Xstrata Science Graduate Programme

Graduate Programme

What does a Geologist/Geophysicist do?

Geologists/Geophysicists study the nature, composition and structure of the earth to locate and advise on the economic extraction of precious minerals. They advise on the geological aspects of production at open cut and underground mines, help determine optimised mining plans and discover future mineral resources and mines through exploration.

A typical day for a Geologist/Geophysicist may involve...

  • Exploring, dating and sampling mineral deposits; 
  • Interpreting, mapping and modelling the geology of a mine or exploration prospect; 
  • Advising on grade control and structural geology to minimise mine dilution; 
  • Advising on the geological suitability of sites for mining ventures; 
  • Creating 3-D mine models using CAD (computer-aided design) software;
  • Analysing and interpreting geological data to develop exploration;

Xstrata at a Glance

Our mission is to grow and manage a portfolio of businesses to deliver vital natural resources, industry-leading shareholders returns and sustainable value for our shareholders. We are proud to pursue this aim, in partnership with our stakeholders, developing our people and assets to their fullest potential and making a lasting, positive contribution to society.

We have distilled our distinctive way of doing things down to five core values:

  • We do what we say
  • We act decisively to create value

  • We hold ourselves accountable

  • We act with care

  • We dare to be different



Our values define what it means to work at Xstrata across our global business. They are common to everyone who works at Xstrata, whenever we work and in whatever capacity.

We’re different - and you are too

We actively seek extraordinary students like you - bright and curious individuals. We value your energy, your confidence, your difference.

Join us, grow with us …and reap the rewards. You’ll experience the exhilaration of solving challenging problems, making new friends, caring for and enriching our local communities.

Our Graduate Programme

Join our graduate programme


Xstrata’s graduate programme operates over two years at either an open cut site, underground site, processing plant or our head or regional offices. We encourage our graduates to learn and develop with us.



As part of Xstrata’s graduate programme you’ll receive further training through our excellent, structured professional development programme.



We want you to succeed, not just for the benefit of the organisation but also so you can achieve your own career goals. Our creative and experienced professionals will challenge you each step of the way – to think differently, ask questions and come up with creative solutions. This is your opportunity to test your skills and creativity in real situations. You’ll help to create a positive partnership with communities, and make a lasting contribution to society.


Applications Open: 1 March 2013 - Applications Close: 5 April 2013

Xstrata entry level programmes

Vacation employment programme

12 weeks of on-the-job work experience completed in the university vacation period during your bachelor degree studies. Opportunity to learn about the resources industry and implement your theoretical knowledge in a practical environment, providing you with a stepping stone towards your graduate career.

Applications Open: 1 July 2013 - Applications Close: 18 August 2013

Scholarship opportunities

Valued at $10,000 per annum to support you from 2nd year university through to the completion of your bachelor degree while gaining invaluable experience through our vacation employment programme. Applications Open: 1 March 2013 - Applications Close: 18 April 2013 Graduate programme Two year development programme after completing bachelor degree to kick-start your professional career in resources.

Applications Open: 1 March 2013 - Applications Close: 5 April 2013

What to study at university

To be considered for our programmes you should be studying:

  • Engineering - mining, geotechnical, mechanical, electrical, civil, chemical, metallurgical, environmental
  • Geology, geophysics
  • Environmental science Surveying 
  • Occupational health and safety
  • Human resources
  • Information technology and business systems
  • Accounting, finance

How to Apply

To apply, visit  www.xstratacareers.com. You can search vacancies for graduate opportunities under Job Vacancies/Graduates/Students/Learner Programmes.

Visit  www.xstratagraduates.com to find out what our talented graduates from around Australia have to say about working at Xstrata.

How to Apply

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