Engineers are hot property for the mining industry

Mining Industry Engineers

Australia’s mining industry employs more than 242,800 people, accounting for 1.9 per cent of the total workforce. And, Mining industry engineers like geologists, surveyors, auto electricians, metallurgists and underground miners are hot property for the mining industry.

Over the past five years, employment in the industry has increased by 10.2 per cent, according to the Australian Government Labour Market information portal. 

Combine this with data from the Australian Resources and Energy Group report which predicts the sector will need another 21,000 new workers by 2024, and the mining industry is looking solid for employment prospects. 

This increase and future demand have seen some jobs become more sought after than others, with engineers topping the list. 

Hays Recruitment says Queensland mines are seeking the following Mining site jobs the most:

• Mining engineers, geotechnical engineers, geologists and surveyors (underground)
• Metallurgists and lab technicians
• Drill and blast operators
• Heavy diesel fitters
• Dump truck and all-round operators
• Auto electricians

What’s driving the demand for Mining Engineering?

Mining engineers appear to be the most sought after due to a skills shortage from low enrolments at a university level over the last few years. 

The Future of Work: the Changing Skills Landscape for Miners report by the Minerals Council of Australia says there have been a 67% decrease in mining engineering enrollments compared to eight years ago. 

This is also combined with many skilled workers approaching retirement age and a large increase in technology changes in the industry is driving demand higher. 

What do Mining Industry Engineers do?

Mining engineers are responsible for designing safe and productive mine sites. 

Typically, a mining engineer will have an area of expertise in metal or mineral. 

As well as designing mines, a mining engineer may develop mining equipment or improve existing apparatus. They may also be responsible for managing processing operations. 

Overall, a mining engineer will work to implement the most effective processing methods, conduct inspections, and monitor safety across the mine.

How to become a Mining Engineer?

In Australia, you will need a Bachelor of Engineering degree (majoring in mining or geotechnical engineering). 

Graduates will then require two to three years of graduate experience before securing a position as a professional mine engineer. 

The skills needed for this career path include excellent planning mathematics and advanced communication skills. A Mining engineer can expect to earn between $100,000 to $250,000 per year. 

Is Public Liability Insurance still important?

Yes. Mining projects will always involve a certain level of risk and, if that risk is not managed carefully it could have far-reaching negative effects.

With the increase in mining job opportunities pending make sure you’re covered for all your insurance requirements. 

MineGARD by Gardian provides market leading, comprehensive mine site specific public liability insurance online.  Whether you need mine site insurance for auto electrician, electrical contractors, mechanical diesel fitter, project managers, air leg miner, boilermaker or mining contractors, contact the MineGARD insurance brokers.