Mining Geologists: what do they do?

Our second post on careers within the mining sector looks at the role of a Mining Geologist. Playing an important role throughout the entire life cycle of a mining project, mining geologists use their technical knowledge and project management skills to make sure mining operations are carried out in a safe, efficient and cost-effective manner.

A mining geologist applies the science of structure, composition, and the physical properties of the world we live in to mining. Their main responsibility is to ensure that minerals and other similar materials are extracted from mines and quarries in a way that results in maximum profit and involves minimal problems.

Before any mining project can begin however, the materials need to be located. Using tools such as aerial photographs, field maps, and geophysical surveys, a mining geologist determines where valuable materials are and estimates how many of those materials are in that location. They also determine the life span of the mining project and determine how profitable it is likely to be, by accessing the grade and structure of the materials.

Mining geologists also map the area where they believe valuable minerals are. They record and compile geological data so that the mining engineer has accurate details of the location, structure, and distribution of minerals in a certain location. Additionally, they must make computer models of the mine, quarry, or pit that they can share with the mining engineer. Together, the two find the best approach for establishing the work environment and extracting the valuable materials. These responsibilities make mining geologists indispensable, as without them, mining companies would not know where to dig, how deep to dig, or when to stop digging.

One of the most important aspects of a mining geologist's job is to provide advice on how to keep the mining environment safe. They do this by identifying dangers such as rock faults, ground water or conditions that could result in uncontrolled explosions. Workers lives and the mining company’s assets depend on the identification of these dangers.

As an entry-level mining engineer, your salary is likely to range between £21,000 and £27,000 per annum. However, with a few years’ experience this can increase to around £46,000 a year. Senior mining engineers with project management responsibilities can earn up to £70,000 and beyond.

If the sound of becoming a mining geologist appeals to you, or you simply want to know more about the types of jobs involved in the mining industry, have a look at the Acorn Global website for more.

Helen Lock