The following provides a brief description of a few of the many occupations normally found in this phase including the typical activities, employment requirements, work schedules, and typical salary ranges. It is important to note that salary ranges vary from region to region and will change over time. Additional sources, such as www.jobfutures.ca, www.acareerinmining.ca, job postings on employers' websites, and job banks (e.g. www.pdacjobs.com) provide more information about salaries.

To create a balanced view of jobs across all skill levels, entry level, skilled, trades, technical and professional jobs are included. This job inventory is intended to highlight some key occupations of the estimated 120 occupations in mining. Some jobs are available in more than one of the mining phases. Contractors and suppliers also provide employment opportunities in various support services throughout the mining cycle. Some support services of particular importance to development include carpenters, plumbers, electricians, pipefitters, welders and mechanics. For a comprehensive listing of occupations at each phase of the mining cycle, see Mining Occupations.

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SURVEYOR

Description	Surveyors are technicians responsible for preparing the surface plans for a mine. Surveyors take measurements through advanced surveying techniques and instruments that help inform development. A surveyor maps, explores and helps develop sites for mineral extraction.
Employment Requirements	Surveyors generally require a post-secondary certificate or diploma in Geomatics (Surveying) Engineering Technology; however, it is possible to be hired as an assistant surveyor without formal training.
Work Schedule	Surveyors sometimes work long hours in difficult terrain and employment can be either year-round or seasonal.
Salary Range	$65,000 - $70,000 a year

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MINING ENGINEER

Description	The mining engineer's primary role is to decide on the best way to get ore out of the ground. In this phase, they work with a team to create a plan to develop the mine efficiently and effectively. Using computer-aided design packages, they prepare detailed plans for mines (including the tunnels, shafts, etc.) and plan the development process. They then oversee the construction and consult with geologists and other engineers about necessary machines, facilities, and infrastructure for the site.
Employment Requirements	A bachelor's degree in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering and Technology and related programs.
Work Schedule	Most engineers work 40-hour workweeks (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm); however, depending on the development schedule, a mining engineer might work longer hours to meet developmental execution plans
Salary Range	$65,000 - $115,000 a year

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MECHANICAL ENGINEER

Description	Mechanical engineers work with many kinds of machines that produce, transmit, or use power, and often also design tools that other engineers need. They conduct research into the feasibility, design, operation, and performance of mechanisms, components and systems which will be used in a mine. A mechanical engineer often approves designs, calculations, and cost estimates.
Employment Requirements	A bachelor's degree in Engineering is required. Some companies may require a candidate to have a master's degree in Engineering.
Work Schedule	Engineers typically work 40-hour workweeks (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm); however, pressing deadlines sometimes increase work hours.
Salary Range	$45,000 - $90,000 a year

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MINING TECHNICIAN

Description	Mining technicians work in every stage of the mining cycle. During development, mining technicians work on-site and in the engineering offices of mining operations. Mining technicians provide technical assistance to professional engineers. Technicians gather information by performing chemical and physical tests. They may also assist in surveying and drafting, and in planning solutions to engineering problems.
Employment Requirements	A technical college diploma (usually a one or two-year program).
Work Schedule	Technicians generally work 40-hour workweeks (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm). They are often required to do shift work and divide their time between offices, laboratories and mines.
Salary Range	$24 - $37 an hour

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MACHINIST

Description	Machinists set up and operate a variety of tools to cut or grind metal, plastic or other materials to make or modify parts or products with precise dimensions. A machinist makes and fixes equipment parts.
Employment Requirements	A high school diploma is generally required. Trade certification through a four-year apprenticeship program can be taken, but is not required in all jurisdictions.
Work Schedule	A machinist working in a mine is likely to work shifts (days, afternoons, nights), or to be on call to respond to situations arising with machinery that could affect construction or production
Salary Range	$24 - $47 an hour

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MILLWRIGHT

Description	Millwrights move and install heavy machinery. They may have to inspect, repair, and clean industrial machinery and equipment. They may be required to operate cranes and tractors to move machinery. They must also be skilled in many construction activities: bricklaying, painting, plumbing, welding, and electrical work may all be part of a millwright's job. Millwrights use these and other skills to build concrete foundations for heavy equipment, assemble new machines, and replace worn parts.
Employment Requirements	To be a millwright, one does not have to be certified; however, it is recommended. To become certified, an individual is usually required to go through a four-year apprenticeship program. For initial hire, a grade 12 diploma is required.
Work Schedule	Typically, millwrights work 40-hour workweeks (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm); however, if a millwright is on duty for maintenance support, they may be required to do shift work (days, afternoons, nights).
Salary Range	$27 - $47 an hour

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GEOLOGICAL ENGINEER

Description	Geological engineers conduct geological and geotechnical studies to assess suitability of locations for mining projects. They plan, design, develop and supervise programs of geological data acquisition and analysis and prepare geological engineering reports and recommendations. Generally, geological engineers help find deposits of coal, minerals, and metals. They also help design mines and mining equipment and they help determine how to extract the useful material from the earth.
Employment Requirements	A bachelor's degree in Engineering is required.
Work Schedule	Most engineers work a typical 40-hour workweek (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm), but this can be extended when deadlines are pressing.
Salary Range	$80,000 - $100,000 a year