Rio Tinto is one of the largest and most established mining companies in the world and the single biggest FIFO employer in Western Australia. With a network of mines, ports, and railways across the Pilbara, Rio Tinto is at the core of Australia’s iron ore industry and a global leader in mining technology, automation, and sustainability.
This 2026 guide provides a full overview of what to expect when working FIFO for Rio Tinto — from the types of jobs available and pay rates to the rosters, training, and lifestyle on site.
1. Overview of Rio Tinto in Western Australia
Rio Tinto operates an integrated network of 17 iron ore mines, 1,900 kilometres of railway, and four independent port terminals in the Pilbara region. These operations supply steel producers worldwide and employ tens of thousands of workers, including thousands of FIFO personnel from across Australia.
Major Operations Include:
- Brockman 4, Gudai-Darri, Tom Price, and Paraburdoo: Large-scale open-pit mines using advanced automation.
- Cape Lambert, Dampier, and Port Hedland Ports: Export facilities handling hundreds of millions of tonnes per year.
- Perth Operations Centre: Remote control and data hub managing rail, mine, and port systems.
Rio Tinto’s focus on safety, diversity, and technology has made it one of the most desirable mining employers for trades, operators, and engineers seeking long-term FIFO careers.
2. FIFO Locations and Access
Most workers fly from Perth, Busselton, or Geraldton to dedicated Rio Tinto airstrips at major Pilbara sites.
Key Sites Include:
- Tom Price: One of Rio Tinto’s oldest and largest iron ore towns with modern mining and processing.
- Paraburdoo: A traditional FIFO and residential hub offering consistent work across trades.
- Gudai-Darri: The company’s newest and most advanced mine, fully automated with electric haulage and digital systems.
- Brockman and Marandoo: High-production open-pit mines with strong trades demand.
- Cape Lambert and Dampier: Coastal port hubs for export and logistics.
3. Types of FIFO Jobs at Rio Tinto
Mining Operations
- Haul Truck, Dozer, and Loader Operators.
- Excavator and Grader Operators.
- Dispatch and Autonomous Fleet Technicians.
- Blast Crew and Drilling Technicians.
- Mining Engineers, Geologists, and Surveyors.
Processing and Maintenance
- Process Plant Operators and Control Room Technicians.
- Mechanical Fitters and Fixed Plant Maintainers.
- Electricians, Instrument Technicians, and Auto Electricians.
- Boilermakers, Welders, and Lubrication Technicians.
- Condition Monitoring and Reliability Engineers.
Rail and Port Operations
- Locomotive Drivers and Maintenance Technicians.
- Port Operators, Ship Loaders, and Conveyor Technicians.
- Marine Engineers, Crane Operators, and Riggers.
- Logistics Coordinators and Scheduling Officers.
Support and Administration
- HSE Advisors, Emergency Response Officers, and Trainers.
- Camp Utilities, Catering, and Cleaning Staff.
- Admin, IT, and Remote Systems Support.
4. Rosters and Lifestyle
Standard Rosters:
- Operations and Maintenance: 2 weeks on and 1 week off.
- Processing and Port Roles: 8 days on and 6 off.
- Rail Operations: 2 weeks on and 1 week off or 4 days on and 3 off for regional residents.
- Corporate Roles: 5 days on and 2 off from Perth.
Lifestyle in Camps:
- Private air-conditioned ensuite rooms.
- Restaurant-style dining with fresh meals and coffee.
- Gym, pool, tavern, and sports facilities.
- Medical and mental health services on site.
- Regular social activities and recreation programs.
5. Pay and Benefits (2026)
Rio Tinto is known for offering strong pay and excellent stability.
Typical Annual Salaries:
- Camp Utility: $90,000 to $110,000
- Process Operator: $140,000 to $170,000
- Haul Truck Operator: $150,000 to $190,000
- Mechanical or Electrical Tradesperson: $160,000 to $210,000
- Control Room Technician: $180,000 to $230,000
- Supervisor or Planner: $190,000 to $250,000
- Engineer or Superintendent: $200,000 to $300,000+
Additional Benefits:
- Flights, accommodation, and meals included.
- Annual production and safety bonuses.
- Superannuation above the industry standard.
- Health, dental, and life insurance.
- Education support and share ownership schemes.
6. Training and Induction Requirements
Mandatory Requirements:
- White Card.
- Working at Heights.
- Confined Space Entry.
- Gas Test Atmospheres.
- First Aid and CPR.
- High Risk Work Licence (EWP, Forklift, Dogging, Rigging).
- Trade certification or relevant qualification.
- Pre-employment medical, drug and alcohol test, and police clearance.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with automated systems such as CAT MineStar or Komatsu AHS.
- Fixed plant isolation and lockout experience.
- EEHA certification for electrical roles.
- Understanding of maintenance planning and safety systems.
Training Pathways:
Rio Tinto operates its own Learning and Development Centre near Perth and runs extensive apprenticeship, traineeship, and graduate programs across mechanical, electrical, and mining engineering fields.
7. Life in Rio Tinto Villages
Rio Tinto’s FIFO villages are large, modern, and well maintained.
Features Include:
- Ensuite rooms with daily servicing.
- Buffet dining and healthy meal options.
- Gym and fitness centre with 24-hour access.
- Swimming pool, tavern, and outdoor recreation.
- Reliable Wi-Fi and dedicated quiet zones.
The company places strong emphasis on mental health and wellbeing, with onsite counsellors, telehealth services, and fatigue management programs.
8. Advantages and Challenges
Advantages:
- Long-term job security in stable, high-volume operations.
- Industry-leading pay and benefits.
- Excellent training and upskilling opportunities.
- Exposure to automation and digital mining systems.
- World-class safety and technology culture.
Challenges:
- Large-scale operations can feel corporate and process-heavy.
- High productivity expectations.
- Hot Pilbara conditions and long shifts.
- Limited entry-level roles without prior experience.
9. Career Progression and Growth
Common Pathways:
- Operator to Dispatcher to Supervisor to Superintendent.
- Fitter or Electrician to Planner to Reliability Engineer.
- Graduate Engineer to Senior Engineer to Technical Superintendent.
- HSE Officer to Senior Advisor to Site Manager.
Development Programs:
- Apprenticeship and graduate programs for trades and engineers.
- Leadership and supervisor development through Rio Tinto Academy.
- Cross-site rotation options between mining, rail, and ports.
- Mentorship and management training programs.
10. The Future of Rio Tinto (2026 to 2030)
- Gudai-Darri Expansion: Continued growth of the autonomous flagship mine, adding roles in automation, process control, and engineering.
- Renewables Transition: New solar and battery power systems supporting carbon reduction goals.
- Technology Integration: Increased demand for digital technicians and remote operations specialists.
- New Pilbara Projects: Investments in exploration and sustaining capital to extend mine life beyond 2040.
With strong demand for skilled trades, operators, and technical staff, Rio Tinto will remain one of Australia’s largest FIFO employers for years to come.
11. Final Thoughts
Working FIFO for Rio Tinto offers career stability, strong pay, and access to cutting-edge mining technology. It’s a structured and professional environment where safety, precision, and teamwork are at the centre of everything.
For tradespeople, operators, and engineers seeking long-term employment with a global industry leader, Rio Tinto stands among the most respected and rewarding FIFO employers in Australia in 2026.
