Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining
Excavating and loading machine operators, including dragline operators in surface mining, are involved in the extraction of valuable minerals and materials from the Earth’s surface, contributing to geological exploration and resource management. They need a moderate to extensive background in the geosciences to perform tasks such as:
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Removing overburden, which is the non-valuable soil and rocks covering a mineral deposit, including the preservation of topsoil for future land reclamation.
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Operating excavating equipment to extract valuable minerals or materials from the Earth’s surface. This involves understanding the geological composition of the deposit and optimizing extraction methods.
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Collaborating with geoscientists and engineers in designing and planning mining pits. They consider geological data to optimize the layout of the mine for efficient extraction and safety.
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Collecting geological data during mining operations, which is used in updating geological surveys, mapping ore bodies, and understanding the geological features of the mining site.
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Identifying and reporting geological hazards, such as unstable slopes or rock formations, to ensure the safety of mining operations.
Read more about this occupation on O*NET OnLine at www.onetonline.org/link/summary/47-5022.00
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