Life As a Mining or Geological Engineer
Job Description & Duties Conduct sub-surface surveys to identify the characteristics of potential land or mining development sites. May specify the ground support systems, processes and equipment for safe, economical, and environmentally sound extraction or underground construction activities. May inspect areas for unsafe geological conditions, equipment, and working conditions. May design, implement, and coordinate mine safety programs.
Life As a Mining or Geological Engineer
- Conduct or direct mining experiments to test or prove research findings.
- Inspect mining areas for unsafe structures, equipment, and working conditions.
- Lay out, direct, and supervise mine construction operations, such as the construction of shafts and tunnels.
- Design, develop, and implement computer applications for use in mining operations such as mine design, modeling, or mapping or for monitoring mine conditions.
- Design, implement, and monitor the development of mines, facilities, systems, or equipment.
- Prepare schedules, reports, and estimates of the costs involved in developing and operating mines.
Qualities of a Mining or Geological Engineer
These are the skills Mining and Geological Engineers say are the most useful in their careers:
Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Related Job Titles
- Mine Safety Manager
- Mining Project Engineer
- Underground Mining Engineer
- Geological Engineer
- Mine Environmental Engineer
Job Outlook for Mining and Geological Engineers
There were about 7,300 jobs for Mining or Geological Engineer in 2016 (in the United States). New jobs are being produced at a rate of 8.2% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 600 new jobs for Mining or Geological Engineer by 2026. The BLS estimates 600 yearly job openings in this field.
The states with the most job growth for Mining or Geological Engineer are North Dakota, Colorado, and Tennessee. Watch out if you plan on working in Kentucky, Utah, or Wyoming. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Salary for a Mining or Geological Engineer
The average yearly salary of a Mining or Geological Engineer ranges between $54,550 and $151,030.
Mining and Geological Engineers who work in California, New Mexico, or Florida, make the highest salaries.
How much do Mining and Geological Engineers make in different U.S. states?
| State | Annual Mean Salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $97,670 |
| Alaska | $112,110 |
| Arizona | $81,150 |
| California | $123,060 |
| Colorado | $108,130 |
| Florida | $113,200 |
| Idaho | $74,990 |
| Illinois | $92,530 |
| Indiana | $72,840 |
| Kentucky | $94,810 |
| Maryland | $76,360 |
| Michigan | $78,700 |
| Minnesota | $101,710 |
| Nevada | $85,640 |
| New Mexico | $140,130 |
| New York | $90,240 |
| North Dakota | $80,350 |
| Ohio | $89,260 |
| Oregon | $76,810 |
| Pennsylvania | $90,510 |
| Utah | $93,580 |
| Washington | $99,490 |
| West Virginia | $76,050 |
| Wyoming | $93,990 |
Tools & Technologies Used by Mining and Geological Engineers
Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Mining and Geological Engineers may use on a daily basis:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Project
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Statistical software
- Oracle Primavera Systems
- Carlson SurvCADD
- Maptek Vulcan
- MineSight
- Trimble Geomatics Office
- Gemcom Surpac
Becoming a Mining or Geological Engineer
What education is needed to be a Mining or Geological Engineer?
What work experience do I need to become a Mining or Geological Engineer?
Where Mining and Geological Engineers Work
Below are examples of industries where Mining and Geological Engineers work:
Related Careers
Those interested in being a Mining or Geological Engineer may also be interested in:
References:
Image Credit: Zina Deretsky, National Science Foundation via Public domain
More about our data sources and methodologies.
Find Career Bootcamps provides higher-education, college and university, degree, program, career, salary, and other helpful information to students, faculty, institutions, and other internet audiences. Presented information and data are subject to change. Inclusion on this website does not imply or represent a direct relationship with the company, school, or brand. Information, though believed correct at time of publication, may not be correct, and no warranty is provided. Contact the schools to verify any information before relying on it. Financial aid may be available for those who qualify. The displayed options may include sponsored or recommended results, not necessarily based on your preferences.
© Find Career Bootcamps – All Rights Reserved.