The mining industry has been around since ancient times, and it continues to be one of the most important industries today that contribute to the economy.
There are many different types of mines, such as coal mines, gold mines, copper mines, iron ore mines, etc.
To find the right type of mine that you would like to be involved in, you should consider what kind of mineral you want to extract from the ground. For example, if you want to extract gold, then you would look into gold mining. If you want to extract oil, then you would look at oil mining.
With that being said, the mining sector is broad and has various career opportunities. We will be exploring the different opportunities in mining and where to get mining jobs.
What Does a Miner Do
Mining involves digging for valuable minerals underground and bringing them to the surface. To improve their mining capabilities, miners may also be involved in the design and implementation of underground tunnels and transportation systems.
Mining duties may vary depending on the site but here are the most common duties:
- Underground mining of ore, coal, and rocks
- Create welcoming entryways for transportation to and from the mines.
- Use explosives to shatter large groups of ore and rocks.
- Drive underground mining equipment to transport resources from one location to another.
How To Get a Mining Job
There are certain things that you will have to do and follow to attain a job in mining. Firstly, just like any other field, you will have to search for any open positions in mining through the different online career portals.
Open positions may be listed on employers’ websites. Do your research on the companies that employ miners and keep an eye on their website for updates to see if they’re hiring.
Networking is very important in the mining industry. Engaging with professionals in mining might be what you need to do to get into the profession. Use your contacts wisely, you might connect with some of the industry leaders and hiring managers through LinkedIn.
While waiting to attain a mining job, u might use the time to gain experience in similar roles such as construction and truck driving.
While at it, make sure that your CV is updated and that it highlights your skills, making sure that they match the required skills in mining.
Do expect to go through medical assessments as most mining companies require their candidates to pass a medical exam.
This is because mining jobs frequently involve heavy machinery, harsh conditions, and physical labour. You should expect to take a medical exam regardless of the job you’re applying for.
A basic physical examination, which may include movements such as sit-ups, push-ups, and lifting heavy objects, is usually included in the testing. The medical examination may also include a drug and alcohol test as the majority of the mines have strict drug and alcohol policies.
Roles in Mining
A career as a miner can be rewarding and lucrative. You just need to learn more about the career opportunities within the mining industry.
Mining involves digging for valuable minerals underground. It requires physical strength, endurance, and stamina. However, mines in the resource extraction phase have a lot of technical roles while the mining exploration sector has a lot of entry-level positions that do not require that much experience, these are roles such as machine operator, driller offsider, concreter, and field assistant.
Other roles in mining are:
1. Geologist
Geologists study rocks and other materials to determine what kinds of minerals are present and how much of them are there. They also use geologic methods to predict where new mineral deposits might occur.
A geologist must be able to read maps, take measurements, and use tools such as drills and hammers to dig into the ground.
2. Mine Manager
As a mine manager, you will oversee the operations of a mine, making sure everything runs smoothly. You will work with miners, engineers, and other professionals to ensure safety and productivity.
The role of a mining manager is one of the most physically demanding jobs in the world, he or she must be able to work long hours under extreme conditions.
3. Underground Construction Worker
An underground construction worker works at depths ranging from several hundred feet to thousands of feet below ground level. They must wear special equipment to protect themselves from dangerous gases and other hazards.
The job of an underground construction worker is very physically demanding. Workers are expected to dig deep into the ground to find precious metals such as gold, silver, copper, zinc, lead, and iron ore. They use heavy machinery to break apart rocks and move them around. They work long hours under extreme temperatures and conditions.
4. Safety Engineer
Underground mining jobs require workers to work in confined spaces with limited visibility. This makes them susceptible to injury from falling rocks, cave-ins, and other dangers. To prevent accidents, miners need to follow safety procedures. These procedures vary by mine, but some common ones include wearing protective gear, using personal flotation devices (PFDs), and following emergency drills.
5. Environmental Scientist
An environmental scientist works to protect the environment by studying how humans impact the natural world. They study air pollution, water quality, climate change, and other issues.
Where To Find Mining Jobs
You can search and apply for mining jobs through the following platforms:
You may also check mining jobs on the various mining company’s websites, just under “career opportunities” or “jobs”.
Follow the application process as stated in the job application and do apply if you qualify for the advertised post.
Mining Companies
Africa is home to some of the largest multinational mining companies, this includes Anglo American, BHB Billiton, Rio Tinto, and Glencore. These mines are worth an estimated $335 billion and are now mining vastly unexplored mineral resources across mainland Africa.
Here are other mining companies in Africa that you can explore:
- Sibanye Stillwater
- Exxaro
- Impala Platinum
- AngloGold Ashanti
- African Rainbow Minerals
- Northam Platinum Ltd
- Gold Fields
- Amani Gold
Mining Job Salary
Your potential salary may vary, depending on the region in which you work as well as the skills you use in your role.
Miners with computer skills and safety certifications, for example, may earn more than miners without professional endorsements. As you gain experience in the field, you may be able to earn more money.