Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers
What is a Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers?
Mining and geological engineers, including mining safety engineers, are professionals who design and develop mines for the efficient extraction of minerals, metals, and other natural resources from the earth. These engineers play a crucial role in assessing the geological feasibility of mining locations, evaluating the economic viability of potential mining operations, and ensuring that mining practices are compliant with safety regulations and environmental standards. They utilize their knowledge of geology, engineering principles, and advanced technology to create systems that enhance the safety and efficiency of mining operations. Mining safety engineers, in particular, focus on protecting the health and safety of workers in mining environments by implementing safety protocols, conducting risk assessments, and developing emergency response plans. Their work involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including geologists, environmental scientists, and management teams, to ensure that mining activities are sustainable and responsible, balancing economic benefits with ecological preservation and worker safety.
Tasks
- Prepare technical reports for use by mining, engineering, and management personnel.
- Inspect mining areas for unsafe structures, equipment, and working conditions.
- Select or develop mineral location, extraction, and production methods, based on factors such as safety, cost, and deposit characteristics.
- Select locations and plan underground or surface mining operations, specifying processes, labor usage, and equipment that will result in safe, economical, and environmentally sound extraction of minerals and ores.
- Prepare schedules, reports, and estimates of the costs involved in developing and operating mines.
Technology Skills
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Data base user interface and query software
- Microsoft Access
- MySQL
- Oracle Database
- Structure query language SQL
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Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
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Analytical or scientific software
- GEO-SLOPE GeoStudio
- Maptek Vulcan
- Schlumberger PIPESIM
- Ventsim
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Computer aided design CAD software
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D
- Computer aided design and drafting CADD software
- Promine
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Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Oracle JD Edwards EnterpriseOne
- SAP software
Tools Used
- Geological compasses
- Plotter printers
- Tape measures
- Scanners
- Hammers
Knowledge
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Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Skills
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Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Judgment and Decision Making
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Abilities
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Category Flexibility
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
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Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
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Information Ordering
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Bachelor's degree
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Post-baccalaureate certificate
Awarded for completion of an organized program of study; designed for people who have completed a Baccalaureate degree, but do not meet the requirements of academic degrees carrying the title of Master
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Master's degree
Work Activities
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
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Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Processing Information
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Detailed Work Activities
- Prepare technical reports for internal use.
- Inspect facilities or sites to determine if they meet specifications or standards.
- Advise others on health and safety issues.
- Investigate safety of work environment.
- Determine operational methods.
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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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
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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
$55150.0 - $160820.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.