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Helpers--Extraction Workers

Also called: Driller Helper, Driller's Assistant, Miner Helper, Powderman

What they do:

Help extraction craft workers, such as earth drillers, blasters and explosives workers, derrick operators, and mining machine operators, by performing duties requiring less skill. Duties include supplying equipment or cleaning work area.

On the job, you would:
  • Observe and monitor equipment operation during the extraction process to detect any problems.
  • Drive moving equipment to transport materials and parts to excavation sites.
  • Unload materials, devices, and machine parts, using hand tools.
On the job, you'll need:

Engineering and Technology

  • mechanical

Arts and Humanities

  • English language

Transportation

  • movement of people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road

Math and Science

  • arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics

Basic Skills

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

Problem Solving

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

Hand and Finger Use

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

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

Endurance

  • exercise for a long time without getting out of breath

Spatial

  • imagine how something will look after it is moved around or changed

Realistic

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

  • Dependability
  • Initiative
  • Attention to Detail
  • Cooperation
  • Achievement/Effort
  • Adaptability/Flexibility

Word processing software

  • Google Docs
  • Microsoft Word

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Electronic mail software

  • Microsoft Outlook

Job Outlook

The job outlook for this position is Below Average.

New job opportunities are less likely in the future.

Median Annual Salary: $43,110

Education

High school diploma/GED is usually needed.

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