BHP announced on Friday that it will hire 1,500 additional people to support its workforce operating across Australia.
The 1,500 jobs will be offered as six-month contracts and cover a range of skills needed by BHP operations in the short term.
The jobs will support and bolster the existing workforce during this difficult time, BHP said.
The roles will include machinery and production operators, truck and ancillary equipment drivers, excavator operators, diesel mechanics boilermakers, trades assistants, electricians, cleaners and warehousing roles across coal, iron ore and copper operations.
Following the initial six-month contract, BHP said it may offer permanent roles.
The government has said that the resources industry is vital in Australia’s response to the global pandemic
The company said that will continue to assess this program and may increase the number of jobs available.
“As part of BHP’s social distancing measures we are introducing more small teams with critical skills to work dynamically across different shifts,” BHP acting Minerals Australia president Edgar Basto said.
“The government has said that the resources industry is vital in Australia’s response to the global pandemic,” Basto added. “We are stepping up and providing jobs and contracts. Our suppliers, large and small, play a critical role in supporting our operations. It is a tough time for our communities and the economy. We must look out for each other as we manage through this together.”
BHP said on Thursday its operations had not been materially impacted so far by the coronavirus pandemic