Build your future with Woodside Energy
For more than 25 years, Programmed and Woodside Energy have worked together to create real training and employment pathways for local people in Karratha.
Apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities
Woodside Energy offers apprenticeship and traineeship pathways that lead to nationally recognised qualifications and hands-on experience at Woodside's world-class operating facilities.
Applications for these programs are managed by Programmed Training Services and typically open mid-year, with successful candidates starting the following year. Available disciplines may vary each year.
- Get paid to train while building practical skills.
- Gain experience in a major energy workplace.
- Work with a training provider committed to safety and career development.
Potential pathways
Current application links and pathway fact sheets for Woodside Energy apprenticeship and traineeship programs in Karratha.
Woodside career pathways flyerGeneral Service Operator Traineeship
Training pathwayIndigenous IT Desktop Support Traineeship
Training pathwayMechanical Fitter Apprenticeship
Trade pathwayElectrical Instrumentation Apprenticeship
Trade pathwayPre-Pathways Traineeship
Entry pathwayLaboratory Technician Traineeship
Technical pathwayProcess Operator Traineeship
Operations pathwayBusiness Administration Traineeship
Business pathwayWarehouse and Logistics Traineeship
Supply pathwayWharf Traineeship
Operations pathway
Working at Woodside Energy
Woodside Energy is a proudly Australian-founded global energy company, built on a spirit of innovation, determination and world-class expertise.
In Karratha, Woodside operates major energy facilities including the North West Shelf Project, the Karratha Gas Plant and Pluto LNG. These sites play a critical role in producing and exporting LNG to global markets, as well as supplying domestic gas across Western Australia.
Woodside is committed to building a diverse, high-performing workforce by attracting, developing and retaining local talent.
Working for Programmed
Programmed is one of Australia's leading Group Training Organisations, supporting apprentices and trainees to build real skills, gain recognised qualifications and succeed in the workplace.
We have proudly worked alongside Woodside Energy for more than 25 years, supporting their long-term commitment to local training, diversity and workforce development in Karratha.
As your legal employer, Programmed is with you every step of the way, with a dedicated Training Coordinator providing regular check-ins, mentoring and support.
Work experience in Karratha
Woodside Energy's Work Experience Program gives high school students in the City of Karratha a chance to go behind the gate and explore real careers in the energy industry.
This section can be updated each intake with eligibility, timing and application details.
- Designed for local students in the City of Karratha.
- Introduces real career pathways in the energy industry.
- Connects students with practical workplace exposure.
See what the pathway can look like
Inclusion and diversity
Programmed and Woodside are equal opportunity employers. We welcome and encourage women and men, people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent and people from diverse backgrounds to apply.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about the Woodside Energy Apprenticeship and Traineeship Program.
What kind of roles are available?
Each year, we offer a variety of apprenticeships and traineeships based in Karratha, WA. The roles available can change from year to year depending on Woodside's operational needs, but may include:
- Mechanical Fitting Apprenticeships
- Electrical Instrumentation Apprenticeships
- Laboratory Traineeships
- Indigenous Business Traineeships
- Indigenous Warehousing and Logistics Traineeships
- Indigenous Wharf Traineeships
- Indigenous Pre-Pathways Traineeships
- Indigenous School Based Traineeships
You will earn while you learn, gain valuable qualifications, and be part of a supportive team that wants to see you succeed.
How do I apply?
All applications need to be submitted online through the Programmed website.
Visit programmed.com.au/woodside, read through the information about the program and the roles available, then click Apply Now and follow the steps to complete your application.
What is the aptitude test, and how do I prepare for it?
The aptitude test is a short, computer-based assessment that helps us understand your current skills. You are not expected to study beforehand - just give it your best shot.
It looks at word knowledge and reading, basic maths and number patterns, mechanical and spatial reasoning, and logical and abstract thinking. You will complete this test in person under supervision.
To get a feel for it, try a free demo test here: campaign.testgrid.com/demotesting
How do I prepare for the interview?
The interview is your opportunity to show us who you are and why you are interested in joining the team. We are not expecting perfect answers, but we do expect you to come prepared and willing to talk about your experience, interests, and goals.
We will chat about your background, interests, school or work experience, why you are interested in the program, what you know about Woodside and the role, and how you have worked with others, faced challenges, and stayed motivated.
Tip: Think of real examples from part-time work, sport, school, or volunteering where you have worked in a team, solved a problem, or shown initiative.
What happens at the Assessment Centre?
The Assessment Centre is a group session where you will meet others applying and participate in activities and discussions.
We want to see how you work in a team, how you solve problems, and how you listen, communicate, and support others. It is not about being the loudest or taking over - it is about showing respect, teamwork, and a willingness to learn.
You will also get the chance to meet the Programmed and Woodside teams and ask any questions you may have.
I do not live in Karratha - can I still apply?
Yes. While preference is given to local applicants, we also consider people who have a connection to the Pilbara through family, community or previous time living here, or who are willing to relocate to Karratha at their own expense.
If this applies to you, make sure you mention it in your application.
Is housing provided?
Housing is not provided directly, but every successful applicant will receive a housing allowance.
This allowance helps cover the cost of living locally and is paid on top of your wages. Whether you already live in Karratha or plan to move here, the housing allowance is there to support you. Full details will be explained during the interview process.
How much will I be paid?
You will be paid a competitive wage that is above the relevant Award rates, so you will earn more than the base rates set by the government for apprenticeships and traineeships.
On top of your base pay, you will also receive location allowances to help with the cost of living in Karratha, superannuation and leave entitlements. Exact pay rates vary depending on the role and your age, but we will go through the details during the interview.
What is involved in the due diligence checks?
Before offering you a position, we need to complete a few important checks:
- Pre-employment medical, including drug and alcohol testing
- Reference checks with past teachers, employers, or other referees
- National police clearance
These checks help make sure the workplace is safe and supportive for everyone. If you are shortlisted, we will guide you through each step.
When do the jobs start?
Most apprenticeships and traineeships kick off in the early part of the year, around January or February. This will be confirmed with you at the interview.
Are these FIFO positions?
No. These are residential positions. That means you will be living in Karratha and going home every day, rather than working a Fly-In Fly-Out roster.
Will I be guaranteed a job once I finish the apprenticeship or traineeship?
There is no automatic job guarantee after you complete your program. However, many past apprentices and trainees have gone on to full-time roles with Woodside or other leading companies in the industry.
Success comes down to your performance, attitude and commitment, and what opportunities are available at the time. We will support you to build strong foundations for a great career wherever it takes you.
Got a question or waiting for an update?
Due to the high number of applications we receive, we are unable to provide individual updates throughout the process. You will be contacted by email at each key stage, whether you are progressing or not, so keep an eye on your inbox.
If you have a question about the program or application process, email woodside@programmed.com.au. We will do our best to respond within two business days.
The Karratha office is not able to assist with application queries in person or over the phone.
Ready to take the next step?
Review the current Woodside apprenticeship and traineeship pathways, then apply through the relevant listing.