How to Get Your First FIFO Job with No Experience

Getting your first FIFO (Fly-In Fly-Out) job can feel intimidating—especially when every listing asks for experience you don’t yet have. But here’s the good news: thousands of Australians land FIFO jobs every year with little to no experience in the field. You just need the right approach, the right certifications, and a clear understanding of the industry.

What is FIFO Work?

FIFO stands for Fly-In Fly-Out. Workers are flown into remote locations—often in the mining, oil & gas, or construction sectors—for a set roster (like 2 weeks on, 1 week off), and then flown home. It’s a lifestyle that demands resilience, independence, and adaptability.

Step 1: Understand What Roles Are Entry-Level

You don’t need a trade to get started. Many roles offer on-the-job training. Common entry-level FIFO jobs include:

• Utility Worker (cleaning, catering, laundry)
• Trade Assistant
• Camp Attendant
• Kitchen Hand
• Groundskeeper
• Traffic Controller

These roles don’t require previous FIFO experience but do require the right attitude, flexibility, and work ethic.

Step 2: Get the Must-Have Certifications

Most FIFO jobs require:

• White Card – Mandatory for construction and mine site access.
• Police Clearance – To show you’re fit for site-based work.
• Medical Clearance & Drug Testing – Sites need to know you’re medically fit for the role.
• High-Risk Licenses (optional) – EWP, Forklift, Confined Space—these can help you stand out.

You can complete many of these certifications online or via short courses. Start with your White Card—it’s the gateway to most FIFO jobs.

Step 3: Build a FIFO-Ready Resume

Your resume should:

• Focus on transferable skills (teamwork, time management, reliability)
• Highlight physical fitness and ability to handle remote conditions
• Mention any short courses or certificates completed
• Be clean, concise, and tailored to FIFO-specific keywords

At FIFO Australia, we’ve written thousands of resumes that get seen by recruiters. If you’re unsure, we can help write one that gets you noticed.

Step 4: Apply Strategically

Look beyond the major job boards. FIFO roles are often posted on:

• SEEK (search “Utility FIFO” or “Entry Level FIFO”)
• Facebook Groups like “FIFO Jobs Australia”
• Company career pages: Sodexo, Compass Group, Programmed, etc.
• Labour hire agencies: Hays, Chandler Macleod, WorkPac

Set alerts, apply often, and don’t be discouraged by rejections. It’s a numbers game early on.

Step 5: Prepare for Life on Site

Once you get an interview, know that recruiters will assess not just your skills—but whether you’re ready for the FIFO lifestyle.

• Are you OK being away from family for 1–3 weeks?
• Can you live in shared accommodation?
• Are you flexible with your roster?
• Are you prepared to work long days, in heat or harsh environments?

Being honest about your readiness will not only help you land a role—it’ll help you last.

Final Tip: Invest in Yourself Early

The FIFO lifestyle can be life-changing—but only if you’re prepared. A few hundred dollars in tickets and training can lead to a six-figure income and a job that gives you back your time. If you want to go from no experience to job-ready, we’re here to help.

Ready to take the first step? Reach out to our team today, and we’ll help guide your entry into FIFO the right way.