South Africa’s mineral and mining sector contributes significantly to the national economy and employs over 450 000 people. The process of extracting valuable minerals and metals from diamonds and gold, to reserves of iron ore, platinum and others, is labour intensive and poses significant environmental, safety and health risks. Technical prowess and accuracy is needed in the mining environment to minimise impacts during exploration, extraction, processing and transportation in mining operations.
Mining technicians assist mining engineers, metallurgists, production supervisors and other professionals with mineral exploration processes. They work above and below ground under dangerous working conditions and occasionally work in a laboratory environment to test mineral samples.
Mining technicians need an extensive and sound knowledge of rock and mineral characteristics, physical properties and extraction processes and procedures. They will also benefit from:
Assist in planning and designing a mine, mine shafts, tunnels and underground facilities
Conduct research and geological and topographical surveys
Collect, prepare and test rock, mineral and metal samples
Monitor technical, regulatory health, safety and environmental aspects in mining processes
B.Sc.Eng. in Mining Engineering at Wits
B.Eng. in Mining Engineering at UP
Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Mining Engineering at UNISA
National, provincial and local government.
Mining companies.
