Vacation Students 2026/2027

Your new career opportunity: Vacation Student Program 2026/2027

• Gladstone-based position at the QAL Refinery
• Gain valuable on-the-job experience while applying your studies in a practical environment
• Enjoy a 9-day fortnight roster

Join a cohort of like-minded university students and gain valuable experience working on real business challenges. You’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with subject matter experts and senior leaders who will provide mentorship, guidance and support throughout your placement.

Our Vacation Student Program runs for 8 weeks, from 30 November 2026 to 22 January 2027, and is designed to provide a diverse range of learning and development opportunities.

As a Vacation Student, you will have the opportunity to:

• Develop valuable on-the-job skills while applying your university studies in a practical environment
• Experience a workplace where safety is always the number one priority
• Grow both personally and professionally within a dynamic, inclusive and supportive culture
• Collaborate with colleagues and fellow vacation students while building valuable professional networks and lasting relationships
• Work on meaningful projects that address real business challenges and contribute directly to our operations
• Present your project outcomes and recommendations to senior leaders

Please note: Successful applicants will be responsible for arranging and covering their own travel and accommodation for the duration of the program.

We are looking for motivated university students who are eager to gain valuable site experience and contribute in a dynamic, professional work environment. To be successful in this role, you will demonstrate:

• A strong commitment to the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others
• Completion of at least one year of study towards a minimum bachelor’s degree
• Initiative, curiosity and a genuine desire to learn, develop and continuously improve
• A positive and adaptable approach, with the ability to embrace new challenges and develop creative solutions
• A strong academic record and commitment to achieving high standards
• The ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively as part of a team

Where you will be working

 Located on the central Queensland coast, Gladstone is a vibrant regional community with a population of approximately 64,000 people. The region offers an excellent balance of lifestyle and opportunity, with well-established education services, a diverse range of recreational activities, and easy access to the stunning Southern Great Barrier Reef.

https://www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/glad-gladstone

About QAL

 As one of the world's largest alumina refineries, Queensland Alumina Limited (QAL) is renowned for its leadership in minerals processing. We prioritise employee engagement, cutting-edge technology, and exemplary safety, quality, and environmental performance.

 Creating an inclusive and diverse workforce

We foster an inclusive environment where every voice is heard, cultures are respected, and diverse perspectives drive success. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, the LGBTQ+ community, mature workers, people with disabilities, and individuals from various cultural backgrounds.

Applications Close: Sunday, 20 September 2026