Coal Careers
For decades, coal mining was a risky career path. Partly because of physical dangers, but more so because of lack of job security. The recent coal boom and the industry's growing need for college-educated engineers have made mining a career of choice. In the next decade, more than 50 percent of the mining workforce is expected to retire, creating a strog demand for new workers.
The entire coal mining process from exploration, development and production, through mine closure can take as long as 20 to 30 years. Geologists and engineers locate and assess potential coal deposits and develop mine plans. Once customers for the coal have been identified, a diverse project team, with engineering, environmental, purchasing and construction expertise, develops the mine. During the construction, a team of technical, environmental, production, maintenance and administrative personnel are brought together to ensure that mining and environmental activities are conducted safely and effciently.If the coal will be exported, coal processing and shipping personnel are added to the team.
Work Environment
Many coal mines operate 24 hours a day, so operations personnel typically work in shifts. Although some coal industry employees work in large urban areas, most live in smaller communities near the mines.
Work environments vary by occupation. Scientists, technicians, executives, and administrative and clerical workers work in office buildings and laboratories. Engineers and managers usually split their time between offices and the mine, where construction and extraction workers spend most of their time.
Modern heavy equipment has reduced the physical demands historically placed on miners. Coal mining has become increasingly technical, and students with advanced-engineering degrees are in high demand.
- Coal Procurement
- Coal Utilization
- Environmental Specialists
- Geologists
- Industrial Engineers
- Information Systems
- Mine Planners
- Mining Engineers
- Surveyor
More information
Careers in the
Minerals Industry -
Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration (SME)
This brochure presents, benefits, opportunities, career profiles and academic preparation for careers in the minerals industry. Includes geology,
geological engineering, mining, mineral processing, environment, health and safety.
University Programs
University/College Programs - American Coal Council
Links
to some of the university and college mining, energy, and fuels programs available in the U.S.
