Mining engineer: what do you need to know about this profession?

Mining engineer - a specialty, the relevance of which is increasing every day. The reason for this is the progress that has engulfed the whole modern world. After all, if half a century ago, the creation of the phone required the presence of only 9 types of minerals, then its current version increased this threshold to 55 titles.

And a similar trend is observed in all branches of modern industry. And in order to provide them with the necessary raw materials, mining companies annually increase their staff by several times. Consequently, a good mining engineer can safely count on a decent job.

But how to become a good specialist? Where exactly to study this profession? And how then to get a job in a promising place? We'll talk about all this.

Who is a mining engineer?

The main task of a mining engineer is the design and maintenance of mining equipment. At the same time, it can work not only with solid materials, but also with oil or natural gas. Here everything depends on its education and the sphere in which the company operates.

It should also be noted that a mining engineer is a managerial post. Let him not be at the very top of the hierarchical ladder, yet he always has several subordinates. For example, it can be locksmiths, welders, electricians and so on.

What should this specialist do?

So, a complete list of all duties of this worker contains job description developed at a specific enterprise. A mining engineer, when entering a job, must read it without fail. After all, only so you can learn about everything for sure and avoid a possible misunderstanding with management in the future.

Here is a small list of those duties that can be imputed to a mining engineer:

• Designing of equipment intended for the search, extraction and transportation of natural minerals.
• Creation of ventilation, water supply and power supply systems in mines and quarries.
• Installation of gas and oil wells and drilling rigs.
• Creation of various kinds of devices designed to improve the work of the mining enterprise.
• Maintenance of various kinds of documentation and drawings.
• Checking the mechanisms and systems for malfunctions, and if necessary, their repair.
• Certification of equipment, in accordance with established norms and standards of the Russian Federation.

Where to get an education?

A mining engineer is a profession that requires a higher education. Therefore, it will be necessary to find a university capable of teaching a person all the necessary skills and abilities.

In general, the following areas are suitable:

• oil and gas business;
• Physical processes in the mining industry;
• Technology of geological prospecting;
• Open mining operations;
• Mine and underground construction.

The very same training implies a deep study of geology and mathematical analysis. In addition, you will have to learn all the norms and standards used to create drawings and plans. And, naturally, we will have to work out a good legislative base in order to clearly understand where it is possible to extract ore, and where it is strictly prohibited.

Personal qualities of a specialist

In addition to the relevant education, an important factor is the personal qualities of the future employee. Quite often, employers check candidates for this position with the help of interviews and probation. What do they want to see?

So, the profession of a mining engineer is first and foremost a great responsibility. Any oversight can cost the company a round sum. In addition, the safety of miners depends on the quality of this employee's work. For example, improperly designed ventilation can cost them their lives.

Also, a mining engineer should be prepared to work more than normal. The reason for this may be a narrow deadline for the delivery of the project or an unforeseen breakdown, which must be quickly eliminated. Therefore, he must have a strong nervous system, endurance and, most importantly, love his work.

Work as a mining engineer

After graduation, any engineer with a diploma can begin to fulfill his duties. And at this point young professionals have a question: "And where is the best place to look for a job?"

First of all, one important point needs to be understood: most prestigious companies require not only the availability of a diploma confirming education, they also need work experience of three years. Naturally, you can try your luck, because, as they say, the attempt is not torture, but you should not have unnecessary illusions.

Therefore, for a young specialist the best solution will be to work in a small company, only gaining momentum in the mining business. First, it's much easier to get here, and secondly, it's an ideal way to get the necessary experience. And who knows, maybe in a few years the young firm will get stronger, and then you will not even have to change your place of work.

Pros and cons of work

Let's start with the positive. A mining engineer is a prestigious position, which - at least - pleases self-esteem. In addition, these specialists receive a fairly good salary, which motivates further work. Also this post can not be called dirty or dusty, and several subordinates significantly simplify life.

Among the minuses, it is necessary to designate a high level of competition, especially in the oil industry. Also, not everyone likes that quite often it is necessary to go on business trips to distant objects.