Profession mining geotechnical engineer

Mining geotechnical engineers in mining perform engineering, hydrological and geological tests and analyses to improve the safety and efficiency of mineral operations. They oversee the collection of samples and the taking of measurements using geotechnical investigation methods and techniques. They model the mechanical behaviour of the rock mass and contribute to the design of the mine geometry.

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Personality Type

• Realistic / Investigative

Knowledge

• Impact of geological factors on mining operations

  Be aware of the impact of geological factors, such as faults and rock movements, on mining operations.

• Geology

  Solid earth, rock types, structures and the processes by which they are altered.

Skills

• Design infrastructure for surface mines

  Assist with the design of mine infrastructure using specialised computer software and data calculations.

• Plan geotechnical investigations in the field

  Conduct thorough field investigations; perform drills and analyse samples of rocks and sediments.

• Supervise staff

  Oversee the selection, training, performance and motivation of staff.

• Advise on geology for mineral extraction

  Provide advice of the impact of geological factors on the development of mineral production. Take into account factors such as cost, safety, and characteristics of deposits.

• Prepare technical reports

  Prepare technical reports that describe results and processes of scientific or technical research, or assess its progress. These reports help researchers to keep up to date with recent findings.

• Use mine planning software

  Use specialised software to plan, design and model for mining operations.

• Manage geotechnical staff

  Manage a complete geotechnical staff including consultants, contractors, geologists and geotechnical engineers.

• Use a computer

  Utilise computer equipment or digital devices to facilitate quality control, data management, and communication. Follow instructions given by a computer programme, create computer files or documents.

• Advise on construction materials

  Provide advice on and test a wide range of construction materials.

• Address problems critically

  Identify the strengths and weaknesses of various abstract, rational concepts, such as issues, opinions, and approaches related to a specific problematic situation in order to formulate solutions and alternative methods of tackling the situation.

Optional knowledge and skills

Source: Sisyphus ODB