Mining Engineers: what do they do?

Over the past 12 months, you will probably have heard in the news about the 'boom' in the mining industry, especially in Australia. There is a buzz around the topic, and for good reason: with the current global recession, any industry showing such an increase in profits and jobs is a valuable commodity.  

All this is fantastic news obviously, but if you've been hearing these stories and are interested in moving into the mining sector, you may be clueless as to what the job actually involves. There's more to mining than one type of career however, so over several blog posts we will highlight different jobs that could lead you into your ideal career. First up: mining engineers.

A mining engineer ensures the safe and economically sound development of mines and other underground operations. The role combines an understanding of the effects of these structures on their surrounding environment, technical knowledge and management skills, and the person carrying out this role often has a background in geology, as well as civil, mechanical and electrical engineering.

Mining engineers are involved at all stages of a project and are expected to supervise all phases of mining and take responsibility for the management of it. Before a new site is developed, they assess its viability and assist with planning the mine’s structure. They are also involved in the final closure and rehabilitation process of the mine site.

Mining engineers work with geological and metallurgical engineers to find and approve new ore deposits. They also develop new equipment or processes for mining and try to improve working conditions.

There are opportunities in the UK in this career path, but due to the nature of the industry, mining engineering is an international career and the majority of opportunities are overseas.

Starting salaries for mining engineers vary between £20,000 and £25,000, but with five years' experience, salaries can increase to around £45,000 plus.

Salaries at senior level (e.g. after 10-15 years in the role) range between £50,000 and £65,000. Moving abroad to work brings a further increase in salary, with added benefits such as pension schemes, flights and visas.

Hours of work tend to be long, particularly if you are based overseas. Mining engineers working overseas are likely to be on site for up to three months, followed by a period of two weeks' leave, which they can spend elsewhere.

Positives
- Plenty of job opportunities

- Variety of tasks and areas to choose from: no two days are the same 
- Excellent benefits, such as housing and visas provided, as well as good pension schemes 
- fantastic salaries 

- Chance to move to an exciting new location

- There's a strong sense of community and bonding given close working conditions.

- There are long periods off, creating opportunities to pursue other interests.

- There are opportunities for training and growth depending on the field of expertise.

Negatives
- There are safety risks involved, especially working underground 
- The hours can be long; 12 hour shifts are normal 

- Working overseas in this role may lead to periods of personal isolation. However, it also offers exposure to a variety of different cultures and communities, which can be a rewarding experience

- No long-term job security. When it's over, it's over.

If the idea of working in the mining industry appeals to you, or you are a mining engineer looking for a new challenge, check out the Acorn Global website for some fantastic job opportunities.

Helen Lock