Overview

A mine engineer, or mining engineer, provides detailed mine planning and engineering to a mine operations site, typically for phosphorus, potash, or iron ore.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Develop and implement short range surface and underground mine plans
• Prepare detailed maps, cross sections, or other drawings from geologic, topographic, cost, production, and other data
• Provide drilling and blasting engineering along with engineering management and support for projects as assigned
• Provide production, maintenance, equipment, and unit costs
• Work closely with mining staff to conduct and monitor mining, blending and transport
• Survey land for mining operations
• Assist in the optimization of the mining process
• Determine cost estimates for the development of mining properties
• Identify and implement cost-saving measures
• Ensure that any contract complies with company and governmental policy
• Assist geologists with mapping geological disturbances and anomalies in affected mining rooms
• Maintain accurate records and maps
• Assist and cooperate with governmental inspections and corporate audits
• Uphold environmental health and safety policies

What education and training is required?

A bachelor’s degree in mining engineering, geomatics, geology, or civil engineering with some level of experience in surface mining, short range mine planning, drilling and blasting, geological modelling, and surveying is required.

To pursue a career as a Mine Engineer:

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, natural resources, industrial technology, advanced mathematics, physics, chemistry, and computer courses.

Typical Employers:

Mine engineers can work for natural resources, energy, or chemical companies or the government.

Future Job Market/Outlook

The future outlook for a mining engineer will be good over the next five years. 

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration Inc.
• American Institute of Mining, Metallurgical, and Petroleum Engineers
• International Mining & Minerals Association