FOUR early-career opportunities at the Port of Esperance have opened to applicants, with Southern Ports advertising three apprenticeships and one business administration traineeship.
The roles are aimed at candidates seeking workplace-based training without leaving Esperance, and add to an apprenticeship program the port authority says has supported more than 30 apprentices and trainees over the past decade.
Southern Ports chief executive officer Keith Wilks said the program was part of a broader effort to build local capability while strengthening the organisation’s regional workforce.
“As a leading employer in Esperance we know that workplace learning opportunities are an invaluable way of upskilling our community to have a lasting impact,” Mr Wilks said.
“We’ve supported over 30 apprentices and trainees over the last decade because they are not only an investment into the future of our own workforce, they are an investment into our communities.
“These early career development opportunities are not only great for our apprentices and trainees, they are also a way of introducing new knowledge into our organisation.”
Applications are being sought from aspiring boilermakers, electricians and mechanical fitters. The three apprenticeship positions are in addition to the five apprentices already employed at the port.
Third-year apprentice boilermaker Logan Brown, who grew up in Esperance, said the role had given him both practical skills and the opportunity to remain in his hometown.
“I wanted to be a boilermaker because I always enjoyed doing fabrication work with my dad on speedway cars, when the apprenticeship came up it was a chance I jumped at,” Mr Brown said.
“My apprenticeship has not only taught me some invaluable skills, it has also allowed me to build some great relationships with my colleague at the Port.
“I also just love working by the water every day – that’s not something I’d get completing my apprenticeship elsewhere.”
Business administration trainee turned office coordinator Emma Sticken. Image: Southern Ports
Southern Ports is also recruiting for a business administration trainee, with the role offering on-the-job learning while the successful applicant completes a Certificate in Business Administration.
Emma Sticken, who recently moved into an office coordinator role after completing her business administration traineeship, said the experience provided responsibility early and strong support from colleagues.
“Southern Ports has provided me personal and professional development opportunities I don’t think I would have gotten elsewhere,” Ms Sticken said.
“Before my traineeship I had considered a move to Perth, but the role allowed me to stay in my hometown while developing valuable skills, gaining a nationally recognised qualification, and building my career.
“Being able to learn on the job while remaining close to family and friends made the opportunity even more valuable.”
Applications close on 2 October 2026 through the Southern Ports website.