James joined Macmahon as a qualified electrician and spent his first few years underground learning the operation, building site experience and taking on increasing responsibility. In 2025, that progression led to his current Leading Hand role.
“Macmahon gave me the opportunities to take on more responsibility, which eventually led to the Leading Hand role. The support, training and mentoring have given me the confidence to take my career to the next level.”
Every shift starts with a handover from the opposite crew, working through the plan, any outstanding tasks and hazards to be aware of, and coordinating the next 12 hours. As Leading Hand, James is responsible for guiding the electrical team through the shift, making sure every task is completed correctly and safely.
For James, who has played team sports his whole life, the culture of underground feels familiar.
“I really enjoy the small unit we have and how we look after each other.”
He credits Macmahon’s investment in training and mentoring with helping him build the confidence to step into leadership, and says the job satisfaction comes from working through new challenges and coming out the other side with a win.
“Job satisfaction for me is learning, putting yourself through new scenarios, and coming out the other end with a win.”
James’s story reflects what Macmahon’s underground teams stand for: small, tight-knit crews, the right training behind them, and the trust to lead.
