Graduate Mechanical Engineer

About Us: 

We are Kestrel - one of the world’s largest producing underground coking coal mines, delivering around 7 million tonnes of high-quality metallurgical coal annually to global steelmakers.

But what truly sets us apart is our culture.  It’s not uncommon to walk down the breezeway and strike up a conversation with our CEO or Executive Leaders.  We believe that great ideas come from anyone, and we empower our team members to bring their insights forward - knowing they’ll be heard, valued and that the path from idea to implementation is refreshingly short.

We strive to create an environment where everyone feels respected and supported.  Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting your career, at Kestrel, you’ll find opportunities to grow, contribute, and have meaningful impact.

With a mine life to 2033 and reserves to 2046, we’re planning for a future that’s safe, sustainable, and full of opportunity - for our industry and our people.  We’re proud of where we’ve come from, and even more excited about what’s ahead.

About the role: 

The Graduate Mechanical Engineer role provides an exciting opportunity to build a career in underground coal mining while developing both operational and technical engineering capability. Reporting to the Superintendent Engineering, this role forms part of Kestrel's NEXTGEN Graduate Program and is designed to develop well-rounded engineers through a combination of operational experience, technical development and meaningful project work.

Unlike many graduate programs, your first 12 months will focus on gaining a deep understanding of underground mining operations. You will spend significant time working alongside operational and maintenance crews underground, developing practical knowledge of equipment, processes, production activities and the challenges faced by frontline teams. This operational foundation will provide invaluable context for your future engineering career.

Following this initial development period, you will transition into a more technical engineering focus, supporting mechanical reliability, asset management, infrastructure projects and continuous improvement initiatives across the operation. Throughout the program, you will be supported by experienced mentors and leaders who are committed to your development.

Why you’ll love working here:

• A permanent role on a site with a strong future – long mine life and room to grow.
• Monday to Friday or a 9-day fortnight, the choice is yours.
• Great pay and perks - Including competitive incentives, housing options, and salary packaging.
• Health-first mindset - With our award-winning Health Program and subsidised private health insurance.
• Supported to grow - We’ll back your development through tailored programs like our award-winning ‘Unleashed’ Leadership Program and study assistance.
• A culture that walks the talk - Respect, agility, commitment and collaborating as one, aren’t just values - they’re how we operate, every day.

In this role, you will support Kestrel by: 

• Developing a strong understanding of underground mining operations through hands-on operational and maintenance experience.
• Working alongside underground crews to gain practical exposure to mining equipment, infrastructure and operational processes.
• Supporting safe and efficient production outcomes through active participation in operational activities and improvement initiatives.
• Assisting with mechanical reliability and asset management activities across underground operations.
• Contributing to engineering investigations, root cause analysis and defect elimination initiatives.
• Supporting the management and optimisation of underground mechanical systems and infrastructure.
• Assisting with the planning and delivery of engineering projects and capital improvement initiatives.
• Participating in risk assessments, audits and continuous improvement programs.
• Developing engineering reports, technical documentation and performance analysis.
• Building strong working relationships with operational, maintenance and technical teams across site.
• Contributing to projects that improve safety, reliability, productivity and operational performance.

About you:

You're an enthusiastic and motivated graduate who is excited by the opportunity to learn how a world-class underground mining operation works. You understand that becoming a great engineer starts with understanding the people, equipment and processes that drive the business, and you're eager to gain hands-on operational experience before developing deeper technical expertise.

tYou will also have:

• A tertiary qualification in Mechanical Engineering or be in your final year of study.
• A genuine interest in mining, heavy industry, asset management or operational engineering.
• A willingness to work underground and gain practical operational experience as part of your development.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with a desire to understand how things work and how they can be improved.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships across a diverse workforce.
• A proactive attitude, strong work ethic and commitment to continuous learning.
• The ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Sound computer literacy and the ability to learn new systems and technologies.
• Willingness to complete required site training, including underground inductions, medical assessments and statutory requirements.

A Place Where You Can Be You:

At Kestrel, we’re building a workplace where everyone can thrive. Inclusion is active, and equity is intentional - not a KPI.

We celebrate people from all cultures, communities, and identities, and we’re committed to creating a safe, respectful, and supportive environment where you can be yourself.

We welcome applications from everyone - including First Nations people, women and candidates from culturally diverse backgrounds. 

If you need adjustments or support through the application process, just let us know - we’re here to help.

How to apply:

Ready to take the next step?  Hit the Apply Now link to send us your resume. 

Got questions?  Reach out to:  recruitment@kestrelcoal.com

Applications close:  12 July 2026.

Please note:  We may progress suitable candidates before the closing date – so don’t wait too long!

What to Expect from the Recruitment Process:

At Kestrel, we’re focused on building the right team – people who bring energy, integrity, and the skills to make a difference.  Our recruitment process is designed to help both you and us make informed, confident decisions.

From your first enquiry to final offer, you’ll be supported by a dedicated in-house recruiter – someone who’s part of the Kestrel team and who understands the role and the workplace.

The process typically involves initial conversations, two-way interviews and a site visit so you can get a real feel for working at Kestrel.  We also conduct pre-employment checks including criminal history screening, medical assessments, work rights and qualification verifications, and reference checks.

We’ll keep the process clear, respectful and timely – and we’re here to support you at every step.