Mining and Geological Engineers

Mining and geological engineers are engaged in finding, extracting, and preparing coal, metals, and minerals so that they can be used by the manufacturing and utility industries. They are involved in designing open pits and underground mines, often using computers; supervising the building and construction of mine shafts and tunnels in underground processes; and devising techniques for the transportation of minerals to their processing plant sites.

Mining engineers are also responsible for the safe, low cost, and environmentally sound operation of mines. Some mining engineers collaborate with geologists and metallurgical engineers to find, locate, and appraise new ore deposits. Others engineers are involved in developing advanced mining machinery or directing the mineral processing operations to in order to separate minerals from the dirt, rock, and other materials with which they are mixed. These engineers usually specialize in the mining of a particular mineral or metal like coal or gold. Due to the increasing emphasis on protection of the environment, many mining engineers are working to remove obstacles relating to land reclamation along with water and air pollution.