The South Australian energy and resources sector is witnessing significant growth as new data reveals a record number of job advertisements in the last quarter of 2023.
The South Australian Mining and Energy Hiring Intentions Report, which was released Monday, 22 January, shows that 918 job advertisements were placed for roles in SA’s resources and energy sector between October and December.
This is the highest level of jobs advertised in this period since 2013 when the Resources and Energy Skills Alliance (RESA) began producing the report. This record demand for skills follows an increase in mining activity and investments in energy projects in the state.
Jobs were advertised across a wide range of professions, with the top three categories being trades and operators (54 per cent), professionals (29 per cent), and supervisors/managers (9 per cent).
The report also found a high demand for diesel mechanics, mechanical fitters, and health, safety, and environment advisors, as well as mining engineers and project managers.
Around 40 per cent of advertised jobs are located in regional areas in the state.
“These record results are more evidence that the energy and mining sectors are key drivers of our state’s economy, boosting jobs and building prosperity for all South Australians,” said South Australian Premier Tom Koutsantonis.
“It is particularly pleasing that well over a third of these jobs are located in our state’s regions. These sectors are vital to the prosperity of our regional communities and to the state’s economic transformation,” Koutsantonis added.
“Our state is delivering the raw materials and value-added products needed to drive the energy transition globally, including copper, steel and hydrogen. This jobs boom is creating opportunities for people with varieties of skills – whether you’re operating heavy equipment or honing a complex spreadsheet, there’s a job for you in South Australia’s resources sector.”
Jodie Badcock, CEO of RESA, said mining and energy vacancy activity has seen consistent growth over the past two years with demand in each quarter consistently equalling or exceeding the equivalent period in the previous financial year.
“With 235 companies advertising in the sector in Q2 FY23-24, in roles that support mineral resources and infrastructure projects, industry demand is diverse both by type of employment and geographical location,” Badcock said.
“This highlights the importance of a collaborative approach to the development of workforce solutions aligned to industry priorities providing pathways to rewarding employment opportunities for South Australians.”
