HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
The usual pathway for mining engineers is a university degree in engineering, often with specialization related to mining or a related field. Some workers may also pursue further study after a first degree. In Canada, employers may expect different combinations of education and experience depending on the job, the province, and the type of mining operation. Students interested in this career should focus on math, physics, chemistry, and technology courses, since these subjects support later engineering study. Co-op, summer jobs, or volunteer activities in science or industry settings can help build experience and show interest, though specific entry steps vary by employer and region.
THE WORK
What you may do
Legacy duties
- Conduct preliminary surveys and studies of ore, mineral or coal deposits to assess the economic and environmental feasibility of potential mining operations
- Determine the appropriate means of safely and efficiently mining deposits
- Determine and advise on appropriate drilling and blasting methods for mining, construction or demolition
- Design shafts, ventilation systems, mine services, haulage systems and supporting structures
- Design, develop and implement computer applications such as for mine design, mine modelling, mapping or for monitoring mine conditions
- Plan and design or select mining equipment and machinery and mineral treatment machinery and equipment in collaboration with other engineering specialists
- Plan, organize and supervise the development of mines and mine structures and the operation and maintenance of mines
- Prepare operations and project estimates, schedules and reports
- Implement and co-ordinate mine safety programs
- Supervise and co-ordinate the work of technicians, technologists, survey personnel, and other engineers and scientists.
A DAY IN THE LIFE
What a day can include
A mining engineer’s day often starts with reviewing production goals, safety notes, survey data, or project plans. They may spend time in meetings with geologists, technicians, technologists, and other engineers to solve design or operating problems. Some tasks happen in an office, such as preparing estimates, writing reports, or using computer software to update mine plans and models. Other parts of the day may involve visiting a mine site to check conditions, review ventilation or haulage systems, or observe drilling and blasting work. Safety is a major focus, so they may also look at procedures, equipment choices, and changes that could reduce risk and improve efficiency.
SKILLS TO BUILD