Mining engineer: what you need to know about this profession?

2024 Author: Howard Calhoun | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 10:16

Mining engineer is a speci alty, the relevance of which is increasing every day. The reason for this is the progress that has engulfed the entire modern world. After all, if half a century ago, the creation of a telephone required the presence of only 9 types of minerals, then its current version has increased this threshold to 55 items.

And a similar trend is observed in all branches of modern industry. And in order to provide them with the necessary raw materials, mining companies annually increase their staff several times. Therefore, a good mining engineer can safely count on a decent job.

But how to become a good specialist? Where exactly to study this profession? And then how to get a promising place? We'll talk about all this.

What is a mining engineer?

The main task of a mining engineer is the design and maintenance of mining equipment. At the same time, it can work not only with solid materials, but also with oil or natural gas. It all depends on his education andthe area in which the company operates.

It should also be noted that Mining Engineer is a management position. Even if he does not stand at the very top of the hierarchy, he always has several subordinates. For example, it can be locksmiths, welders, electricians, and so on.

What should this specialist do?

So, a complete list of all the duties of this worker contains a job description developed at a particular enterprise. A mining engineer, when applying for a job, must read it without fail. After all, this is the only way to find out everything for sure and avoid possible misunderstandings with the management in the future.

Here is a small list of the duties that a mining engineer can be charged with:

• Design of equipment designed for the search, extraction and transportation of natural minerals.
• Creation of ventilation, plumbing and power supply systems in mines and quarries.
• Installation of oil and gas wells and drilling rigs.
• Creation of various kinds of devices designed to improve the operation of the mining enterprise.
• Maintain various kinds of documentation and drawings.
• Check mechanisms and systems for faults, and if necessary, repair them.
• Certification of equipment, in accordance with the established norms and standards of the Russian Federation.

Where to get an education?

Mining engineer is a speci alty that requires higher education. Therefore, it will be necessary to find a university capable of teaching a person all the necessary skills and abilities.

In general, the following directions are suitable:

• oil and gas business;
• physical processes in the mining industry;
• geological exploration technology;
• open pit mining;
• mine and underground construction.

The training itself implies a deep study of geology and mathematical analysis. In addition, you will have to learn all the norms and standards used to create drawings and plans. And, of course, we will have to develop a good legislative framework in order to clearly understand where it is possible to mine ore, and where it is strictly forbidden to do so.

Personal qualities of a specialist

In addition to the appropriate education, an important factor is the personal qualities of the future employee. Quite often, employers test candidates for this position through interviews and a trial period. What do they want to see?

So, the profession of a mining engineer is, first of all, a great responsibility. Any oversight can cost the company a round sum. In addition, the safety of miners depends on the quality of work of this employee. For example, improperly designed ventilation can cost them their lives.

Also, a mining engineer must be prepared for the fact that he will have to work overtime. The reason for this may be the narrow deadlines for the delivery of the project or unforeseendamage that needs to be fixed quickly. Therefore, he must have a strong nervous system, endurance and, most importantly, love his job.

Working as a mining engineer

After graduation, any engineer with a diploma can begin to fulfill his duties. And at this moment, young professionals have a question: “Where is the best place to look for a job?”

First of all, you should understand one important point: most prestigious companies require not only a diploma confirming education, they also need work experience of at least three years. Naturally, you can try your luck, because, as they say, an attempt is not torture, but you should not harbor unnecessary illusions.

Therefore, for a young specialist, the best solution would be employment in a small company that is just gaining momentum in the mining business. Firstly, it is much easier to get here, and secondly, this is an ideal way to get the necessary experience. And there, who knows, maybe in a few years the young company will get stronger, and then you won’t even have to change jobs.

Pros and cons of work

Let's start with the positive. A mining engineer is a prestigious position, which - at least - pleases pride. In addition, these specialists receive a fairly good salary, which motivates for further work. Also, this position cannot be called dirty or dusty, and a few subordinates make life much easier.

Among the minuses is the high competition, especially in the oil industry. Alsonot everyone likes the fact that quite often they have to go on business trips to distant objects.