane to distant sites. These jobs often take place on offshore rigs, remote drilling sites, or in natural gas fields.

Working in oil and gas as a FIFO employee can involve technical roles such as rig operators, process engineers, and safety managers. There are also a number of administrative, logistical, and supervisory positions available. Given the high-risk nature of the work, the pay and benefits associated with oil and gas FIFO roles are often generous, and many workers find the experience of working in the industry to be highly rewarding.

In addition to traditional technical roles, the industry also offers opportunities for people with backgrounds in project management, health and safety, and environmental sustainability. However, breaking into this sector often requires specific certifications or qualifications in areas like engineering, trades, or safety management.

Construction and Infrastructure Development

Construction is another industry offering abundant FIFO positions. While large urban construction projects are common in Australia’s major cities, infrastructure projects in regional and remote areas often rely heavily on FIFO workers. This includes projects such as highways, rail networks, dams, and the construction of housing developments in remote communities.

Roles in construction can vary widely. Some workers may find themselves performing skilled trades such as carpentry, electrical work, or plumbing. Others may work in project management, surveying, or safety management. With the Australian government investing heavily in infrastructure projects, the demand for skilled tradespeople and managers in remote locations continues to rise.

If you’re looking to break into construction as a FIFO worker, gaining the appropriate trade qualifications or a degree in construction management is often the first step. Apprenticeships and trade certificates are essential for many of the hands-on roles, while project managers and surveyors typically need to have tertiary qualifications in civil engineering or construction management.

Agriculture and Horticulture

While not always the first sector people associate with FIFO work, agriculture and horticulture in Australia have become significant sources of FIFO roles. Remote farming operations, including large-scale cattle stations and agricultural enterprises, need workers to manage crops, livestock, and machinery.

The FIFO model in agriculture is often a bit different than in other industries, with seasonal work being more common. Positions might include farmhands, machinery operators, or even roles related to land management and pest control. Given Australia’s vast agricultural landscape, remote farming communities often rely on FIFO workers to manage operations during peak seasons.

One of the challenges of breaking into this sector is that it often requires a specific set of skills, including experience with heavy machinery or farming equipment. In some cases, farmers and agricultural businesses may also require employees to have a background in animal husbandry or crop management.

Healthcare

It may come as a surprise to some, but FIFO jobs also exist in healthcare. In rural and remote areas, where there is a shortage of medical professionals, FIFO workers are often required to fill essential roles. Doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals such as physiotherapists and radiographers are regularly flown into regional hospitals and healthcare centres.

Healthcare workers on a FIFO roster typically work in small regional hospitals or clinics located in isolated areas like the outback or island communities. In these positions, healthcare professionals might be the only available medical personnel for miles around, which requires both flexibility and the ability to work independently. For medical professionals, FIFO positions can offer a unique career path, with generous pay, great work-life balance, and the chance to make a real difference in the lives of people in remote communities.

To break into FIFO healthcare roles, professionals typically need to have formal qualifications in medicine, nursing, or allied health. Specific remote or rural medical training can also be an advantage, as working in isolation comes with a unique set of challenges that require specific skills.

Breaking Into FIFO Roles: Key Considerations

While FIFO (Fly-in, Fly-out) jobs offer excellent pay and a unique lifestyle, breaking into these roles can be a competitive process. Here are some key factors to keep in mind when trying to land your first FIFO role.

1. Certifications and Qualifications

   
   

   Most FIFO positions require some form of certification or relevant qualifications, particularly for technical and skilled roles. For example, those wanting to work in the mining industry might need certifications in first aid, working at heights, or operating heavy machinery. For healthcare professionals, rural and remote area qualifications might be necessary.

   
   

2. Networking and Industry Knowledge

   
   

   Networking within your chosen industry is essential. Many FIFO workers land their roles through connections or industry-specific job boards. Attending industry events, joining relevant online groups, or getting involved in professional associations can help you stay informed about available opportunities.

   
   

3. Flexibility and Adaptability

   
   

   FIFO work often requires a high level of flexibility. Workers need to be prepared to travel to remote areas, sometimes with little notice. It’s also important to be able to adjust to working in isolated conditions and living in communal accommodation with other workers.

   
   

4. Resilience and Mental Health

   
   

   Working in remote areas for long periods can take a mental toll. It’s essential to consider your ability to cope with isolation, long shifts, and the physical demands of the job. Many FIFO workers find that regular communication with family and friends, as well as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, helps them thrive in these environments.

   
   

5. Research Employers and Roles

   
   

   The FIFO job market can vary greatly by sector and location, so it’s important to research employers thoroughly. Websites dedicated to FIFO employment, such as SEEK or Indeed, are great starting points for understanding the types of positions available, as well as the qualifications and skills required.

   
   

Conclusion

FIFO (Fly-in, Fly-out) roles in Australia offer an exciting opportunity to work in some of the most remote and unique locations across the country. From the bustling mining sites in Western Australia to the serene agricultural farms in Queensland, the FIFO lifestyle promises both challenge and reward. By understanding the sectors offering these opportunities, obtaining the necessary qualifications, and being prepared for the lifestyle changes that come with remote work, you can set yourself up for a successful and fulfilling career in FIFO employment.

If you need assistance creating an impactful FIFO resume and cover letter, contact Adrienna, your Perth Resume Writing Specialist, at 0423 686 904 or email hello@adriennasresumes.com