Accredited courses from leading Australian universities, TAFEs and colleges

StudySelect branding logo with stylized graduation cap

Select Industry

Courses by Study Type

Providers

Career Advice

​
career-vectorCareer overview: what it takes to become a Miner in Australia

How to Become a Miner in Australia: careers in Mining

trophy-icon0 Course
Symbolic icon for Miner profession
Sorry, we don't have any courses leading to a career as a Miner for you at the moment. Please try searching again.

Definition of a Miner

The career of a Miner is both dynamic and essential, playing a crucial role in the extraction of valuable resources such as coal, ore, and rock from the earth. Miners operate various types of machinery and equipment, either in underground mines or open-cut operations, to ensure the efficient and safe extraction of these materials. This profession not only contributes significantly to the economy but also supports various industries that rely on these resources for production and energy generation.

Miners are responsible for a range of tasks that require both technical skills and a strong commitment to safety. They operate heavy machinery, such as excavators and loaders, to excavate and transport materials. Additionally, they engage in development work, which includes opening new shafts and drives, as well as maintaining ventilation systems to ensure a safe working environment. Miners must also adhere to strict safety protocols and regulations, making safety training and awareness a fundamental aspect of their daily responsibilities.

In their day-to-day activities, miners often work in teams, collaborating closely with engineers and other specialists to optimise extraction processes. They monitor equipment performance, conduct routine maintenance, and troubleshoot any issues that may arise during operations. This collaborative environment fosters a sense of camaraderie among workers, as they share the common goal of achieving production targets while prioritising safety and efficiency.

Overall, a career as a Miner offers a unique blend of physical activity, technical skill, and teamwork. It provides opportunities for professional growth and advancement, particularly for those who are willing to invest in their training and education. With the ongoing demand for minerals and resources, miners can look forward to a stable and rewarding career path that contributes to the foundation of modern society.

On this Page

What Will I Do

What Skills Do I Need

Career Snapshot

Resources

What does a Miner do?

Miners play a crucial role in the extraction of valuable resources from the earth, operating in both underground and open-cut environments. Their work involves a variety of tasks that ensure the efficient and safe extraction of coal, ore, and rock. With a focus on safety and operational efficiency, miners are essential to the mining industry, contributing to the supply of materials that support various sectors of the economy.

  • Operate mining equipment – Miners are responsible for operating various types of machinery used in the extraction process, including drills, loaders, and haul trucks.
  • Excavate materials – They excavate coal, ore, or rock from the earth, loading it onto carts or conveyor systems for transport to processing facilities.
  • Conduct safety checks – Miners perform regular safety inspections of equipment and work areas to ensure compliance with safety regulations and to prevent accidents.
  • Develop new mining sites – They undertake development work, such as opening new shafts and drives, to expand mining operations and access new resources.
  • Monitor environmental conditions – Miners assess and monitor environmental conditions within the mine to ensure safe working conditions and to mitigate risks.
  • Collaborate with team members – They work closely with other miners and supervisors to coordinate tasks and ensure efficient operations.
  • Maintain equipment – Miners are involved in the routine maintenance of mining equipment to ensure it operates effectively and safely.
  • Report on production – They keep records of production levels and report on the progress of mining operations to management.

What skills do I need to be a Miner?

A career as a miner requires a diverse set of skills that are essential for operating in challenging environments. Miners must possess strong technical abilities, particularly in operating heavy machinery and understanding mining equipment. Safety compliance is paramount, as they must adhere to strict regulations to ensure their own safety and that of their colleagues. Additionally, physical stamina and the ability to work in confined spaces are crucial, given the demanding nature of the job.

Moreover, effective communication and teamwork skills are vital, as miners often work in teams to coordinate tasks and ensure efficient operations. Problem-solving skills are also important, enabling miners to quickly address any issues that may arise during the extraction process. Continuous learning and adaptability are essential traits, as the mining industry evolves with new technologies and methods. Overall, a successful miner combines technical expertise with a commitment to safety and collaboration.

Skills/attributes

  • Strong physical fitness and stamina
  • Ability to work in confined spaces
  • Proficiency in operating heavy machinery
  • Knowledge of safety regulations and practices
  • Teamwork and collaboration skills
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Attention to detail
  • Basic mechanical skills
  • Adaptability to changing environments
  • Effective communication skills
  • Understanding of geological and mining principles
  • Commitment to continuous learning and training

Does this sound like you?

Career Snapshot for a Miner

The career of a miner is a vital component of Australia’s resource sector, with a significant number of individuals engaged in this field. Miners are responsible for operating plants to excavate, load, and transport coal, ore, and rock in both underground and open-cut mines.

  • Average Age: 42 years
  • Gender Distribution: 12% female, 88% male
  • Hours Worked: Average of 63 hours per week, with 94% working full-time
  • Average Pay: Approximately AU$37.00 per hour, with total annual earnings ranging from AU$63,000 to AU$136,000
  • Unemployment Rate: Relatively low, with a stable demand for miners
  • Employment Numbers: Approximately 40,600 individuals are currently employed as miners
  • Projected Growth: The mining sector is expected to continue growing, driven by ongoing demand for resources

This information highlights the essential role miners play in the economy, as well as the opportunities available for those considering a career in this field. The data is sourced from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2021 Census of Population and Housing.

Mining Career resources

NATIONAL

QLD

VIC

WA

SA

NT

ACT

TAS

StudySelect makes every effort to ensure the information we provide is correct at the time of publication. We welcome your input to help keep our career profiles as accurate and up to date as possible. All queries and feedback will be taken into consideration as we conduct periodic reviews of our content. Add your voice to the conversation!