Paid work experience

Paid work experience

Rio Tinto uses the phrase 'paid work experience' to cover three descriptions of temporary employment for undergraduate and postgraduate students. These include internships, cooperative placements and vacation work.

It should be noted that the above terms may have different meanings in different countries. It is generally, though not exclusively, accepted that internships relate to the US, cooperative (or coop) placements relate to Canada and vacation work places relate to Australia and Europe.

All paid work experience options offer 'real job' hands-on experience in work areas such as engineering, operations, maintenance, information technology, geology, business operation, marketing, or community and external relations. 

On arrival students undertake a comprehensive medical (which includes an alcohol and drug screen where permitted by law), and are given a thorough induction before starting their assignment.

Students benefit from gaining on-site experience in their chosen discipline which will enhance their ability to plan their careers. A period of paid work experience will encourage and support both professional and personal development.

Students receive a salary, travel and accommodation assistance and personal protective equipment.

Students are recruited directly through universities and colleges or by advertisement at varying times of the year depending on location.

It is strongly recommended that interested students register to receive our online Graduate newsletter which will advise when applications open.