Job Description of a Miner
A miner is a person who extracts materials, usually coal and ore, from underground tunnels for the purposes of refining materials that provide energy and other forms of commodities. An experienced miner may also transport the materials to preparation plants and must always ensure the safety of his fellow miners.
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Job Responsibilities
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The miner's primary job responsibilities are to extract coal from deposits that are located at or near ground level by removing earth with a surface mining team. A qualified mining candidate will be expected to assist the team by digging tunnels through three methods: conventional, continuous or longwall. Candidates will also be expected to adhere to all safety measurements put in place by the site manager as blasting with explosives will continue throughout the project.
Once the site is cleared by the manager, the miner will be expected to begin scooping coal deposits onto the conveyor belts or into mine cars sent up to the surface. For the miner assigned to working at the top, he will unload the materials into mining tucks for transport to the plant. The ability to remain alert and cautious is critical to the miner's safety and that of his teammates.
Job Opportunities
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Miners usually gain employment by word of mouth or through family connections as many mining communities have generations of family members in the industry. However, mining companies do have periodic recruiting seasons and eligible candidates should apply directly with the company.
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Qualitative Requirements
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A minimum age requirement of 18 years is enforced across the industry. A successful miner should not be claustrophobic as working conditions can be very tight, and sometimes dark and damp. In these conditions, a successful mining candidate should also be a team player and be willing to work both above and below ground. In addition, good health and reflexes are critical.
Educational Requirements
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A miner generally learns her skills on the job, while others are taught through relatives and friends who have worked in the industry for some time. Most mining communities in the United States offer training in high school or at local colleges and some offer an associate degree in mining. Basic math and English tests are given prior to employment and a mine study exam may also be required.
Average Compensation
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According to PayScale.com, the average miner earns about $45,364 in total annual compensation. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the industry as a whole will see a decrease in its workforce of approximately 2 percent by 2016 as energy companies seek more environmentally friendly forms of energy.
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References
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