The Ballarat Gold Mine is offering an exceptional opportunity for a skilled Bogger Operator to join our underground mining team on a residential basis. This is your chance to leave behind FIFO or remote work and become part of a vibrant local community just 100km from Melbourne. If you have the experience and a strong commitment to safety, we offer an excellent roster, competitive pay, and the work-life balance you’ve been looking for.
Company Overview
The Ballarat Gold Mine provides a unique residential mining opportunity, allowing professionals to enjoy both career growth and a fulfilling lifestyle in the heart of Ballarat. We are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive work environment where safety and respect are paramount. As an Equal Opportunity employer, we value diversity and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including women and Indigenous Australians. Our focus is on building a team that reflects the community we operate in.
Key Responsibilities
As a Bogger Operator, you will play a vital role in the efficiency and safety of our underground operations. Reporting directly to the Underground Shift Supervisor, your key duties will include:
- Operating boggers (loaders) to load development headings and production stopes, and efficiently tramming material from stockpiles to maintain full truck productivity.
- Performing both manual and tele-remote bogging from open stopes, ensuring faces are thoroughly cleaned and bogged out.
- Conducting critical safety inspections for misfires, promptly notifying the Shift Supervisor, and carrying out necessary scaling and hosing down.
- Maintaining all roadways in your working area, keeping them tidy, free from water pooling, and clear of potential hazards.
- Upholding the highest possible standard of safety focus and compliance with all site policies and procedures.
Qualifications
To succeed in this role, you must possess a solid foundation of underground mining experience and the right attitude:
- A minimum of 3+ years of proven experience as a Bogger Operator in underground hard rock mining is mandatory.
- Specific, hands-on experience with bogging development headings and production stopes, watering, and scaling.
- Proficiency in operating Sandvik and-or Caterpillar loaders; tele-remote experience is a distinct advantage.
- A valid C Class Driver’s Licence, full Australian working rights, and a genuine willingness to relocate to Ballarat, Victoria.
- An unwavering commitment to safety, excellent teamwork and communication skills, and the initiative to work autonomously.
- A current Victorian Shot Firing ticket (‘Black Ticket’) and experience in production charging are highly desirable.
Benefits and Perks
This residential role is designed for long-term stability and personal well-being:
- Excellent remuneration of $57 – $62 per hour plus bonuses, with a highly desirable 7 days on, 7 days off roster (12-hour shifts, Wednesday to Tuesday).
- Live and work in Ballarat a major regional centre with all amenities enjoying true work-life balance without the need for FIFO.
- All uniforms supplied and laundered on site, along with ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
- A supportive, flexible team culture with access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
- The security and satisfaction of a permanent residential role with a company that values inclusion and fair treatment for all.
How to Apply
If you are an experienced Bogger Operator ready to build your future with us. Shortlisting is underway, and successful candidates will be contacted to proceed through our interview and pre-employment check process. Please note, only applicants with valid Australian working rights will be considered. We look forward to potentially welcoming you to our team in Ballarat.


