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Continuous Mining Machine Operators

Also called: Continuous Miner Operator (CMO), Continuous Mining Machine Operator, Continuous Mining Operator (CMO), Miner Operator

What they do:

Operate self-propelled mining machines that rip coal, metal and nonmetal ores, rock, stone, or sand from the mine face and load it onto conveyors, shuttle cars, or trucks in a continuous operation.

On the job, you would:
  • Hang ventilation tubing and ventilation curtains to ensure that the mining face area is kept properly ventilated.
  • Conduct methane gas checks to ensure breathing quality of air.
  • Check the stability of roof and rib support systems before mining face areas.
On the job, you'll need:

Engineering and Technology

  • mechanical

Manufactured or Agricultural Goods

  • manufacture and distribution of products

Safety and Government

  • law and government

Education and Training

  • teaching and course design

Basic Skills

  • thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
  • keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements

Problem Solving

  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Controlled Movement

  • quickly change the controls of a machine, car, truck or boat
  • use your arms and/or legs together while sitting, standing, or lying down

Hand and Finger Use

  • keep your arm or hand steady
  • hold or move items with your hands

Attention

  • pay attention to something without being distracted
  • do two or more things at the same time

Hearing and Speech

  • tell the difference between sounds

Realistic

People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.

  • Attention to Detail
  • Dependability
  • Initiative
  • Independence
  • Self Control
  • Stress Tolerance

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Mobile location based services software

  • Fleet monitoring system software
  • Leica Geosystems FMS

Video courtesy of CareerOneStop.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for this position is Below Average.

New job opportunities are less likely in the future.

Median Annual Salary: $57,360

Education

High school diploma/GED is usually needed.

Explore More

See other careers in the Mining, Oil, & Gas industry.