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Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining

Also called: Load Haul Dump Operator (LHD Operator), Loader Operator, Loading Machine Operator, Shuttle Car Operator

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.

On the job, you would:
  • Handle high voltage sources and hang electrical cables.
  • Drive loaded shuttle cars to ramps and move controls to discharge loads into mine cars or onto conveyors.
  • Pry off loose material from roofs and move it into the paths of machines, using crowbars.
On the job, you'll need:

Engineering and Technology

  • mechanical

Education and Training

  • teaching and course design

Basic Skills

  • listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • talking to others

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

Attention

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

Hand and Finger Use

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

Realistic

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

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

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Facilities management software

  • Maintenance management software
  • Mine maintenance software

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: $63,920

Education

High school diploma/GED or no high school diploma/GED is usually needed.

Explore More

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