Are you looking for mining job opportunities in Australia but don’t know where to start? This is a common problem for most entry-level workers. Every career has special tips and tricks for finding a job opening. Mining jobs are no different. This article will equip you with the right information you need to successfully find and land a well-paying job in the Australian mining sector.
Types of Mining
The main types of mining sectors you can consider when looking for mining jobs are:
Underground Mining
This type of mining involves the excavation of hard minerals from underground or below the surface of the earth. Some of the most popular hard minerals that are mined using this method are gold, nickel, zinc, copper, iron, and silver.
Surface Mining
In surface mining, the extraction of ore is done near the surface. The valuable minerals are located in shallow depths. There are two main types of surface mining – strip and open pit. When compared to underground, surface mining jobs are more predominant.
Placer Mining
This type of mining involves the use of water to excavate minerals from placer or alluvial deposits. Gold is one of the minerals that is usually extracted using this method.
Top Mining Jobs to Consider
Here are the top mining jobs you can consider in Australia:
Mining Engineer
As a mining engineer, you are responsible for all the planning that goes into opening new mining sites. You prepare an area for mining by analysing all kinds of data with the help of specialised software applications. The analysis helps estimate the quantity of minerals, determine if the rock formation can provide adequate stability, and establish whether or not the ventilation is appropriate for mining.
Key Mining Engineer Responsibilities
- Inspect existing and new mining sites to estimate material reserves
- Preliminary studies and surveys of coal, mineral, and ore deposits
- Design safe mining sites for workers to excavate materials from the earth
- Determine the equipment and staff needed for successful mining operations
- Supervise mining projects and manage mining operations
- Maintain mining equipment and make decisions regarding new purchases
Skills & Qualifications
- Strong technical skills
- Leadership and teamwork skills
- Analytical and problem-solving skills
- Computer skills
- Mechanical ability
- Communication and management
- Mathematics
- Commitment to Safety
- Commercial awareness
Geophysicist
A geophysicist inspects what’s inside the earth at both small and large scales. They carry out surveys and generate physical fields of the earth. These professionals install seismometers to study how earthquakes impact people. Similarly, they study how earthquakes can reveal the composition and internal structure of the earth. Some geophysicists study the changing shape and gravity field of the Earth with the help of satellites. Many geophysicists scan for useful resources, such as metals, hydrocarbons, and groundwater with the help of probes.
Key Geophysicist Responsibilities
- Scan and locate underground resources
- Conduct field and laboratory studies
- Develop seismic data for gas and oil industries
- Control data quality
- Develop data acquisition plans
- Inspect the physical properties of useful rocks
Skills & Qualifications
- Strong mathematical background
- Proficiency in Information Technology
- Project management skills
- Excellent communication skills
- Proficient in geophysics, geology, physics, and geoscience
- Problem-solving and analytical skills
- Good colour vision
- Willingness to travel for research and fieldwork
- Flexibility and adaptability
Geoscientist
A geoscientist studies and works with soils, minerals, fossils, energy resources, freshwater, and oceans among other elements of the earth. There are several types of geoscientists career paths. The most popular ones are geologists, hydrologists, volcanologists, meteorologists, seismologists, oceanographers, and paleontologists.
Key Geoscientist Responsibilities
- Perform geological mapping and field surveys
- Analysing and understanding geological data
- Provide geological insights and expertise to other scientists
- Evaluating the feasibility of mining operations
- Staying up to date with new trends in geoscience technologies and research
- Presenting important findings and recommendations
Skills & Qualifications
- Reliable problem-solving and analytical abilities
- Attention to detail when collecting, analysing, and documenting data
- Collaboration and teamwork skills
- Excellent communication skills
- Proficient in geophysics, geology, environmental science, and geoscience
Geotechnician
A geotechnical engineer or geotechnician is a professional who helps a geoscientist perform research and collect samples. They are highly proficient in civil engineering. Their main focus is on the analysis of subsurface conditions to understand the behaviour of rocks and soil. They ensure the structural integrity and safety of mining projects by designing robust and stable foundations.
Key Geotechnician Responsibilities
- Collecting and analysing data
- Analysing sites and designs
- Making important recommendations on how a site is to be used
- Testing and advising on a range of construction materials
- Planning detailed field investigations
- Advise on site selection with the help of aerial photographs and geological maps
- Develop 2D and 3D models using computer software
Skills & Qualifications
- Technical instruments
- Problem-solving skills
- Physical endurance
- Geology research, mathematics, and science
- Project management skills
- A passion for the environment
- Proficient in mineral or mining engineering
Scaffolder
A scaffolder is an important figure in the construction, building maintenance, and mining industries. Scaffolders provide efficiency and safety. They erect and disassemble scaffoldings to safely support materials and crew during construction.
Key Scaffolder Responsibilities
- Erect and disassemble temporary scaffoldings
- Creating various platforms
- Install safety netting, guard rails, and laying planks
- Selecting and assembling clamps, braces, and pipes
- Adhere to safety regulations to provide stable and secure scaffolding bases
- Training and supervising the next generation of scaffolders
Skills & Qualifications
- Communication skills
- Understand technical plans and drawings
- Health and safety awareness
- Excellent physical fitness
- Good coordination
- Working at high heights with confidence
- Experience in scaffolding
- Knowledge of local building regulations and codes
- Ability to work with a wide variety of materials and tools
Metallurgist
Metallurgists play an important role in the mining sector. They study and analyse metals. Also, they develop unique processes for extracting metals more efficiently.
Key Metallurgist Responsibilities
- Determine design requirements
- Conducting laboratory-based analysis
- Providing technical advice
- Adherence to quality standards
- Investing production problems
- Providing constructive feedback
- Inspecting and maintaining quality
Skills & Qualifications
- Analytical and problem-solving ability
- Innovation
- Good information technology skills
- Communication skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Organisation skills
- Commercial awareness
- Proficient in IT, material science, and metallurgy
Mining Jobs Market Trend & Outlook in Australia
Australia is the world’s largest producer of important resources, such as bauxite, coal, and iron ore. The country’s mining industry plays a crucial role in the economy. So, the mining industry is expected to keep growing, providing many mining job opportunities to Aussies in the coming years. Furthermore, mining jobs in the country are well-paying with an impressive median salary.
Some of the most in-demand mining jobs include but are not limited to mining engineer, geoscientist, geophysicist, and geotechnician. Also, the mining industry is investing in advanced technologies. The industry’s use of automation and robotics has significantly increased. Overall, the Australian job market for mining jobs keeps growing stronger every year.
