Miner
Tasks & duties
Miners may do some or all of the following:
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set up and operate a variety of surface or underground mining machinery
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construct underground tunnels and passageways
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scale loose rock from walls and roof
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extract, load and transport coal and minerals
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test for gas in the mines
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inspect mine shafts
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install air ventilation shafts in underground mines
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operate transport hoists through mine shafts
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set fuses and detonate explosives
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install roof supports in underground mines
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perform routine maintenance and report faulty equipment
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complete record sheets of work actioned
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ensure health and safety standards are maintained
Specialisations
Miners may specialise in a variety of roles including drilling, blasting, hoisting, operating mining machines and operating trucks.
Skills & knowledge
Miners need to have:
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knowledge of different mining methods and how a mine works
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the ability to operate mining machinery
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knowledge of how to handle explosives and blasting
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some mechanical skills to diagnose faults and carry out basic repairs
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good spatial awareness skills
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excellent listening and communication skills
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good reflexes
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knowledge of the health and safety regulations for working on a mine site
Entry requirements
To become a miner you must be at least 16 years old. Most skills are learned on the job from supervisors and experienced miners.
Tertiary education
Extractive Industries Training Organisation (EXITO) offers two NZQA accredited training courses:
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National Certificate in Extractive Industry
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National Diploma in Extractive Industries
Training on the job
Many miners gain their skills on the job, usually assisted by more experienced workers.
With the use of more complex equipment, many mining companies now offer introductory training courses.
EXITO also offers Modern Apprenticeships to those aged between 16 and 21 who are already employed in the extractive industry.
Three extractive industry qualifications are available:
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National Certificate in Extractive Industries – Surface Extraction strand, Level 3
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National Certificate in Extractive Industries – Underground Extraction strand, Level 3
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National Certificate in Extractive Industries – Lime Mill Processing, Level 4.
Useful experience
Experience operating machinery, driving heavy vehicles or working in the construction industry is helpful.
Video
Gold Mining
Coal Mining
Drilling
From just a job on you tube
For more information, please refer to Career Services.
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