Published on 1 August, 2023.
Interested in a MESO career but not sure how to get there? Continue reading for everything you need to know!
What is a Medical Emergency Services Officer (MESO)?
A Medical Emergency Services Officer or Emergency Services Offer is typically responsible for emergency response on industrial sites, but also firefighting, rescue operations, security and training. No day is the same and you have a plethora of industries to work in with the most common being mining, but opportunities can arise in maritime, power and energy, aviation, construction and more.
Becoming a MESO can be an excellent alternative to pursuing a career as a paramedic. Although the specific responsibilities may vary, both roles share similar skill sets and provide an opportunity to make a difference by providing emergency medical care when it’s needed most.
What position you hold can change from company to company. We were able to speak to Emergency Services Officer, Nathan Seidel on his experience in the position at Billabong Gold Mine, located in Western Australia. Billabong Gold Mine has a large medical centre, two ambulances and other response vehicles.
What are the tasks of a MESO?
The tasks assigned to you as a MESO/ESO will vary from site to site, depending on your qualifications and the size of the team you work with or manage.
Tasks may include, but aren’t limited to:
- Injury management, inclusive of paperwork, liaising with patients, physios, doctors and the human resources department.
- Undertaking random drug and alcohol testing.
- Providing medical clearances to potential employees and return-to-work employees.
- Administering flu vaccinations.
- Fever temperature checks.
- Responding to minor or major on-site injuries and providing medical care.
- Mental health assessments and recommendations.
- Responding to vehicle accidents.
How much does an MESO make?
If we’re talking mining, it’s no secret that Australia usually has attractive salaries. A MESO or ESO in the mines can earn from $100,000-$190,000, with salary being dependent on experience, overtime and any additional allowances too.
This position can sometimes have other titles, such as:
- Mine Site Medic
- Industrial Medic
- Underground Medic
- Mines Rescue Medic
- Emergency Response Coordinator
How do I become a MESO?
Wanting to learn more about how you can become a MESO? Click here to check out our blog which includes the qualifications and experience you need to get started.
Does this career path interest you? Australian Paramedical College is proud to provide educational pathways to becoming a MESO within a 12–18-month period!
If you’re wanting to get started as soon as possible, apply today.
