Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining
Underground mining operators operate underground loading or moving machines to load or move coal, ore, or rock using a shuttle or mine car or conveyors. Equipment may include power shovels, hoisting engines equipped with cable-drawn scrapers or scoop, or machines equipped with gathering arms and conveyors.
Underground mining and machine operators work in manufacturing units and operate equipment to create or process various items. Their work areas include using legible tools, inspecting parts, attaining production goals, maintaining the workplace clean and safe, and reducing errors.
A high school diploma or equivalent may be required to become an underground mining machine operator, and on-the-job training is common. Mining machine operators may be required to obtain a commercial driver's license, which is issued by each state, and candidates typically must pass knowledge and skills tests before obtaining the license. For those looking to advance their careers, a four-year degree in earth science or geology from a university may afford them bigger opportunities in mining management.
As loading and mining machine operators use large and powerful equipment, you must be physically fit and sturdy to constantly monitor the equipment you are using. In today’s era, loading and moving operators and underground coal mining work need to use computers to control some machinery. Thereby, knowledge of maintenance software and Microsoft Office is highly sought after.
For a successful career as a loading and machine operator in underground coal mining, you need to showcase in your resumes dexterity, attention to safety, organization, accuracy, teamwork and good communication skills.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- NSQF Level 3 Junior Excavator Operator
- Training Course Driving course from any private or government center
Tasks
- Pry off loose material from roofs and move it into the paths of machines, using crowbars.
- Move trailing electrical cables clear of obstructions, using rubber safety gloves.
- Drive machines into piles of material blasted from working faces.
- Operate levers to move conveyor booms or shovels so that mine contents such as coal, rock, and ore can be placed into cars or onto conveyors.
- Clean hoppers, and clean spillage from tracks, walks, driveways, and conveyor decking.
- Oil, lubricate, and adjust conveyors, crushers, and other equipment, using hand tools and lubricating equipment.
- Replace hydraulic hoses, headlight bulbs, and gathering-arm teeth.
- Stop gathering arms when cars are full.
- Advance machines to gather material and convey it into cars.
- Signal workers to move loaded cars.
Progression Routes
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