Vacation Student

Yancoal Vacation Program 2026

Kick-start your career with Yancoal's Vacation Program

Spend your summer gaining practical, hands-on experience, learning from industry experts, and exploring the diverse career pathways available across our operations.

This paid 10-12 week program offers the opportunity to apply your studies in a real-world environment, develop technical and professional skills, and build valuable industry connections.

Successful Vacation Students will also gain exclusive access to future opportunities within Yancoal's Graduate Program.

We are looking for students in the following disciplines:

• Mining Engineering
• Environmental Sciences/Engineering
• Geology
• Chemical/Process Engineering
• Surveying

Who are we?

Welcome to Yancoal. For nearly 20 years, we have been supporting the prosperity of Australia. With over 4,500 people working across our operations, our team is made up of experts in their field from various engineering fields to operators, to environmentalists, geologists, surveyors, tradespeople, accountants, marketers and beyond. We are proud of our people and everything we achieve together as One Yancoal. Yancoal Australia now owns, operates, or participates in nine producing coal mines across NSW, Queensland and Western Australia.

What does it look like to live close to our sites?

Singleton: The quaint country town offering a 'much freer lifestyle'. Singleton sits on the bank of the Hunter River, about two hour’s drive from Sydney and less than an hour from Newcastle. The Hunter Valley’s best vineyards and restaurants are less than half an hour away by car. In Singleton’s oldest streets, grand 1800s buildings reflect the township’s early thriving agricultural industry.

Mudgee: Mudgee is surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, including rolling hills, vineyards, and national parks. The region's picturesque landscapes and unique geology make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Living in Mudgee means having easy access to nature, with ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and picnicking with family and friends.

Blackwater: Blackwater is a rural town located in the Central Highlands Region, Queensland, Australia. It is a town in a significant coal mining area in Central Queensland. The name of the township was inspired by the dark colour of local waterholes. A Mining town where generally everyone looks out for each other.

Chinchilla: Chinchilla is a rural town located in the Western Downs Region, Queensland, Australia. Renowned as the "Melon Capital of Australia", it has a strong agricultural history and plays an important role in Queensland's energy industry. A friendly country town with a strong sense of community, where people are welcoming, supportive, and always willing to lend a hand.

As a Vacation Student at Yancoal you will:

• Gain valuable hands-on industry experience while working alongside experienced professionals and industry experts.
• Apply the knowledge you've gained at university to real-world projects and operational challenges.
• Explore the diverse range of career pathways available across Yancoal's operations and corporate functions.
• Develop your technical, professional, and leadership skills in a supportive learning environment.
• Contribute to meaningful work and see firsthand how Yancoal is building a better future through responsible and sustainable mining practices.
• Build connections with industry leaders and expand your professional network.
• Be considered for future opportunities within Yancoal's Graduate Program (subject to eligibility) or invited back to participate in future Vacation Programs.
• Enjoy a fully supported placement, with accommodation, relocation assistance, and uniforms provided.

What does life as a Vacation Student at Yancoal look like?

No two days are the same. Throughout your placement, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Take ownership of meaningful project work and contribute to real business outcomes.
• Gain exposure to the latest technologies, systems, and software used across the mining industry.
• Learn how technical expertise, innovation, and teamwork drive operational success.
• Work closely with experienced professionals who will mentor and support your development.
• Develop practical skills and industry knowledge that will help set you up for future career success.

What do you need to join our program?

• Be able to work full time during your summer break.
• You are currently undertaking a degree in Mining Engineering, Environmental Science/Engineering, Geology, Chemical/Process Engineering, or Surveying and are in your second year or above.
• Be able to temporarily relocate to our mine sites across regional NSW, QLD or WA.

Yancoal Australia values diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from people with diverse backgrounds including First Nations people, people with disability, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and people that identify as LGBTQIA+.

Yancoal Australia is a Work180 Endorsed Employer and is committed to ensuring all employees can thrive in an inclusive workplace.

If this sounds like the opportunity you've been looking for, apply today and take the first step toward an exciting new journey with us!

Be careful of scams

Yancoal will never ask you to make any payment or to provide credit card details when applying for any of our positions. If you have any concerns regarding the authenticity of communications received representing Yancoal, please email recruitment@yancoal.com.au with the subject “Fraud Query”, outlining your concern.