Graduate Engineer Mining

Kestrel Coal Midco; Emerald; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive incentives

Housing options

Salary packaging

Health program

Leadership development program

Job summary

Kestrel Coal Midco is looking for enthusiastic Graduate Mining Engineers to join their team in Emerald, Queensland. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in underground coal mining through Kestrel's NEXTGEN Graduate Program. Graduates will work closely with operational teams, contributing to mine planning and project work while supported by experienced mentors.

The ideal candidates should possess a qualification in Mining Engineering and a strong desire to build a long-term career in the industry. Kestrel values a culture of respect and inclusion, providing a supportive environment for all.

Qualifications

• Tertiary qualification or final year in Mining Engineering.
• Genuine interest in underground coal mining.
• Willingness to work underground and gain operational experience.

Responsibilities

• Support underground mining operations through hands-on experience.
• Work alongside production and development crews.
• Assist with mine planning and operational reporting.

Skills

Problem-solving

Analytical skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Education

Tertiary qualification in Mining Engineering

Job description

We are Kestrel - one of the world’s largest producing underground coking coal mines, delivering around 7 million tonnes of high-quality metallurgical coal annually to global steelmakers.

But what truly sets us apart is our culture. It’s not uncommon to walk down the breezeway and strike up a conversation with our CEO or Executive Leaders. We believe that great ideas come from anyone, and we empower our team members to bring their insights forward - knowing they’ll be heard, valued and that the path from idea to implementation is refreshingly short.

We strive to create an environment where everyone feels respected and supported. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting your career, at Kestrel, you’ll find opportunities to grow, contribute, and have meaningful impact.

With a mine life to 2033 and reserves to 2046, we’re planning for a future that’s safe, sustainable, and full of opportunity - for our industry and our people. We’re proud of where we’ve come from, and even more excited about what’s ahead.

About the role

We have two exciting opportunities for Graduate Mining Engineers to join the Kestrel team. These roles provide the opportunity to build a rewarding career in underground coal mining while developing both operational and technical mining engineering capability.

As part of Kestrel's NEXTGEN Graduate Program, these roles are designed to develop future mining leaders through a combination of operational experience, technical development and meaningful project work.

Unlike many graduate programs, your first 12 months will focus on gaining a deep understanding of underground mining operations. You will spend significant time working alongside production and development crews underground, gaining firsthand experience of mining processes, equipment, production systems and the challenges faced by frontline teams. This operational foundation will provide invaluable context for your future engineering career and support your progression into technical and operational leadership roles.

Following this initial development period, you will transition into a more technical engineering role, supporting mine planning, ventilation, scheduling, project work, operational improvement initiatives and technical services activities. Throughout the program, you will be supported by experienced mentors and leaders who are committed to helping you grow and succeed.

Why you’ll love working here

• A permanent role on a site with a strong future – long mine life and room to grow.
• Monday to Friday or a 9-day fortnight, the choice is yours.
• Great pay and perks - Including competitive incentives, housing options, and salary packaging.
• Health-first mindset - With our award-winning Health Program and subsidised private health insurance.
• Supported to grow - We’ll back your development through tailored programs like our award-winning ‘Unleashed’ Leadership Program and study assistance.
• A culture that walks the talk - Respect, agility, commitment and collaborating as one, aren’t just values - they’re how we operate, every day.

In this role, you will support Kestrel by

• Developing a strong understanding of underground mining operations through hands‑on operational experience.
• Working alongside production and development crews to gain practical exposure to mining equipment, systems and processes.
• Supporting safe and efficient production outcomes through active participation in operational activities and improvement initiatives.
• Assisting with mine planning, scheduling and operational reporting activities.
• Supporting ventilation, production, development and infrastructure projects across the operation.
• Contributing to technical investigations, data analysis and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Assisting with the development of mine plans, reports, presentations and technical documentation.
• Participating in risk assessments, audits and compliance activities.
• Developing an understanding of mining legislation, operational standards and industry best practice.
• Building strong working relationships with operational, technical and leadership teams across site.
• Contributing to projects that improve safety, productivity, efficiency and operational performance.

About you

You’re an enthusiastic and motivated graduate who is excited by the opportunity to learn how a world‑class underground mining operation works. You understand that becoming a great mining engineer starts with understanding the people, equipment and processes that drive the business, and you’re eager to gain hands‑on operational experience before developing deeper technical expertise.

You will also have:

• A tertiary qualification in Mining Engineering or be in your final year of study.
• A genuine interest in underground coal mining and a desire to build a long‑term career within the industry.
• A willingness to work underground and gain practical operational experience as part of your development.
• Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret information and develop practical solutions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships across a diverse workforce.
• A proactive attitude, strong work ethic and commitment to continuous learning.
• The ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Sound computer literacy and the ability to learn new systems and technologies.
• Willingness to complete required site training, including underground inductions, medical assessments and statutory requirements.

A Place Where You Can Be You

At Kestrel, we’re building a workplace where everyone can thrive. Inclusion is active, and equity is intentional - not a KPI.

We celebrate people from all cultures, communities, and identities, and we’re committed to creating a safe, respectful, and supportive environment where you can be yourself.

We welcome applications from everyone - including First Nations people, women and candidates from culturally diverse backgrounds.

If you need adjustments or support through the application process, just let us know - we’re here to help.

How to apply

Ready to take the next step? Hit the Apply Now link to send us your resume.

Got questions? Reach out to: [e-mail]

Applications close

12 July 2026.

Please note: We may progress suitable candidates before the closing date – so don’t wait too long!

What to Expect from the Recruitment Process

At Kestrel, we’re focused on building the right team – people who bring energy, integrity, and the skills to make a difference. Our recruitment process is designed to help both you and us make informed, confident decisions.

From your first enquiry to final offer, you’ll be supported by a dedicated in-house recruiter – someone who’s part of the Kestrel team and who understands the role and the workplace.

The process typically involves initial conversations, two‑way interviews and a site visit so you can get a real feel for working at Kestrel. We also conduct pre‑employment checks including criminal history screening, medical assessments, work rights and qualification verifications, and reference checks.

We’ll keep the process clear, respectful and timely – and we’re here to support you at every step.