Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining

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  Career Profile

Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining

What they do

Operate underground loading or moving machine to load or move coal, ore, or rock using shuttle or mine car or conveyors. Equipment may include power shovels, hoisting engines equipped with cable-drawn scraper or scoop, or machines equipped with gathering arms and conveyor.

Also Called: Coal Hauler Operator, Equipment Operator, Load Haul Dump Operator (LHD Operator), Loader Operator, Loading Machine Operator, Miner Operator, Production Miner, Ram Car Operator, Shuttle Car Operator, Underground Miner, Coal Hauler Operator, Equipment Operator, Load Haul Dump Operator (LHD Operator), Loader Operator, Loading Machine Operator, Miner Operator, Production Miner, Ram Car Operator, Shuttle Car Operator, Underground Miner

$45,250
Starting Salary (2023)
$64,070
Median Salary (2023)
-17.7%
Projected Job Growth
5,160
Employment (2022)

Typical Tasks

Drive loaded shuttle cars to ramps and move controls to discharge loads into mine cars or onto conveyors.
Examine roadway and clear obstructions from the path of travel.
Observe hand signals, grade stakes, or other markings when operating machines.
Control conveyors that run the entire length of shuttle cars to distribute loads as loading progresses.
Handle high voltage sources and hang electrical cables.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Dependability
Attention to Detail
Self-Control
Concern for Others
Initiative
Independence

What key skills are needed for this job?

Operation and Control
Operations Monitoring
Troubleshooting
Equipment Maintenance
Coordination
Active Listening

Expected Knowledge

Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Law and Government
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.

Common Activities

Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Controlling Machines and Processes
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).

More Info

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