Alcoa Australia opens graduate program

Alcoa Australia (ASX: AAI) has opened 18 vacancies across 12 disciplines to university graduates looking to build long-term careers in the mining, refining and smelting sectors.The 2027 graduate program offers opportunities at Alcoa’s bauxite mines and alumina refineries in the Peel and Upper South West regions of WA, as well as at the company’s Australian headquarters in Perth and the Portland aluminium smelter in Victoria.(Image source: Alcoa Australia) Kelly Pillay is a graduate geotechnical engineer at Alcoa’s Pinjarra refinery.The three-year, full-time program provides permanent employment and structured rotations which Alcoa says are designed to build technical capability, business understanding and professional confidence.Alcoa Wagerup refinery robotics engineer and former graduate Remi Hart explains his work experience.“You typically spend six months in one area, then move to a different site to gain new experience,” he said.“I was able to shadow operators to better understand their perspective while deepening my technical expertise.“I’ve had the flexibility to pursue my interest, particularly in robotics and mechanical systems. I’ve managed projects, development concepts and gained full end-to-end experience through the program.”(Image source: Alcoa Australia) Remi Hart is a former graduate and now a Robotics Engineer at Alcoa’s Wagerup refinery.Alcoa Pinjarra graduate geotechnical engineer Kelly Pillay says it has been invaluable to gain experience across different disciplines.“As someone new to the business, it’s been a great learning experience being exposed to different disciplines,” she said.“I’ve worked alongside geotechnical and civil engineers and interfaced with mechanical infrastructure teams. The program exposes you to areas you don’t necessarily learn at university. It makes you more adaptable and well-rounded as an engineer.”Graduates can pursue careers across a diverse range of technical and non-technical positions including mechanical, electrical, chemical, mining and infrastructure engineering, information systems, occupational hygiene, procurement, environment and health and safety.Applications close on March 29 with the program starting in January 2027.