Chevron Australia operates two of the most significant energy projects in the nation: the Gorgon Gas Project on Barrow Island and the Wheatstone LNG Project near Onslow, Western Australia. These are engineering marvels, producing and exporting liquefied natural gas (LNG) to global markets while supplying gas to Australia’s domestic network.
For FIFO professionals, Chevron offers some of the most advanced, high-paying, and safety-focused workplaces in the country. This 2026 guide explores what life, pay, and career prospects look like at these projects.
1. Project Overview
Gorgon Project (Barrow Island)
One of the world’s largest natural gas developments, Gorgon processes gas from offshore fields, converting it into LNG for export. It includes three LNG trains, domestic gas plants, and a massive carbon capture and storage (CCS) system designed to reduce emissions.
Barrow Island is a class-A nature reserve, meaning every activity is performed under strict environmental protocols.
Wheatstone Project (Onslow, Ashburton North)
Located 12 kilometres west of Onslow, Wheatstone is Chevron’s other LNG operation. It receives gas from offshore fields and processes it through two LNG trains. The project supports a large onshore workforce and long-term maintenance contracts, creating ongoing FIFO employment opportunities across many trades.
2. FIFO Job Categories and Roles
Chevron employs hundreds of FIFO workers across both projects, covering a wide range of technical and support roles.
Operations and Production
- LNG process operators and production technicians
- Control room operators managing LNG train systems
- Field operators handling valves, pipelines, and pressure systems
Maintenance and Trades
- Mechanical fitters and rotating equipment specialists
- Electrical and instrumentation technicians (EEHA certified)
- Diesel mechanics, welders, and scaffolders for shutdown work
Engineering and Technical
- Process, chemical, mechanical, and reliability engineers
- Subsea, marine, and pipeline engineers
- Maintenance planners and asset integrity coordinators
Health, Safety, and Environment
- Safety advisors and HSE coordinators
- Emergency response and medical officers
- Environmental compliance and monitoring specialists
Support and Camp Services
- Camp managers, logistics coordinators, and catering staff
- Procurement and warehouse roles
- Administration and scheduling positions
3. Locations and Access
Barrow Island (Gorgon Project)
- Remote island off the Pilbara coast
- FIFO flights primarily from Perth Airport
- Strict quarantine and biosecurity requirements to protect the island’s ecosystem
Onslow (Wheatstone Project)
- FIFO and DIDO (Drive-In Drive-Out) options available
- Flights from Perth or regional towns to Onslow Airport
- Onsite camps with premium facilities for long-term staff
4. Rosters and Lifestyle
Typical rosters for Chevron’s LNG sites are designed to balance productivity with recovery time.
Common Roster Types:
- 2 weeks on / 2 weeks off (standard operations)
- 2 weeks on / 1 week off (construction or shutdowns)
- 8 days on / 6 days off (supervisory or technical staff)
Camp Lifestyle:
Workers are housed in modern, air-conditioned accommodation with ensuite rooms. Camps offer large gyms, swimming pools, movie theatres, outdoor BBQ areas, and Wi-Fi access. Chevron invests heavily in wellbeing initiatives, ensuring staff enjoy a high standard of comfort even in remote environments.
5. Salaries and Benefits (2026 Estimates)
Chevron offers some of the best pay rates in the Australian energy sector, reflecting the complexity and scale of its projects.
| Role | Estimated Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Utility / Camp Support | $90,000 – $110,000 |
| Process Technician | $150,000 – $190,000 |
| Electrical / Instrumentation Technician | $170,000 – $220,000 |
| Mechanical Fitter / Diesel Mechanic | $160,000 – $200,000 |
| HSE Advisor | $150,000 – $200,000 |
| Engineer / Supervisor | $180,000 – $250,000+ |
Additional Benefits:
- Paid travel, meals, and accommodation
- Comprehensive health insurance and wellness programs
- Superannuation above industry average
- Structured career pathways and training
- Family assistance programs and employee counselling
6. Entry Requirements and Training
Working on Chevron’s sites requires meeting high technical and safety standards.
Mandatory Requirements:
- White Card (construction induction)
- Standard 11 mining induction
- Working at Heights and Confined Space Entry
- Gas Test Atmospheres ticket
- Electrical / mechanical trade qualifications
- Fitness to Work medical clearance and drug testing
Preferred Qualifications:
- High Risk Work Licence (EWP, dogging, rigging)
- Hazardous Area EEHA certification (for electrical roles)
- Supervisor or frontline management courses
Chevron Career Programs:
- Apprenticeships and graduate programs in process, maintenance, and engineering disciplines
- Local training partnerships in WA for technical upskilling
7. Camp Life and Culture
Chevron’s workforce culture emphasises safety, inclusion, and teamwork.
At both Gorgon and Wheatstone, staff can access on-site recreation facilities, social clubs, and wellbeing programs. Chevron’s “MindSafe” and “Stronger Together” initiatives focus on mental health awareness and peer support.
Highlights:
- Fresh meals cooked daily with healthy menu options
- Recreation gyms and sports courts
- 24/7 medical and emergency services
- Weekly wellness activities and entertainment nights
8. Safety and Environmental Responsibility
Safety is the cornerstone of Chevron’s FIFO operations.
Every employee participates in pre-start meetings, hazard reporting, and behaviour-based safety programs.
Key Safety Initiatives:
- Zero-harm goal across all LNG and maintenance operations
- Strict fatigue management and job safety analysis procedures
- Emergency response teams with regular drills
Environmental Focus:
Chevron invests in carbon reduction and rehabilitation efforts.
The Gorgon Carbon Capture and Storage system injects millions of tonnes of CO₂ underground annually, making it one of the world’s largest of its kind.
9. Career Progression
Chevron’s global scale provides enormous potential for growth.
Workers often begin in trades or operations roles and progress into leadership or technical specialist positions.
Career Path Examples:
- Utility → Technician → Supervisor
- Tradesperson → Maintenance Planner → Superintendent
- Graduate Engineer → Project Engineer → Senior Engineer
With offices in Perth and international rotations possible, Chevron offers stability and long-term career opportunities few companies can match.
10. How to Apply
Chevron posts all FIFO openings on its official careers portal.
Applications typically require a resume, trade certifications, and proof of training.
Steps to Apply:
- Visit careers.chevron.com
- Search by Location: Western Australia
- Filter for Project: Gorgon or Wheatstone
- Upload certificates and complete the online safety questionnaire
- Prepare for a pre-employment medical and background check
Recruitment cycles run year-round for trades, operators, and shutdown contractors. Partner labour-hire firms like Monadelphous, UGL, and Downer also advertise Chevron project roles.
Final Thoughts
Working FIFO with Chevron at Gorgon or Wheatstone means joining one of the most advanced LNG operations in the world. The combination of world-class safety systems, competitive pay, and modern village life makes Chevron a top-tier employer for skilled Australians seeking stability and long-term growth.
For those ready to work in challenging but rewarding environments, Chevron’s Pilbara LNG projects represent the future of energy — and a solid pathway to a high-paying FIFO career.
