Applying for your first full-time role can feel like a mystery: what do recruiters really look for in candidates, and how do school leavers stand out with little experience? That’s why we’ve gone behind the scenes with Qube to uncover exactly what it takes to land a spot in their sought-after Cadet Program.
From insider recruiter tips and real success stories to details on pay, training, and career growth, this guide reveals how Qube helps school leavers kick-start a long-term, rewarding career.
So, What Exactly is a Qube Cadetship?
If you’ve just finished school (or are about to), Qube’s Cadet Program is your fast-track ticket into the world of logistics and transport!
Across your two years, you’ll get everything you need to hit the ground running: hands-on training, a buddy to show you the ropes, and your own Qube mentor to cheer you on!
Cadet roles vary within Qube and allow cadets to explore career opportunities across areas such as Logistics, Transport, IT, HR, Safety and Finance, plus more!
Oh, and did we mention it’s paid? From 1 July 2025, cadets earn:
- Year 1 of the program – $65,270 (including super)
- Year 2 of the program – $72,450 (including super)
Your Career Path: Where a Qube Cadetship Can Take You
Qube’s ultimate goal? Turning cadets into long-term Qube legends! By the end of your program, your manager will work with you to find your next exciting step within the company.
When Qube cadets are nearing the end of their cadetship, their manager will start to discuss the cadet’s next career opportunity within Qube. 
Cadet Life, Straight from the Source
Don’t just take our word for it – meet a few Qube cadets who’ve been there, done that, and absolutely smashed it!
Ashley Lewis commenced on the program in November 2023 as a People and Culture Support Cadet. She has recently been promoted early into her new permanent role as a People and Culture Business Partner. Ashley says:
“(My) experience as a cadet was incredibly rewarding – it has taught me valuable skills and helped me build strong connections with others in the company. I’m especially grateful for the support and guidance of my team and those around me who always encouraged me and pushed me out of my comfort zone.
“I’ve grown both personally and professionally, and I’m proud of everything I’ve accomplished. Now that I’m finished, I’m looking forward to taking on new challenges, continuing to learn, and applying what I’ve gained to make a meaningful impact in my future positions!”
– Ashley Lewis, People and Culture Business Partner, Sydney Head Office
New starter, Sarina Campbell, commenced on the 2025 Cadet Program in May. Here’s what she had to say about her time on the program so far:
“I was so nervous to start with Qube in a role completely out of my comfort zone and in an industry that I have no experience in.
“The Cadet Program has taught me that it’s never too late to start something new. My trainers have welcomed me and guided me through all stages so far with patience. I am looking forward to a long career with Qube and I wouldn’t have been able to do it without the Cadet Program”
– Sarina Campbell, Container Surveyor Cadet, Port of Brisbane.
Want to learn more about female mentorship and empowerment at Qube? Check out Qube’s guide to re-think what you know about women in the logistics industry.
What Certifications Can Qube Cadets Complete?
Want to boost your skills while you work? You can study towards nationally recognised certificates during your cadetship – meaning you’ll finish with hands-on experience and official qualifications.
There are several certificates available through Qube’s training partners, including:
- Cert III in Business
- Cert IV in Business
- Cert III in Supply Chain Operations
- Cert III in Supply Chain Operations (specialising in Warehousing)
- Cert III in Supply Chain Operations (specialising in Logistics)
- Cert III in Information Technology
- Cert IV in Human Resources
There is also the opportunity for cadets to pursue other Qube-approved certifications, depending on their role, location, and Qube’s business needs.
How to Nail Your Qube Cadetship Application (and Stand Out!)
Nervous about applying? Don’t stress. Qube knows this might be your very first job. That’s why their recruiters shared their top insider tips to help you shine from the get-go! Qube is on the lookout for cadets who are:
- Enthusiastic and motivated individuals eager to learn and grow.
- Strong communicators with problem-solving skills.
- Team players with a can-do attitude.
Here are some top tips to ensure your application stands out, even if you don’t have a lot of work experience:
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Do Your Homework – Know the Company
“We can tell within two sentences if someone’s copied and pasted the same application to 10 different places.” – Graduate & Cadet Recruiter, Construction Industry
- Research the company’s values, culture, recent projects, and why their program exists.
- Mention specific things you like – e.g. “I’m excited by your rotation through three departments in the first year,” not just “I want to work for a leading company.”
- Recruiters love to see that you’ve gone beyond the website home page – e.g. looked at social media, news articles, or employee stories.
Why it matters: It shows you’re serious and not just “spraying and praying” applications.
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Nail the Basics – First Impressions Count!
“You’d be surprised how many applications we bin for spelling errors or messy formatting.” – Recruitment Officer, State Government Cadet Program
- Spell–check everything.
- Use a simple, professional format (no fancy fonts, no bright colours).
- Make sure your email address is appropriate (e.g. not “partygirl98@…”).
- Name your documents clearly: FirstnameLastname_Resume.pdf.
Why it matters: Professional presentation shows maturity and attention to detail – both highly valued in school leavers.
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Show Your Potential, Not Just Experience
“We don’t expect a huge CV – we’re looking for attitude, initiative and willingness to learn.” – Talent Acquisition Lead, Engineering Firm
- Highlight school leadership, volunteering, sport, part–time jobs, or extracurricular activities.
- Use STAR examples (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to demonstrate skills like teamwork, problem–solving, or time management.
- Recruiters love real examples – even babysitting, tutoring younger students, or running a club can show responsibility.
Why it matters: School leavers often underestimate the value of non–work experience. Recruiters don’t.
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Make Your Cover Letter Personal & Enthusiastic
“If your cover letter sounds like ChatGPT wrote it, we’ll move on. If it sounds like you, we’ll take notice.” – HR Manager, Property & Construction
- Keep it short (max 1 page), but use your voice – polite, professional, but authentic.
- Say why this cadetship genuinely excites you.
- Avoid clichés like “I am a hard–working team player” without backing them up.
Why it matters: Recruiters read dozens of letters daily. A personal, thoughtful one stands out.
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Apply Early – and Be Responsive
“The best candidates get snapped up early. If we email you and don’t hear back for a week, that’s a red flag.” – Graduate Recruitment Coordinator, Top 50 Employer
- Don’t leave it until the last day to submit. Early applications can sometimes be fast–tracked.
- Check your emails regularly (including spam/junk folders).
- Respond quickly and professionally to any communication – recruiters often run tight timelines.
Why it matters: Reliability is a huge factor when hiring young candidates.
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Practice for Online Testing & Interviews
“So many good candidates lose confidence at the testing or interview stage because they didn’t prepare.” – Recruitment Consultant, National Traineeship Program
- Many cadetships use online assessments (numerical, verbal reasoning, or situational judgment). You can practice free examples online to get comfortable.
- Prepare for behavioural interview questions (e.g. “Tell me about a time you worked in a team”) using STAR examples.
- Do a mock interview with a teacher, family member, or friend.
Why it matters: Recruiters look for potential and communication skills – not perfection.
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Show Maturity and Professionalism Throughout
“We’re assessing every interaction – emails, phone calls, how you show up. Be courteous and prepared.” – HR Advisor, Local Council
- Answer phone calls professionally, not “Yeah, what?”
- If you can’t make an interview time, communicate clearly and early.
- Dress appropriately for interviews, even online.
Why it matters: These “small” things leave a big impression – especially when you’re a school leaver.
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Ask Thoughtful Questions at the End
“When candidates ask good questions, it shows genuine engagement.” – Recruitment Manager, Banking & Finance Cadet Program
Examples:
- “What do your most successful cadets have in common?”
- “What opportunities for development are available in the first year?”
- “What’s the culture like for someone starting out?”
Why it matters: It flips the dynamic and shows you’re thinking long-term.
Quick Recap: Recruiters’ Top 3 Priorities for School Leavers
Think you’re ready to hit ‘apply’ for your Qube cadetship? Let’s recap on Qube recruiters’ top priorities when searching for the next generation of cadets:
- Genuine motivation for the role and company.
- Strong communication skills and professionalism.
- Attitude and potential – willingness to learn matters more than a long CV.
Think you’ve got what it takes? The countdown’s on! Applications for Qube’s Cadet Program open in early 2026 – keep an eye out for available roles and be first in line to apply.
