Launch your geoscience career with the Geological Survey of Western Australia.

Fixed term opportunity for 12 months until December 2027.

The Geological Survey of Western Australia (GSWA) is seeking applications for its Industry Ready Graduate Program 2027 (direct entry), a unique opportunity for emerging geoscientists to gain valuable industry experience while developing the technical skills and data capability required for a successful career in the resources sector.

Following completion of your Honours or Master's degree in 2026, you'll join GSWA as a full-time employee for a structured 12-month development program, working alongside experienced geoscientists on meaningful projects that support the responsible development of Western Australia's mineral and energy resources.

GSWA is part of the Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration (DMPE). As a globally respected geological survey, GSWA provides trusted geoscientific data, information and services that support informed decision-making and the sustainable use of Western Australia's natural resources.

The Industry Ready Graduate Program

The Industry Ready Graduate Program provides practical, applied training designed to complement your university studies and accelerate your transition into the workforce. Participants gain experience across a broad range of geoscience disciplines, develop expertise in accessing and interpreting geoscience data, and build technical skills that are transferable across the resources industry.

Commencing on a salary of $90,256 per annum, plus 12 % superannuation, this program offers a competitive advantage for graduates seeking careers in exploration, mining, energy, environmental geoscience, and related fields.

To find out more about this program, please visit the Geological Survey of Western Australia Graduate Program.

Eligibility

Applications are open to students who have completed an Honours or Master's degree at a Western Australian university in 2026 and are ready to commence full-time employment in 2027.

To work for DMPE, you must consent to a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check and obtain a clearance before you start. If deemed suitable, DMPE will coordinate and pay for your NCCHC as part of your pre-employment checks.

As a successful candidate, you are expected to complete the one-year program starting Monday, 4 January 2027 and finishing Dec 2027.

More information about eligibility requirements can be found on the Job Description Form.

While this selection process will initially be used to fill the above vacancy, it may also be used to fill other similar vacancies (permanent, fixed-term, full-time or part-time) within the department for the next 24 months, from the date that the recruitment breach period has been finalised.

Further information

Please contact Klaus Gessner on (08) 9222 3631 or Klaus.GESSNER@dmpe.wa.gov.au; or visit our website. You can also keep up to date on DMPE achievements and activities by following us on LinkedIn.

How to apply

We ask for you to provide a detailed resume outlining your education, relevant skills and achievements and a covering letter of no more than two (2) pages, addressing the following points:

1. Why are you applying for this GSWA Graduate Program
2. How do your career aspirations relate to the resources sector.
3. Share your research experience and what excites you about science.
4. Your knowledge and experience developed through your studies or work (this may include work experience or volunteer work) including examples how you communicate effectively with stakeholders.

Applicants are also required to submit a copy of their academic transcript to date as part of their application.

Shortlisted applicants will have their skills and experience in relation to the remaining role specific requirements and leadership behaviours assessed in further stages of the recruitment process. The complete list of role specific requirements and expected leadership behaviours can be found in the attached Job Description Form.

In the attached Applicant Information Pack, we offer further information on how to apply and the range of incentives offered to employees who work with DMPE. If you have any questions about employment conditions, the application process or require any technical support when submitting your application online, please contact Madeline Rogers, Recruitment Officer on (08) 9222 3657 or email recruitment@dmpe.wa.gov.au.

To submit your application, click on the “Apply for Job” button at the bottom of this page. You will be asked to complete several questions, before attaching your resume and covering letter (where appropriate).

Supporting Diversity and Inclusion

The department is committed to building and maintaining an inclusive and supportive workplace.  That’s why championing diversity and inclusion is so important to us; when we embrace different perspectives and give everyone the chance to be the best they can be, we can think in new, creative ways that grow and enhance our department.  Our department is an equal opportunity employer, supported by the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA), preference may be given to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, people of diverse sexualities and youth.

We are proud to be recognised as an Inclusive Employer for 2023-2024 by Diversity Council Australia. Learn more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion here.                         

We use the National Relay Service (NRS) to ensure we are accessible to people who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment. NRS can help you connect with us on:

• TTY/voice calls – 133 677
• Speak & Listen – 1300 555 727
• SMS relay – 0423 677 767

If you have any access needs that may require adjustment to allow you to fully participate in the application and interview process, including alternate methods of communication, or to request a document in an alternative format please contact us at recruitment@dmpe.wa.gov.au

CLOSING DATE: 4.00PM on Monday, 9 November 2026 (WST)

Please ensure you allow yourself sufficient time to lodge your application online as late applications will not be accepted. It is your responsibility to ensure your application is submitted on time.

We look forward to receiving your application and considering you for this exciting opportunity to join our team.