The three-year contract is for the provision of ancillary and light mobile equipment.

The equipment will support maintenance activities across Rio's Pilbara iron ore mines and coastal operations and includes access platforms, telehandlers, lighting towers and generators. 

Onsite is established in the Pilbara and will provide on the ground support through its offices in Karratha, Tom Price, Newman and Port Hedland, as well as its office in Perth.

"Onsite is committed to employing local people and will provide ongoing training and development for their Pilbara-based employees," Rio Tinto Iron Ore managing director supply chain services Ivan Vella said.

"Rio Tinto's procurement practices, and those of our contractors, play a significant role in the creation of sustainable and resilient communities, including job opportunities for local people, which ultimately benefits the communities where we operate."

Onsite MD Mike Foureur said the company planned to increase local employment, particularly for service technicians based out of Newman and Tom Price, to service the contract.

"Our relationship with Rio Tinto is long-standing and we are excited to build on this foundation, through a collaborative and cohesive partnership approach."

"We will work closely with Rio Tinto to align, commit and grow local content and indigenous participation through partnering and supplier opportunities within the Pilbara region."