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Production and energy

Leadership in mining and resources

A practical route into responsibility for people, quality and results in mining and resources.

Where to enter

People enter through operations, geology, engineering, maintenance, environmental work, procurement or finance. A site leader must coordinate safety-critical work, contractors and production under the mine’s management system.

A project that shows leadership

Participate in a supervised review of equipment downtime or contractor handover. Record hazards, who may approve the change, and what would stop the work.

What to measure

Track safety controls, equipment availability, recovery, waste and corrective actions together. Production alone is a poor leadership measure.

Choose your learning

NSW Resources explains that statutory functions can require certificates and specified qualifications. Verify the relevant state and type of mine before planning a credential.

Check the boundary

A management title or general leadership course does not satisfy statutory mining functions or site-specific authority.

Source to check

Relevant Australian regulator or sector guidance. Confirm location, role, eligibility and current rules with the provider or employer.

Build evidence in 90 days

  1. Read three current vacancies for the role you want. Separate required qualifications from preferred experience.
  2. Ask a supervisor for one small project that fits your authority and time.
  3. Agree a baseline and a safety or quality measure before making a change.
  4. Record your contribution, what the team achieved and what you would change next.

Explore related roles in the industry directory and compare the Jobs and Skills Australia occupation profiles.

Reviewed 23 September 2026. General career guidance only; check current licensing, registration, training and employment conditions for the exact role and jurisdiction. Request a correction.