Endless opportunities.....for some - Anonymous employee Rio Tinto Employee Review

4.0
19 May 2016
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great culture (prior to Walsh-led 'Final Solution'). A leader in H&S without question and without peer. Things just got done (initially) - relatively streamlined bureaucracy compared with other organisations I've worked for. Excellent travel and re-location opportunities, but you really have to work hard to chase them and build your internal network - which I did, but that's hard for some people. Very good salaries for most (on eastern seaboard Aus). Have heard some parts of the globe RT is a bit behind its peers in remuneration

Cons

Staff cuts went far too far in the Final Solution (where all the 'thinkers' were let go), and most of the organisation's intellectual property destroyed for good. If you're a 'yes' man or woman right now, you'll do well. No longer a leader but a follower. Company has lost the ability to be a free-thinker, back to its Leigh Clifford-era conservatism. Once keen to push the envelope now wants to do the bare minimum. HR departments very poor. Several experiences of great internationally-renowned talent wanting to join the Group but HR incompetence saw them get cold feet. Salary benchmarking non-existent. Talent management program essentially a front for senior management to move their 'favourites' up the ladder quicker (saw evidence of managers rigging scores to keep the 'doers in the basement' as such doing their work for them). I loved my time at Rio Tinto, but looking back am very glad I left when I did. It's a completely different organisation now (I meet up regularly with current employees). I would still just recommend them, as riding the next wave could be exciting.....if you can wait that long.

Explore other reviews about Rio Tinto

5.0
18 Feb 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Benefits are fantastic, employee share program, inexpensive insurance options with generous HSA contributions ($3000 per year), ample opportunities for career growth for those willing to relocate (internationally sometimes)

Cons

Mining is cyclic, layoffs are always a looming threat, depending on role 50-60 hr work week is common

3.0
11 May 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Local environment is very friendly and laid back. Everyone is helpful. The benefit package is nice as well. We do get the option to purchase company shares, 100% company match up to 6% for 401k plus additional deposits.

Cons

Our company was recently purchased by Rio Tinto and their IT groups are very secular and specialized which makes it hard to communicate and get things resolved. I’ve also compared my salary to others with the same job title within manufacturing companies in my state and found my salary is way below the benchmark.

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