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