Watch you career set sail as an apprentice at the Port of Mackay
North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) is offering young people and jobseekers the chance to kickstart a trade career by the water, with applications now open for its 2026 apprenticeship program.
Based at the Port of Mackay, successful applicants will earn while they learn by the waterfront, gaining valuable hands-on experience, nationally recognised qualifications and direct employment as part of NQBP’s maintenance team.
NQBP General Manager People, Safety, Environment and Sustainability Carissa Mansfield said the program is part of developing regional talent and building a strong, skilled workforce.
“We’re proud to offer trade pathways that not only launch individual careers but also support our regional workforce and local economy,” Ms Mansfield said.
“Apprentices will work as part of a close-knit team on real-world infrastructure that keeps essential trade moving and supports Queensland communities.”
More than half of Queensland’s trade, valued at over $53 billion annually, passes through NQBP’s ports of Mackay, Hay Point, Abbot Point and Weipa.
“Ports are critical to the success of our mining, agriculture and energy sectors,” Ms Mansfield added.
“By developing local talent, we’re investing in the future capability of the industry and our region.”
Four apprenticeship positions are available in the 2026 intake:
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Two Parks and Gardens (horticulture)
Apprentices will join experienced teams focused on maintaining vital port infrastructure and community spaces, while benefiting from strong mentoring, real-world learning and additional training opportunities.
Employment conditions include a nine-day fortnight, paid study leave, 12.75% employer-paid superannuation, and access to health and wellness initiatives such as Fitness Passport and on-site amenities. Interested applicants can also meet the NQBP team in person at the Mackay Careers Expo on Thursday 7 August at the Mackay Showgrounds.
Applications close 6pm Sunday 17 August 2025. Find out more via NQBP's Apprenticeship Program page.
Image for download
Image | NQBP's current Parks and Gardens apprentices Seumus, Zoey and Amber encourage people to apply for the 2026 Apprenticeship intake at the Port of Mackay.
Related Articles
-
Port operations 27 Jul 2023Port partners put through paces with world-class training
World-class simulation training is helping North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) marine pilots stay at the top of their game more than 950 kilometres from their home ports.
-
Port operations 28 Mar 2018Port of Weipa maintenance dredging
NORTH Queensland Bulk Ports will soon begin maintenance dredging at the Port of Weipa.
-
Capital works 25 Feb 2021Local contractor wins Mt Bassett water reservoir demolition job
More local job support | Mackay-based company Razor Demolition and Asbestos Removal will demolish the disused Mt Bassett water reservoir, set to start next week.