Mine Manager

Tasks & duties

Mine managers may do some or all of the following:

• oversee the removal and processing of stone, rock and minerals from a mine
• plan future mine production
• oversee mine development and tunnelling
• check the quality of the stone, rock and minerals
• organise workers and equipment, including equipment maintenance
• hire staff and organise staff training
• inspect the mine for dangers
• record that the mine has been inspected and that it is safe
• ensure the Health and Safety Act, the Approved Code of Practice – Mining and Tunnelling, and the Resource Management Act are all followed
• ensure resource consents are granted, and that council requirements and regulations are followed
• monitor the environmental impact of mining
• oversee financial administration of the mine, including budgets, accounts and sales
• liaise and negotiate with suppliers, contractors, clients, shareholders and corporate managers
• deliver presentations and write reports for other managers and mine workers, shareholders, visitors and other groups

Skills & knowledge

Mine managers need to have:

• good leadership skills
• knowledge of mining methods
• knowledge of customer requirements for mine products
• knowledge of relevant legislation such as the Approved Code of Practice – Mining and Tunnelling, the Health and Safety Act, and the Resource Management Act
• business and management skills
• excellent communication skills

Entry requirements

To become a mine manager you need to have a Certificate of Competence from the Occupational Health and Safety Service of the Department of Labour. This is usually obtained through on-the-job training and assessment by a registered assessor and the Extractive Industries Training Organisation (EXITO). 

Secondary education

There are no specific education requirements for mine managers; however, School Certificate or NCEA equivalent English and maths are helpful.

Training on the job

Most skills are gained on the job. Mine managers must keep up to date with developments in the industry through reading and attending courses, seminars and conferences. EXITO offers national certificates and diplomas for mine managers and supervisors.

Useful experience

Working in the mining industry is the most useful experience because you need to have extensive knowledge and experience of mining operations. A background in mine engineering, surveying or mine supervision may be particularly helpful. Practical experience with heavy machinery and with accounting, finance or in a management role may also be useful.

Related courses

Business Management
Environmental Engineering
Geology

For more information, please refer to myfuture.