At Schlam, our team’s experiences and stories drive the heart of our culture. Our dedicated FIFO (Fly-In, Fly-Out) employee, James, who has been with us for almost three years, embodies the work-life balance, flexibility, and sense of adventure that so many in mining look for – and that Schlam is proud to offer.
Discovering Work-Life Balance at Schlam
Like many in the mining industry, James was initially drawn to Schlam by the promise of work-life balance. Unlike traditional rosters that lock employees into rigid cycles, Schlam offers James the chance to choose his own swings as a Field Service Mechanic.
“The freedom to choose however long I wish to work is great,” he shares. “The only catch is that I need to spend more time up in the Pilbara than I do at home, but that works out well for me.”
For James, the flexibility Schlam offers is invaluable. Having the freedom to customise his work schedule gives him the opportunity to balance both personal life and professional growth.
Excellent Communication and Competitive Pay
Beyond flexibility, James also highlights the strong communication within Schlam. Regular updates and open channels of communication keep him connected to the broader team, which he appreciates. Schlam’s commitment to maintaining an open dialogue across departments ensures that employees in even the most remote locations feel valued and heard.
“If you’re worried about the pay, the pay is very good as well,” James says. The competitive pay is a common draw for many in the industry, but at Schlam, it comes with the added value of a supportive, flexible environment that caters to individual needs.
Life on the Move: The Beauty of Ad Hoc Work
James’ role as a Field Service Mechanic is ad hoc, meaning he isn’t assigned to any one site on a fixed schedule. Instead, he travels from site to site, filling in wherever he’s needed. This unique role provides him with a variety of environments across Western Australia.
“I bounce from site to site through the week,” he explains. “Whether it’s a week here or two weeks at another site, it’s good having the flexibility and freedom to move around as I wish.”
This type of setup lets James experience new challenges and meet different people on a regular basis. It’s ideal for those who thrive on change and enjoy exploring various facets of the mining industry.
The Adventure of Working in the Pilbara
The Pilbara region is known for its rugged beauty and vast, open landscapes. For James, it’s become a second home. With each swing, he’s able to take in the sights and sounds of one of Australia’s most iconic regions.
“It’s a wonderful experience,” he says. “You get to meet awesome people and see the Pilbara as well. There are some beautiful sights up there; it’s a beautiful country.”
The Realities of FIFO: Sacrifices and Rewards
James is candid about the sacrifices that come with a FIFO lifestyle. Missing out on birthdays, family events, and other significant moments is part of the package for those working remotely. But he’s quick to note that, for him, the trade-off is well worth it.
“Anyone considering FIFO, you just got to remember that you are going to miss birthdays and family events, but it’s a sacrifice that we make. At the end of the day, for me, it is worth it.”
Join Our Team at Schlam
At Schlam, we’re committed to providing a supportive environment where each team member has the freedom to choose their path, enjoy flexibility, and experience the rich rewards of a FIFO lifestyle.
If you’re considering a career in mining and want the chance to build a work-life balance that fits your goals, Schlam might be the place for you. Reach out to learn more about our job vacancies at www.schlam.com
