About the opportunity

Harness Energy in partnership with Shell’s QGC business is proud to offer its Western Downs Indigenous Traineeship program for a second year.

The Indigenous trainee program provides a foot-in-the-door to the natural gas industry for Indigenous Australians. We are looking for candidates
who are keen to learn and have a positive attitude.

The Western Downs Indigenous Traineeship program is a nine month paid work experience traineeship program for enthusiastic individuals
from regional Queensland. As a Workplace Health and Safety Trainee, individuals will work alongside tradespeople in up to four trades:
Electrical, Manufacturing, Warehousing, and Process Operations.

This role has the potential to kickstart your career in the natural gas sector with the possibility of an apprenticeship or traineeship for successful candidates.

Each trainee receives:

  • Experience in a world class organisation with first class facilities
  • On-the-job training and support by highly skilled technicians at host employers
  • Round-the-clock support from a dedicated Indigenous mentor
  • A structured training program addressing key fundamentals to enter the natural gas sector
  • A solid foundation to build a successful career in a global industry

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for Indigenous Australians with a genuine interest in the trades.

We are keen to receive applications from Indigenous Australians who identify with the following Traditional Owner groups in Shell QGC’s footprint: Iman, Bigambul, Mandandanji, Barunggam, Cobble Cobble, Jarowair, Western Wakka Wakka, Yiman, Wakka Wakka, Wulli Wulli, Gangulu, Bailai, Gooreng Gooreng, Gurang, and Taribelang Bunda

Each role requires different skillsets but overall, we’re looking for individuals who:

  • Have a safety focus;
  • Are keen to learn;
  • Can adapt to change;
  • Are team players with good communication skills.

Our trainees gained a wealth of experience in their short time
learning skills of steel fabrication and the diversity of our regions
career prospects. We can’t wait to meet the trainees of 2021.

- LOUISE MCMAHON

Business Services Manager
MFE Pty Ltd | Host Contractor 2020 and 2021 programs

We’ve had a lot of trainees over the years and I believe these trainees and this program, the set-up of it and the calibre has been probably the best I’ve seen.

- Jamie Short

General Manager & Owner
RiE Group | Host Contractor 2020 and 2021 programs

The Trainees became valued team members whilst onsite and provided great work ethics. The Harness program was beneficial to all our team members introducing cultural diversity and insight into the warehousing and logistics space.

- Jason Kerr

Operations Manager
QUBE Energy | Host Contractor 2020 and 2021 programs

How do I apply?

To register your interest for this program, fill out the form below!

The Harness recruitment officer and Indigenous mentors will then be in touch with you to discuss your interest in the program and help you to put your best foot forward.

Your cover letter: introducing yourself and highlighting your interests in the chosen trade and any relevant skills you bring to the role.

Your resume: outlining your personal details, education, relevant skills or work experience. Please be sure to include the names and contact details of two character or job referees on your resume.

If you already have a cover letter and resume and don’t need any additional support, you can submit your application straight away by uploading them at the same time as registering your interest.

If you need help with your cover letter or application, let us know and we can link you with one-on-one support.

The Recruitment Process

Mon 25 Jan - Fri 26 Feb 2021

Candidates are asked to register their interest in the program online by submitting their phone number and email here

harnessenergy.com.au/apply

Thu 4 Feb - Fri 26 Feb 2021

Candidates will be interviewed via telephone by a Harness recruitment officer, with reference checks to be carried out by Harness shortly after. Successful candidates will be shortlisted for stage three.

Thu 4 Feb - Fri 26 Feb 2021

Candidates will be asked to attend a face-to-face interview with a Harness recruitment officer and the Harness Indigenous Mentor.

Successful candidates will be shortlisted for Stage four.

Tue 3 Mar + Wed 4 Mar 2021

This stage allows us to find out more about you, your natural talents and your interests to discover the best roles you would be suited for. Candidates will be asked to complete some brief questionnaires which can include behavioural and personality questions.

Successful candidates will be shortlisted for stage five.

Tue 3 Mar + Wed 4 Mar 2021

Candidates will be asked to attend a group assessment centres with other short-listed candidates. Successful candidates will be shortlisted for stage six.

Fri 12 Mar - Tue 30 Mar 2021

This stage is where indicative approval to the program is granted subject to final reference checks, medical testing including drug & alcohol, and fitness. All candidates will be notified on the 30th March 2021.

Successful candidates will be provided with a formal offer and entry to the

WESTERN DOWNS INDIGENOUS TRAINEESHIP PROGRAM

commencing 12th April 2021

Thaikeem’s story

Over the course of 2020, Thaikeem and his seven classmates gained qualifications like a Cert III in Workplace Health and Safety, and completed work placements with a range of businesses including Corbet’s Civil, LCR Group, MFE, MPC Kinetic, Pro-Test Solutions, RIE, Qube, Veolia Water and Pro-Crew. All eight trainees graduated from the program, and all eight participants have been successful in gaining ongoing apprenticeships and career opportunities in the local community.

READ MORE

Watch the 2020 program video

Host contractors

As a Workplace Health and Safety Trainee, individuals will work alongside tradespeople in up to four trades:

  • Electrical,
  • Manufacturing,
  • Warehousing, and
  • Process Operations.

Successful candidates will be supported on a weekly basis by the Harness Indigenous mentor throughout the duration of their traineeship including during host employer rotations. Each hosting period will be for 10 weeks per trainee on rotation, for a duration of nine months.

If you are a contractor to Shell’s QGC business working in Electrical, Manufacturing, Warehousing & Process Operations, and you have the capacity to supervise, train and mentor an Indigenous trainee over a period of 9 months, then we would love for you to get in touch with Harness and register your interest to become a Host contractor.

Thank you to our 2020 host contractors

Mentorship support

We are proud to have two full-time Indigenous mentors as part of our Harness team and leading our Trainees through the Western Downs Indigenous Traineeship Pathway Program.

Peter Jackson

INDIGENOUS MENTOR

Peter Jackson is a proud Mandandanji and Gunggari man, born in Chinchilla and is now based there for the Western Downs Indigenous Traineeship program. Peter works one-on-one with each of the Trainees as well as their Host Contractors to ensure they each receive the support they need and are given the building blocks for success.

Peter has also been instrumental in developing Harness’ cultural awareness training. Peter gives an overview of the history of Australian Aboriginal people to create education and awareness of the past and the present so that we may walk together in the future.

Peter works with the participants around the adaptability of Aboriginal culture and how this can be implemented into communities all over Australia.

Shari Eggmolesse

TRAINEE INDIGENOUS MENTOR

Shari graduated from the inaugural Western Downs Indigenous Traineeship program in 2020, successfully completing her Certificate III in Workplace Health and Safety and was offered a position with Harness as a trainee mentor for the 2021 program.

Shari is a warm and effective communicator and develops rapport quickly with a wide range of people from diverse backgrounds.

Shari is a proud Gurang and Bigambul woman who works across Harness’ Chinchilla and Toowoomba facilities and is excited to work with and support this year’s trainees.

Having just gone through the program herself, we could not think of anyone better to be a mentor (aside from Peter).

The Western Downs

About Chinchilla

Located two hours west of Toowoomba on the Warrego Highway, between Miles and Dalby, Chinchilla is known as the melon capital of Australia, producing 25 percent of all Australian watermelons.

Including the surrounding towns of Brigalow, Kogan and Warra, Chinchilla also has a rich history in fossicking for petrified wood, attracting visitors from all over the world to seek out its own special variety – Chinchilla Red. The Chinchilla Weir is also popular with locals and visitors interested in birdwatching, camping, fishing and water sports.

Chinchilla has no shortage of medical facilities, from its own hospital with operating theatre, to private dental practices, general practitioners and specialists.

With plenty of open space and outdoor activities, including the new 4.2 hectare Botanic Parkland adjacent to the town centre, and the refurbished multi-purpose skate park, Chinchilla is a popular town to raise a family.

Relocation support

With many of Shell’s QGC business staff and contractors calling the Western Downs home, we know the region is a fantastic place to live, work and raise a family. We want more of our employees living locally and we know the Western Downs has so much to offer.

Relocating anywhere can be daunting but with the Western Downs Indigenous Traineeship Pathway program you will be fully supported whether it be through our Indigenous mentors, relocation packs with information on key resources such as schools, services, businesses and community groups, and in some instances financial assistance for relocation, we’re confident the transition for individuals and families will be made easier.

Frequently asked questions

FAQ’s for Candidates

It can be hard to know if you will enjoy or be successful in your traineeship before you start.

If you have questions, we suggest you speak with our Indigenous Mentor(s) to learn more about the industry and discuss your current experience and what you hope to achieve out of a traineeship.

Register your interest on the form below and the Harness Mentor to get in touch with you to assist you with submitting your application.

Your application will need to include a cover letter and a resume outlining your interest(s) in the chosen trade and any relevant skills you bring to your traineeship.

Your cover letter is your chance to tell us a little bit about you, why you want the traineeship and what makes you the right fit for the role.

Please also be sure to tell us about what interests you, how you are involved in your local community and why these things will make you a great fit for the Shell operated QGC business.

Think of your resume as a collection of your skills and experience. We’d like to see your school and subjects listed along with your grades and any pre-vocational certificates you have completed. Be sure to include any full-time or part-time work too, along with any work experience or volunteer work where you may have been part of a team. Don’t forget to include any clubs or groups you are actively involved in.

You will need to include at least two (2) referees along with their contact details in your resume.

A great referee is someone who knows you, your skills and strengths, has managed and/or mentored you, and can tell us about what will make you a great apprentice or trainee. They might be a teacher at school, a supervisor at work, or a coach of a sports team you play for.

We are looking for Indigenous Australians with a genuine interest in the trades. We’re looking for people who:  

  • Have a safety focus
  • Are keen to learn
  • Can adapt to change
  • Are team players with good communication skills.

You must be able to verify your indigenous heritage through Elders or a Statutory Declaration.

Yes, of course! Harness (and the Shell operated QGC business) train mature aged students and trainees – your life experience is incredibly valuable! If you have a genuine interest in the trades and are a team player with good communication skills, we urge you to apply – regardless of your age!

The recruitment and selection process can take up to three months, with the traineeship commencing on 12th of April 2021. Candidates will be required to participate in each stage of the selection process to be considered for a traineeship position.

The Harness assessment centres are designed to be a comfortable, fun, and safety focussed group interview experience with other candidates, where you will be assessed on your teamwork, communication skills, and practical ability. 

Applications will close on Friday 26th February 2021.

If you are successful, you will be offered a position via both telephone and email with a copy of your employment contract and relevant onboarding documentation required to commence your Traineeship with Harness.

Candidates will be kept updated as to their progress in each stage of the recruitment process either by phone and/or email.

Successful traineeships will commence on 12th April 2021.

Your remuneration will vary depending on your age and any previous qualifications you may have obtained. Note that this program offers Above Award rates.

On occasion, you will be expected to participate in overtime or rosters during the course of your traineeship and this will be paid at a higher rate depending on the type of overtime. Each year you progress through your traineeship, your pay rate will increase slightly to recognise the additional skills you can now offer the role.

Trainee hours may vary depending on the host employer, this may include rosters, above and beyond a 38-hour week. This will be communicated with each individual trainee dependent on placement with each host employer. Please keep in mind this may not include your study commitments which will also vary depending on your progression of your traineeship.

There is an expectation that you will live and work within the Western Downs for this program. However, relocation support can be provided for individuals on a case-by-case basis. This will need to be discussed with the Harness Indigenous mentor in the recruitment process.

Yes, full PPE will be provided to successful candidates to the program.

It is a requirement of all positions that you have reliable transport to and from work. While it is preferred that you hold a Provisional Drivers Licence, a Drivers Licence is not required immediately but will need to be achievable in a 24-month timeframe from the commencement of this program. 

FAQ’s for Host Employers

The program incurs zero expense to the host employer and is fully funded by Shell QGC. However, please note that roster or overtime requirements outside of a standard 38-hour work week, will need to be paid by the Host Employer, and is not funded by Shell.

To support all stakeholders in the program, Harness encourages all host employers to attend a cultural awareness training day, facilitated by Harness to provide as much support and training as possible. Further information for training day dates and locations can be provided upon request.

Yes, we encourage all host employers to be involved and attend the group assessment centres. Further information for group assessment centres can be provided upon request.

All trainees will go through Shell QGC induction training. Specific contractor requirements will need to be discussed ahead of onboarding.

Standard Shell QGC medicals are provided at no cost to the host employer. However, trainees can complete a medical test facilitated by specific contractor requirements., noting this will be at the cost of the Host employer.

In order to complete a signed service agreement, Host Employers will need to provide WHS site inspection and documentation, public liability insurance certificate and a credit application form. Please contact us for more information.

About us

Harness exists to realise potential:
the potential of our employees, our
contractors and our clients.
This is the Harness way!

A major aspect of this and what we do, is prioritising safety, for our employees, our contractors and our clients.

It is our vision to consistently supply our clients with compliant, well-trained and safe employees; preventing fatalities and injuries, minimising down-time and reducing associated costs, to individuals, families, and businesses.

It is our vision to be the thought leader in safety training and the major player in labour supply across a diverse range of mid-high risk environments and industries.

Harness is incredibly proud to partner with Shell’s QGC business for a second year in delivering this incredible program.

Shell’s QGC business is located in Queensland in Eastern Australia. We are one of Australia’s leading natural gas producers, focused on developing Queensland’s world-class onshore gas reserves.

Shell has been operating in Australia since 1901. Today, Shell Australia is focused largely on the upstream sector, especially in the exploration, development and production of natural gas as part of their LNG business.

Your interest in working for Shell Australia is the first step towards a great career that focuses on securing an energy future for generations to come. Shell Australia can offer you a platform from which you can propel your career and work on diverse projects such as the game‐changing Prelude FLNG, the industry leading QGC project in Queensland, or a wide range of upstream exploration to development opportunities.

Realise
Your Potential

APPLY TODAY

Get in touch

Brisbane

1/45 Alexandra Place, Murarrie QLD

Toowoomba

Unit 2 / 5-7 Spalding Street, Harristown QLD

Chinchilla

60 Heeney Street, Chinchilla QLD

1800 Harness

Apply Now

    Applications have closed for this year’s intake. Thank you for your interest