Vacation Student - Commercial

Build a rewarding career in Australia’s mining industry.

Are you looking to gain real-world experience while completing your surveying degree? Whitehaven Coal is offering an exciting opportunity for a Vacation Student – Safety to join our team at Maules Creek near Gunnedah during the 2026/27 university summer break.

This structured 12-week paid vacation program provides invaluable exposure to site-based mining operations, allowing you to apply your studies in a practical environment while working alongside experienced industry professionals.

You'll gain hands-on experience, develop your technical capabilities, and build valuable industry connections, all while discovering what a future career with Whitehaven could look like.

Program Highlights

• 12-week site-based program (November 2026 – February 2027)
• Hands-on experience in an operational open cut coal mine
• Camp accommodation provided for the duration of the program
• Mentoring and support from experienced safety and technical professionals
• Exposure to contemporary safety systems, risk management processes and industry best practice
• Opportunity to build your professional network and industry knowledge

What You’ll Do

As a Vacation Student in Safety, you'll work closely with our site Health and Safety team and gain exposure to a broad range of activities that support a safe and productive mining operation.

You will:

• Assist with safety inspections, audits and workplace observations
• Support the implementation of health, safety and risk management initiatives across site
• Participate in incident investigations and learn how corrective actions are developed and monitored
• Assist with hazard identification, risk assessments and safety reporting processes
• Gain exposure to legislative compliance requirements and safety management systems
• Collaborate with operational teams, supervisors and technical professionals to promote safe work practices
• Develop an understanding of mining operations, critical risk controls and site safety culture
• Build practical skills in communication, stakeholder engagement and problem solving
• Contribute to projects that support continuous improvement in health and safety performance

What You'll Bring

We're looking for motivated students who are keen to learn and build a career in the resources sector.

You'll have:

• Current enrolment in a Bachelor of Occupational Health and Safety or a related discipline
• A genuine interest in workplace health and safety within the mining and resources industry
• A strong commitment to safety, integrity and continuous improvement
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• The ability to work collaboratively within a team environment
• A proactive attitude and willingness to learn
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving capabilities

Why Whitehaven?

At Whitehaven, we're committed to developing the next generation of mining professionals.  Our Vacation Program is designed to provide meaningful, practical experience that complements your university studies while helping you explore future career opportunities.

Through the program, you'll benefit from:

• Real exposure to mining operations and safety projects
• Coaching and mentorship from experienced professionals
• Structured development, regular feedback and ongoing support
• Opportunities to build industry knowledge and professional networks
• Meaningful project work that adds value to the operation
• Insight into graduate pathways and future career opportunities with Whitehaven

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you're eager to gain hands-on experience, challenge yourself in a dynamic operational environment and kick-start your career in mining, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now and build your future with Whitehaven.