Calling for New Apprentices in Western Australia

Alcoa Australia is calling for applications from aspiring mechanical fitters, heavy diesel fitters, boilermaker/welders and electrical instrumentation technicians to commence apprenticeships in 2026. 

The four-year apprenticeship programs, commencing in January next year, are on offer across Alcoa’s Huntly and Willowdale bauxite mines and the Pinjarra and Wagerup alumina refineries in the Peel and upper South West regions of Western Australia. 

With 23 roles on offer, the positions offer competitive remuneration and benefits, and successful applicants who complete their apprenticeships will be awarded nationally recognised trade certificates. A big benefit is that apprentices are able to live at home and travel to and from site for each shift. 

With Alcoa’s strong commitment to local employment and support for the communities near its operations, the apprenticeships are particularly suited to people living in the Peel and South West regions. 

For first-year mechanical fitting apprentice Taleeyah Homewood, the hands-on aspects of the job and ability to interact with experienced tradespeople are highlights. 

“We took the top and bottom heads off a heater tank, which was a very large job and took a few weeks,” Taleeyah said. 

“I got to help out and be on all the tools. I didn’t expect to be so hands on in the first few months - I’m learning a lot and I’m very excited about it.”  

According to fourth-year apprentice Heidi Blurton, who is close to completing her mechanical fitting apprenticeship, the ability to rotate between sites and operational areas has been a highlight. 

“I started at the Kwinana refinery, where I learned the basics, then went to Pinjarra and into the workshop, learning to pull apart gearboxes, working with bearings,” Heidi said. 

“From there I went to the mine site, learning about conveyer belts, rollers, wear plates, the crushing system and how it all works. 

“Now I’m with the breakdown maintenance group based at Wagerup. You could be at the powerhouse, or at the mine site – you could be anywhere. If it breaks down, you just go and fix it. 

“I got to learn all that in four years – it’s gone fast but it’s been amazing.” 

Applications for the Alcoa Apprenticeship Program are open now and close on Monday, 21 July. Additional opportunities at Alcoa’s Portland Aluminium Smelter in Victoria will open next month. 

For more information, see www.alcoa.com/careers/en/australia-talent-programs.