Is a cover letter for mining job applications necessary? Yes. Most online job ads will ask for a cover letter as well as your mining resume. These two documents serve different purposes. Picture your resume as a toolbox filled with different tools (your skills, experiences and achievements). Your mining cover letter is the project proposal. It explains how you plan to use those tools to contribute to the job you are applying for.
Here are 9 things to keep in mind when writing your mining cover letter.
1. Make sure your mining cover letter is specific to the job you are applying for.
Recruiters hate it when they receive cover letters mentioning different jobs or companies to the one they’re advertising. Emma Nicholson, of Mining HR, says this happens more often than you’d think “This is a real turn-off to any recruiter,” Emma says. Use the exact job title of the job you are applying for. Where possible, address it to the hiring manager or contact person for the job.
2. Address every point under the “What We Are Looking For” (or similar) sections.
If the ad asks for a list of tickets, you need to address each one in your cover letter. If they want a certain level of experience, explain how you meet that criteria. According to Emma “you need to make it as easy as possible for the recruiter to see you’re the best person for the job. While sometimes this can feel like you’re parroting the job ad, this is actually quite helpful.”
3. Mention your commitment to safety.
This is key in the mining industry, and a short summary of your safety commitment is often well-received. It can also help you get through any Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). For example, you could mention your unblemished safety record, or a safety award you won in your last role.
4. Discuss your teamwork skills.
Since often mining roles require a lot of collaboration, examples of when you have worked in a team can help you stand out amongst the competition.
5. Express your enthusiasm for the job.
Are you excited for the role because you’ve heard about the company’s positive reputation? Do you like the idea of being closer to home? Do you have new skills you want to use? Mention these aspects in your cover letter. While salary is often a motivator (we’re only human!), it’s generally better to focus on other aspects of the role that appeal to you.
6. Keep it to one page.
Your cover letter should be a brief introduction to you, and your motivation for the role.
7. Use professional language and format.
Use a standard business format. Include your contact information, the date, and the recipient’s details. Maintain a polite and professional tone throughout.
8. Review your document for typos or grammatical errors.
Sometimes saving the document in PDF after you’ve written it can help you pick up errors you haven’t noticed during the writing phase. You could also consider having a friend review it for you.
9. Highlight relevant mining experience.
This should be clearly mentioned, as often mining recruiters are looking for someone who has experience. Discuss your previous roles and responsibilities. Use specific examples of major projects or achievements where possible.
Mining cover letter examples can help you understand what is required. To illustrate these tips,
Here’s an example of a mining cover letter:
John Jones
johnjones@gmail.com
Sally Hopkins
Mines R Us
Sally.hopkins@minesrus.com.au
Dear Sally,
I am writing to express my strong interest in the Machinery Operator position at XYZ Mine, as advertised. With 5 years’ experience operating heavy machinery at ABC Mine and a commitment to safety and teamwork, I am eager for a new challenge.
Currently working a 3:1 roster, the 1:1 roster at XYZ Mine very much appeals to me. Likewise, with XYZ Mine located an hour away from XYZ town, where my family reside, I look forward to the opportunity for less commuting.
I have a comprehensive background in operating a wide range of heavy machinery, including Dump Trucks – Mechanical CAT 789, Electric Komatsu 830E, Water Cart – CAT 777, 785, Grader – 16 to 24, Dozer – D10, D11 and Excavator – Hitachi 3600 to 5600.
I am proud to have maintained an impeccable safety record throughout my career. I consistently adhere to safety protocols and actively contribute to a culture of safety awareness. Last year, at ABC Mine, I was awarded the monthly safety award for recognising and addressing an issue in one of the machines.
I have a strong history of successfully working within diverse teams to achieve common goals. For example, in my previous role at ABC Mine, I played a key role in coordinating equipment movements to optimise efficiency and safety.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of further discussing my qualifications in an interview.
Sincerely,
John Jones
We hope this mining cover letter helps you develop your own application.
If you need further assistance, our team of expert writers are on hand to assist develop a tailored, professional cover letter that reflects you and the job you want.
Simply send us your resume and the link to the mining job you want to apply for, and we’ll send you your completed mining cover letter ready to submit.
