f you are looking for a modern and stable FIFO career in Western Australia, IGO Limited stands out as one of the most forward-thinking employers in the mining and energy transition sector. The company’s operations focus on nickel, copper, cobalt, and lithium — the materials that power electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems.
This guide explores what it’s like to work FIFO with IGO in 2026, covering its three major operations — Nova, Cosmos, and Forrestania — along with insights on pay, rosters, site conditions, and career progression.
2. About IGO Limited
IGO Limited, formerly known as Independence Group NL, is a Perth-based mining and exploration company focused on producing the critical minerals that drive the clean energy economy. Its commitment to sustainable mining practices, automation, and workforce wellbeing has made it one of the most respected mid-tier employers in the Australian resources industry.
The company operates three major mines across Western Australia:
- Nova Operation, located in the Fraser Range, producing nickel, copper, and cobalt.
- Cosmos Project, near Leinster, a high-grade nickel project currently expanding into full-scale production.
- Forrestania Nickel Operation, south of Southern Cross, operating multiple underground deposits with processing on site.
Each site offers FIFO employment from Perth, competitive salaries, and a strong focus on professional development and sustainability.
3. Site Locations and Operations
Nova Operation – Fraser Range
The Nova mine is IGO’s flagship project and one of the most technically advanced underground mines in Australia. It produces nickel, copper, and cobalt concentrates through modern underground mining and processing techniques.
- Located approximately 160 kilometres east of Norseman.
- FIFO from Perth or Kalgoorlie with chartered company flights.
- Features an underground mine, concentrator, and state-of-the-art control systems.
- Known for automation and a strong safety record.
Cosmos Nickel Project – Leinster Region
Cosmos is one of Australia’s newest large-scale nickel projects, incorporating the Odysseus mine and a new processing plant. The project is rapidly expanding and is expected to become a cornerstone of IGO’s nickel production in 2026.
- Located near Leinster, north of Kalgoorlie.
- FIFO from Perth with direct charter flights.
- Modern underground operation with major recruitment needs across trades and operators.
Forrestania Operation – Southern Cross Region
A long-established nickel mining district, Forrestania includes several underground mines and a central processing facility.
- DIDO or FIFO from Perth.
- Continuous investment in upgrades, maintenance, and automation.
- Ideal for tradespeople and process plant technicians.
4. Typical Job Roles
Mining Operations
- Underground Truck and Loader Operators.
- Bogger and Jumbo Operators.
- Service Crew, Nippers, and Shotfirers.
- Geotechnical Engineers, Mining Engineers, and Surveyors.
Processing and Plant Operations
- Process Technicians and Control Room Operators.
- Metallurgists, Lab Technicians, and Water Technicians.
- Tailings Management and Plant Maintenance staff.
Trades and Maintenance
- Heavy Diesel Mechanics and Auto Electricians.
- Mechanical Fitters and Boilermakers.
- Electricians, Instrument Technicians, and HV Technicians.
- Refrigeration Mechanics and Pump Fitters.
Health, Safety, and Support
- HSE Advisors and Trainers.
- Emergency Response Officers.
- Camp Utility, Catering, and Housekeeping Staff.
- Administration, Procurement, and Warehouse Coordinators.
5. Rosters and Site Life
Roster Patterns
- 8 days on and 6 days off for processing and surface roles.
- 14 days on and 7 days off for underground and remote roles.
- 7 days on and 7 days off for maintenance and supervision.
Rosters are designed to balance work intensity and lifestyle, with consistent flight schedules from Perth and other regional airports.
Living Conditions
IGO provides modern FIFO camps with single ensuite rooms, Wi-Fi, gym facilities, entertainment spaces, and 24-hour catering.
Meals are high quality, and recreation areas are designed for social connection and relaxation after shifts.
Work Environment
Safety is the top priority, with strong systems for fatigue management, pre-start briefings, and continuous training. Teams work 12-hour shifts with clear communication between crews and supervisors.
6. Pay and Benefits (2026 Estimates)
| Role Type | Typical Salary (AUD per year) |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level Utility / Trainee | 90,000 – 110,000 |
| Underground Operator | 160,000 – 210,000 |
| Trades (Fitters, Electricians, Diesel Mechanics) | 170,000 – 230,000 |
| Processing Technicians | 150,000 – 190,000 |
| Engineers and Supervisors | 190,000 – 280,000 |
Employee Benefits
- Flights, accommodation, and meals included.
- Company-paid medicals and training.
- Performance bonuses and long service incentives.
- Superannuation above industry average.
- Employee share scheme and private health insurance options.
- Paid parental leave and career development programs.
7. Training and Qualifications
Mandatory Requirements
- White Card (Construction Induction).
- Working at Heights and Confined Space Entry.
- Gas Test Atmospheres.
- Mine Safety Induction and Medical Clearance.
- Drug and Alcohol Screening.
Preferred Qualifications
- Certificate III or IV in Mechanical, Electrical, or Process Operations.
- EEHA certification for electricians.
- High Risk Work Licence (EWP, Dogging, Rigging).
- First Aid, CPR, and Fire Safety qualifications.
- Previous underground or hard rock experience is highly regarded.
Career Pathways and Entry Routes
IGO invests in training through apprenticeships, traineeships, and graduate programs. The company partners with TAFE and local training providers to build a steady workforce for mechanical, electrical, and process roles.
8. Life on Site
Culture and Team Environment
IGO is recognised for having one of the most positive cultures in Australian mining. Workers describe the company as people-focused, approachable, and safety-driven. Collaboration between teams is encouraged, and staff are supported through wellbeing and mentoring programs.
Facilities and Lifestyle
Camps are modern and comfortable, with private rooms, gyms, pools, and recreation areas. The food is of high quality, with healthy and varied menus. The company regularly organises social activities, sporting events, and mental health initiatives to improve work-life balance.
Community and Sustainability
IGO invests heavily in Indigenous partnerships, environmental projects, and renewable energy systems across its mine sites. The Agnew renewable hybrid power system and the company’s lithium joint ventures reflect a genuine commitment to sustainable operations.
9. Advantages and Challenges
Advantages
- High salaries, excellent rosters, and long-term career stability.
- Opportunities to work with world-class automation and safety systems.
- Supportive culture that values wellbeing and inclusion.
- Exposure to the battery metals and renewable energy industries.
- Strong professional development opportunities across multiple sites.
Challenges
- FIFO lifestyle requires adjustment to long shifts and time away from family.
- Underground environments demand fitness and attention to safety.
- Heat, dust, and isolation in remote locations.
- Competition for trade and technical roles is increasing.
10. Career Progression and Future Outlook
Career Pathways
- Operator → Senior Operator → Leading Hand → Supervisor → Superintendent.
- Tradesperson → Maintenance Planner → Reliability Engineer → Maintenance Manager.
- Graduate → Engineer → Senior Engineer → Technical Superintendent.
- HSE / Training → Safety Coordinator → Site Safety Manager.
Industry Outlook
The demand for battery metals is set to increase dramatically over the next decade, driven by electric vehicle and renewable energy expansion. IGO’s diversified operations in nickel, copper, and lithium place it at the centre of Australia’s clean energy future.
Expansion at Cosmos and further investment at Nova will create new roles across engineering, trades, and operations through 2026 and beyond.
11. Final Thoughts
A FIFO job with IGO Limited offers more than a paycheck — it provides stability, purpose, and a pathway into the future of mining. With excellent conditions, competitive salaries, and a genuine focus on sustainability, IGO is one of Western Australia’s best employers for skilled workers in 2026.
If you are a tradesperson, technician, or engineer looking for a company that combines modern technology with real human values, IGO is the kind of place where you can build a lasting and meaningful FIFO career.
