Mining engineers assess the feasibility, safety and productivity of mine locations and plan, manage and optimise the extraction of surface and underground deposits.
Different countries have varying requirements for entry into the profession so it is important to research the requirements and gain a qualification that will be accepted.
What does a mining engineer do? Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills
Mining engineers ensure that underground resources such as minerals, metals, oil and gas are extracted safely and efficiently. Typical job responsibilities include:
Mining engineering is an international profession, with many jobs based overseas.
Jobs are advertised online, by careers services, specialist recruitment agencies and in publications such as TARGETjobs Engineering , Mining Journal and InfoMine , plus their respective websites. Speculative applications made early during the first term of your final year are essential. The Directory of Mines and Quarries may prove useful for contact information. You can also find tips for finding and applying for jobs with smaller engineering companies here .
To become a mining engineer, you will need a degree in a relevant subject such as mining engineering, civil engineering or geology. Some employers will ask for a 2.1 degree but others will accept candidates with a 2.2 degree. Take a look at our list of engineering employers that accept 2.2 degrees
A postgraduate qualification can be beneficial and may be necessary for some posts. A list of accredited courses is available on the Engineering Council’s website and you can read our article on engineering postgraduate options to explore your options.
Relevant experience gained via placements or by working in junior positions is extremely beneficial. Take a look at our list of engineering employers who offer industrial placements and summer internships . Most mining engineering degree courses offer periods of practical mining experience – these can provide a useful source of contacts for employment following the completion of academic studies.
Different countries have varying requirements for entry into the profession in terms of experience and academic qualifications, so it is important to research the requirements and gain a qualification that will be accepted.
Achieving chartered (CEng) status with the Engineering Council can help to demonstrate your professionalism and commitment to your field. To become chartered, you will need an accredited bachelors degree with honours in engineering or technology, plus an appropriate masters degree (MEng) or doctorate (EngD) accredited by a professional engineering institution such as the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3). You will also be eligible with an integrated MSc. To find out more, take a look at our guide to chartership.
Read our article on the skills engineering employers look for for more information and then find out how you can prove you possess these competencies at engineering assessment centres .
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