What is Mining Engineer

 

Job description

A mining engineer ensures the safe and economically sound development of mines and other surface and underground operations. The role combines an understanding of the effects of these structures on their surrounding environment, technical knowledge and management skills.

Before a new site is developed, mining engineers assess its viability and assist with planning the mine’s structure. They also manage and oversee mining production processes.

There are opportunities in the UK in mining consultancy, minerals, tunnelling and quarrying but, due to the nature of the industry, mining engineering is an international career and the majority of opportunities are overseas.

Typical work activities

Work activities vary according to the nature of the mine or site, but tasks typically involve:

• liaising with engineers, geologists and other staff;
• overseeing staff activities, either in one site section or throughout an entire mine;
• ensuring that operations are functioning smoothly;
• ensuring the safety of mining equipment;
• monitoring activities underground;
• assessing mine equipment supplies;
• managing monthly budgets;
• keeping detailed records;
• learning new skills as required, such as drilling and blasting;
• overseeing the health and safety of the site, particularly in relation to issues such as ventilation;
• costing and scheduling supplies;
• assessing new mining sites;
• establishing extraction systems;
• planning for transition from surface to underground mining operations.

Additional activities may include:

• assessing the viability of new mining ventures;
• undertaking feasibility studies;
• modelling/designing potential mine sites;
• providing consultancy and advice on mining and mineral extraction projects;
• overseeing major construction projects;
• filling in disused mine shafts;
• reclaiming mine sites;
• working with specialist PC software to support planning programmes.