How to become a MINING ENGINEER

How to become a
MINING ENGINEER
Mining engineers plan and direct the engineering aspect of extracting
mineral resources from the earth.
Mining engineers may perform the following tasks:
•
conduct investigations of mineral deposits and undertake evaluations in
collaboration with geologists, other earth scientists and economists to
determine whether the mineral deposits can be mined profitably
•
determine the most suitable method of mining the minerals taking into
account factors such as the depth and characteristics of the deposit
and its surroundings
•
prepare plans for mines, including tunnels and shafts for underground
operations, and pits and haulage roads for open-cut operations, using
computer-aided design packages
•
prepare the layout of the mine development and the procedure by
which the minerals are to be mined
•
plan and coordinate the employment of mining staff and equipment with
regard to efficiency, safety and environmental conditions
•
talk to geologists and other engineers about the design, selection and
provision of machines, facilities and systems for mining, as well as
infrastructure such as access roads, water and power supplies
•
liaise and coordinate with the operations supervisor to make sure there
is proper implementation of the plans
•
operate computers to assist with calculations, prepare estimates on the
cost of the operation and control expenditure when mines come into
production
•
oversee the construction of the mine and the installation of the plant
and equipment
•
make sure that mining regulations are observed, including the proper
use and care of explosives, and the correct ventilation to allow the
removal of dust and gases
•
conduct research aimed at improving efficiency and safety in mines
•
establish first aid and emergency services facilities at the mines.
Mining engineers may work on site in remote areas. They often work for
international companies and may travel or work overseas.
Personal Requirements:
•
enjoy technical work
•
willing to adhere to safety requirements
•
able to identify, analyse and solve problems
•
good oral and written communication skills
•
aptitude for computing and design
•
practical and creative
•
able to work independently
•
able to accept responsibility
•
able to work as part of a team
•
able to think and act decisively.
Education and Training:
To become a mining engineer you usually have to study engineering at
university with a major in mining engineering. To get into these courses
you usually need to pass your QCE. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed
knowledge, in one or more of English, Chemistry, Mathematics B and
Physics are normally required. The various universities have different
prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external
study. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as
requirements may change.
Degree Courses:
Central Queensland University - Gladstone, Mackay and Rockhampton
Campuses or Distance Education:
•
Bachelor of Engineering, specialising in mining engineering, 4 years
full time or equivalent (Gladstone and Mackay Campuses offer first two
years only)
University of Queensland - St Lucia Campus:
•
Bachelor of Engineering (Mining), 4 years full time or equivalent
Additional Information:
Graduates may be eligible for membership of Engineers Australia. The
degree offered by the University of Queensland is also recognised by the
Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM).
Registration or licensing may be required. Contact the AusIMM (National
Office) for further information.
Graduates are permitted to sit for the Mine Manager’s Certificate and to
apply for registration as a Chartered Professional Engineer after three years
of approved industry experience.
Employment Opportunities:
Mining engineering degrees include elements from other disciplines such as
geology, metallurgy, commerce, economics and management. This means
that graduates are versatile and have the potential to advance rapidly within
the minerals and associated industries.
Most mining engineers are employed by mining companies, mining
contractors, consultants and government departments. They may also work
for companies that manufacture and supply mining machinery or explosives
to the mining industry. Mining engineers with wide experience may set
themselves up as consulting engineers.
Employment may also be found in mine supervision and management, on
site or in head office planning and services. It is a small occupation with
good employment prospects. However, mining engineers sometimes need
to move interstate to find employment.
Money:
Graduate Mining Engineer: $55,000 – $95,000+
Mining Engineer: $85,000 – $130,000+
Senior Mining Engineer: $110,000 – $145,000+
Project Engineer: $75,000 – $125,000
For further information:
Queensland Resources Council
www.miningcareers.com
Engineers Australia (Qld Division)
www.qld.engineersaustralia.org.au
Source: The Job Guide