Mining and Geological Engineers
Additional Information
Duties
A typical mining and geological engineer's job is to:
- Create mines both above and below earth.
- Control the development of mines and tunnels.
- Transport materials from mines to processing plants in new ways.
- Reports for miners, engineers, and management should be prepared.
- Assess the efficiency of mining operations by keeping tabs on production.
- Solutions to land reclamation, pollution, and sustainability issues will be provided.
- The safe and ecologically friendly operation of mines must be ensured.
Mineral deposits are sought for by geological engineers, and potential locations are assessed by these experts. Once a location has been selected, they plan how to extract the metals or minerals in an ecologically and economically effective manner.
The majority of mining engineers specialize in a single resource or commodity, such as coal or gold. In order to maximize the yield from a given deposit, they plan and build mines and analyze various extraction methods.
Finding and evaluating ore deposits requires the cooperation of geologists and metallurgists. More than a few mining engineers are involved in the design, construction, and operation of new mining equipment or in the management of mineral-processing activities.
Workers' safety and adherence to federal and state requirements are the primary concerns of mining safety engineers, who use industry best practices and in-depth understanding of mine design to their work. Mines are inspected, air quality is monitored, and mining equipment is examined for potential risks.
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Education
Students who want to go into mining or geological engineering in college should take science and math courses in high school.
Engineering is a popular major for college students. A degree in civil or environmental engineering or geoscience is commonly accepted as a substitute for a degree in mining engineering or geological engineering. Geology, thermodynamics, and mine design and safety are frequently taught in mining engineering bachelor's degree programs. Typical geological engineering bachelor's degree programs include courses in geology, chemistry, and fluid mechanics." Laboratory and field activities are also part of both types of programs.
If you're looking for a job in mining and geological engineering, you may want to look into programs approved by professional organizations like ABET.
There are normally two-year programs in mining and geological engineering that cover a wide range of topics, including mineral resource development and mining laws. Graduates of several schools must submit a thesis paper in order to get their diplomas.
Qualities that are critical to success
Analytical abilities." Many aspects must be taken into account by mining and geological engineers when appraising new mine sites and developing infrastructure. Additionally, they must take into account the environmental impact of their work.
The ability to make good decisions. From worker safety to mining output, these engineers make decisions that have a significant impact. The capacity to foresee and respond to difficulties is essential.
Logic-based reasoning abilities. Engineers are tasked with organizing mining operations, mineral processing, and environmental remediation in a logical order.
The ability to do math. Analysis, design and troubleshooting in mining and geological engineering all rely on complex math concepts such as calculus.
Ability to work with issues. In the mining and geological engineering field, exploration, planning, and environmental reclamation are all essential. You must have the capacity to establish and work toward goals while overcoming obstacles along the way in order to successfully complete these assignments.
The ability to write. Engineers in the mining and geological industries are required to provide reports and directions for other personnel. As a result of this, they must be able to communicate their thoughts and intentions effectively in writing.
Registration, Certification, and Licensing
Entry-level mining and geological engineering jobs do not need a license. Later in one's career, one can earn a Professional Engineer (PE) license, which gives them greater authority and autonomy. Professional engineers refer to engineers who hold a license and are members of the engineering profession (PEs). It is possible for a PE to supervise the work of others, sign off on projects, and give services directly to the general public. The majority of states requires:
- A diploma from an engineering program that has been certified by ABET.
- Securing an engineering fundamental pass rate of at least 70%.
- A minimum of four years of relevant work experience.
- Professional Engineer (PE) test passing score.
A bachelor's degree is required to take the first FE test. Engineers who pass this test are referred to as "engineers in training" (EITs) or "engineer interns" (EIs). EITs and EIs can take the Principles and Practice of Engineering test after completing the work experience requirements.
Engineers in several states are required to maintain their licenses by completing continuing education courses. As long as the licensing criteria in the other states meet or surpass the first state's own requirements, most states will accept licenses from other states.
Pay
In May 2020, mining and geological engineers earned an average yearly salary of $93,800. There are two extremes of earnings in each given occupation: those earning more than the median and those earning less. One-tenth of the population made less than $57,040, while the other one-tenth made more than $156,270 per year.
Job Projections
It is expected that the employment of mining and geological engineers would expand by 4% between 2020 and 2030, which is lower than the average for all occupations.
