Mining engineer is a specialty, the relevance of which is increasing every day. The reason for this is the progress that has swept the whole modern world. After all, if half a century ago the creation of the phone required the presence of only 9 types of minerals, then its current version has increased this threshold to 55 items.
And a similar trend is observed in all sectors of modern industry. And in order to provide them with the necessary raw materials, mining companies annually increase their staff by several times. Therefore, a good mining engineer can safely count on a decent job.
But how to become a good specialist? Where exactly to study this profession? And then how to get a promising place? We’ll talk about all this.
Who is a mining engineer?
The main task of the mining engineer is the design and maintenance of mining equipment. Moreover, it can work not only with solid materials, but also with oil or natural gas. It all depends on his education and the sphere in which the company operates.
It should also be noted that the mining engineer is a managerial position. Let him not stand at the very top of the hierarchical ladder, yet he always has several subordinates. For example, it can be locksmiths, welders, electricians, and so on.
What should this specialist do?
So, a complete list of all the duties of this worker contains a job description developed at a particular enterprise. A mining engineer, when entering work, must read it without fail. Indeed, this is the only way to find out about everything for sure and avoid possible misunderstandings with the leadership in the future.
Here is a short list of the responsibilities that a mining engineer can impute:
- Designing equipment designed for the search, extraction and transportation of natural minerals.
- Creation of ventilation systems, water supply and power supply in mines and quarries.
- Installation of gas and oil wells and drilling rigs.
- Creation of various devices designed to improve the operation of a mining enterprise.
- Maintaining various kinds of documentation and drawings.
- Checking mechanisms and systems for malfunctions, and if necessary, repairing them.
- Certification of equipment in accordance with the established norms and standards of the Russian Federation.
Where to get an education?
Mining engineer is a specialty that requires higher education. Therefore, it will be necessary to find a university that can teach a person all the necessary skills.
In general, the following directions are suitable:
- oil and gas business;
- physical processes in the mining industry;
- geological exploration technology;
- open cast mining;
- mine and underground construction.
Learning itself involves a deep study of geology and mathematical analysis. In addition, you will have to learn all the norms and standards used to create drawings and plans. Well, of course, you will have to build up a good legislative base in order to clearly understand where you can mine ore, and where to do it is strictly forbidden.
Personal qualities of a specialist
In addition to the appropriate education, an important factor is the personal qualities of the future employee. Quite often, employers screen candidates for this position through interviews and probationary periods. What do they want to see?
So, the profession of mining engineer is, first of all, a big responsibility. Any oversight can cost the company a round sum. In addition, the safety of miners depends on the quality of work of this employee. For example, improperly designed ventilation can cost them their lives.
Also, the mining engineer must be prepared for the fact that he will have to work beyond the norm. The reason for this may be a narrow deadline for delivery of the project or an unforeseen breakdown that needs to be quickly eliminated. Therefore, he must have a strong nervous system, endurance and, most importantly, love his job.
Work as a mining engineer
After graduation, any engineer with a diploma can begin to perform his duties. And at this moment, young specialists have a question: “And where is the best place to look for work?”
First of all, one important point should be understood: most prestigious companies require not only a diploma confirming education, they also need work experience of three years or more. Naturally, you can try your luck, because, as they say, the attempt is not torture, but at the same time you should not have any illusions.
Therefore, for a young specialist, the best solution would be to find a job in a small company that is only gaining momentum in the mining business. Firstly, getting here is much easier, and secondly, this is an ideal way to get the necessary experience. And who knows there, maybe in a few years the young company will get stronger, and then you won’t even have to change the place of work.
Pros and cons of work
Let's start with the positive. Mining engineer is a prestigious position, which - at least - pleases pride. In addition, these specialists receive a pretty good salary, which motivates them to continue working. Also, this position can not be called dirty or dusty, and several subordinates significantly simplify life.
Among the minuses should be noted high competition, especially in the oil industry. Also, not everyone likes the fact that quite often you have to go on business trips to distant objects.