Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining
What is a Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining?
Loading and Moving Machine Operators in underground mining are specialized professionals responsible for operating equipment that loads, moves, and transports materials such as coal, minerals, or ores within a mining site. These operators work in the depths of tunnels and shafts, utilizing various types of heavy machinery, including hydraulic shovels, continuous miners, shuttle cars, and other equipment tailored for underground operations. Their role is critical to ensuring that mining operations run efficiently and safely. They are trained to navigate tight spaces, manage the flow of materials to the surface, and maintain the machinery used in the process. The operators must also be vigilant about safety protocols to protect themselves and their coworkers from the inherent risks associated with underground mining. They often collaborate with other miners and supervisors to coordinate work, troubleshoot machinery problems, and ensure that production targets are met while adhering to environmental and safety regulations.
Tasks
- Handle high voltage sources and hang electrical cables.
- Drive loaded shuttle cars to ramps and move controls to discharge loads into mine cars or onto conveyors.
- Pry off loose material from roofs and move it into the paths of machines, using crowbars.
- Move trailing electrical cables clear of obstructions, using rubber safety gloves.
- Control conveyors that run the entire length of shuttle cars to distribute loads as loading progresses.
Technology Skills
- Spreadsheet software
- Presentation software
- Facilities management software
- Electronic mail software
- Operating system software
Tools Used
- Earthmoving shovels
- Belt conveyors
- Hydraulic breaker chisel
- Grease guns
- Respirators
Knowledge
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Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
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Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Skills
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Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
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Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
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Troubleshooting
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Coordination
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Abilities
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Control Precision
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
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Multilimb Coordination
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
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Reaction Time
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
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Arm-Hand Steadiness
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
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Manual Dexterity
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
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Less than high school diploma
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Post-secondary certificate
Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)
Work Activities
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Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
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Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
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Controlling Machines and Processes
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
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Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Detailed Work Activities
- Connect cables or electrical lines.
- Install electrical components, equipment, or systems.
- Operate vehicles or material-moving equipment.
- Position material handling equipment.
- Operate excavation equipment.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$45250.0 - $75400.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.