Underground mining jobs require various skills and training, including geologists, mining engineers, environmental engineers, machine operators, mine safety inspectors, mechanics, and carpenters. Geologists use data to test new mining sites, while mining engineers plan the mining operation. Environmental engineers ensure compliance with regulations. Machine operators, mine safety inspectors, mechanics, and carpenters work at mining sites. Specialized training is often required for these jobs.
The underground mining industry generally requires many types of employees with various skills and training. Due to the versatility of the industry, underground mining jobs are available to a wide variety of people. Underground mining jobs can include professional occupations such as geologists, mining engineers and environmental engineers; the majority of the industry is made up of mining and construction jobs such as machine operators, mine safety inspectors, mechanics and carpenters.
To determine if there really are resources for mining, a geologist often uses data to test new mining sites. Geologists travel to potential mining sites using seismic data and core samples to locate extraction sites that contain high-purity valuable minerals. To become a geologist in the mining industry, the minimum requirement is usually a bachelor’s degree in one of the physical sciences. Many mining industry geologists also complete programs in a specialized mining field.
Mining engineers are responsible for planning the mining operation. They work closely with drafters and technicians to develop the mine structure and determine the best design to facilitate extraction. Engineers on underground mining jobs may also be responsible for overseeing the project and resolving any issues that may arise with the structure. A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in engineering with an emphasis in coal mining or another specialty is typically required.
Environmental engineers can oversee mining projects to ensure they comply with federal and local regulations. They can also work as consultants during the design process to assist engineers in developing a mine that is environmentally safe in accordance with government regulations. These underground mining jobs are usually filled by people with a background in natural science or environmental engineering; they may also require additional ongoing training so that the engineer can stay current on the newest environmental regulations.
The majority of workers in underground mining jobs are employed at the mining sites. Underground mining operations involve many different types of machine operators. Drilling machine operators are normally responsible for drilling the holes that will be filled with explosives. After the explosives are detonated, loading machine operators clear the debris left with an electric shovel and load the debris onto a surface haul truck.
Some projects may use a continuous mining machine operator. These operators often control the mining machines remotely to facilitate safe and steady mining. Machine operators typically have a high school diploma, but it is not necessarily required. Those with two years of professional training tend to advance more quickly and may not need to serve as an assistant or apprentice for several years before gaining promotion.
Mine safety inspectors conduct work area checks to look for loose fittings, leaks of harmful chemicals, and adequate ventilation systems. If the mine fails to meet safety requirements, the inspector is usually responsible for closing the mine until conditions improve. Mining inspectors can start as operators and then advance after completing several training sessions on safety education and procedures.
Mechanics work to restore and maintain mining equipment, while carpenters tend to be responsible for building mine structures and some equipment. Given the unusual conditions of underground mining, carpenters and mechanics often need specialized training in addition to their professional trade courses. Most vocational schools will offer additional specialized training with their certificate programs.
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