• Miner Job Description

    A miner is a person who works in a mine, a hole in the ground for excavating minerals. Miners operate and maintain equipment used for excavating, loading and transporting minerals or rocks to the mine surface.

    A miner should be well organized, responsible, disciplined, safety-couscous, and able to follow instructions, and work in cramped spaces. They should have physical fitness and the ability to remain calm in difficult situations.

    Pursue a career in mining if you enjoy practical and manual activities, and are interested in mining.
  • What does a Miner do?

    Miners may do some or all of the following:

    • operate mining machinery
    • dig tunnels into the earth, construct corridors and install roof supports
    • extract minerals by drilling or by blasting
    • load and transport minerals or rocks to the mine surface
    • ensure the safety of mines by performing safety tests such as checking mines for dangerous gases and safe roof support
    • supervise and coordinate the works of miner trainees
  • Where does a Miner work?
  • Working Conditions

    Miners work on shifts including nights and weekends. Mining work may be physically strenuous and dangerous, as miners work in harsh conditions and with heavy machinery and explosives.

    Miners may work underground in hot, dark, humid and noisy conditions, or in surface mines in all weather conditions. They may travel for work, and be away from home for weeks or months at a time, as mines are usually located in remote areas.

  • What is Required to Become a Miner?

    There are no standard requirements to become a miner, as skills are learned on the job by helping experienced miners. However, employers will prefer to hire candidates with driver’s license and post secondary school training in mining studies, mining technology or a similar discipline.

    Many employers have zero tolerance policy on drugs and alcohol, and thus employees may be subjected to random drug testing from time to time.

  • Modules
  • Specializations
  • Knowledge, Skills and Attributes

    Miners need to have:

    • patience
    • adaptability
    • cautiousness
    • self motivation
    • alertness and quick reflexes
    • physical stamina and strength
    • mechanical aptitude
    • manual dexterity
    • good health
    • good eyesight
    • good listening and communication skills
    • analytical and problem solving skills
    • heavy machinery skills
    • the ability to work well under pressure
    • the ability to work in confined spaces
    • the ability to work in a team
    • the ability to follow instructions
    • knowledge of mining methods
    • knowledge of how to manage explosives
    • knowledge of health and safety regulations for working in mines

References

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Alternative Careers
  • Construction Laborer
  • Carpenter
  • Plumber
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