Mining Engineer

Roles and responsibilities

To qualify as a mining engineer:

Step 1
Complete any undergraduate bachelor’s course {Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Biomedical Science, Bachelor of Science or the Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours)} with a major in Engineering Science as your first degree.

Step 2
Complete the postgraduate Master of Professional Engineering to qualify as a mining engineer.

 Mining engineers:

• 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
• prepare the layout of the mine development and the procedure by which the minerals are to be mined
• prepare plans for mines, including tunnels and shafts for underground operations, and pits and haulage roads for open-cut operations, using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) packages
• 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
• prepare estimates on the cost of the operation and control expenditure when mines begin production
• oversee the construction of the mine and the installation of the plant machinery 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 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.

Source: myFuture