MORE women are being encouraged to consider a career in the traditionally male-dominated mining industry as the sector recognises the benefits of diversity in the workforce.

Employment Office Managing Director, Tudor Marsden-Huggins said there has been a trend towards recognising the value of the female gender in mining roles.

“In 2008, women accounted for just 10.4 percent of the mining industry and were recruited mainly for corporate and office roles,” the recruitment specialist said.

“Today women work on trucks, draglines, scrappers, excavators, power shovels and all areas of mining,” Mr Marsden-Huggins said.

“While a disparity in gender continues within the industry, more and more women are considering a career in mining and the sector is recognising the value the female gender brings to the traditionally male-dominated profession.

“Women’s participation in the mining sector is certainly moving progressively onto the industry’s agenda.”

Employment Office is currently recruiting a number of positions in the mining sector that would suit candidates from both genders – not just the traditional stocky, muscle-clad men often associated with mining. Mandalay Resources Mine Manager, Neil Schunke said women more than ever have the opportunity to build a career in mining.

“Mandalay Resources recognise the importance of driving cultural change and opening up opportunities for women to participate in mining,” Mr Schunke said.

“Women already play a significant role in our workforce and we’d welcome female applicants to any of our opportunities,” he said.

“Careers available with our company stretch much further than exploration roles, with opportunities available in all sectors, from mechanical engineering to environmental science and construction.

“For example, we’re currently recruiting for a Senior Production Engineer and anyone with the right skills and qualifications will be considered regardless of their gender – we would encourage women to take advantage of the opportunity for a career in the industry.”

Australia is rich in mineral and petroleum products and the Australian mining industry is recognised globally, therefore a career in mining offers countless benefits.

There are over 150 different career paths in mining today.