Mineral Processing Operator
Note: Completion of a TAFE SA course does not guarantee an employment outcome. Formal requirements other than educational qualifications (eg licensing, professional registration), may apply to some occupations.
| Job Prospects |
Average; employment in this occupation is expected to grow strongly to 2014-15. |
| Salary Range |
$35,000 to $90,000 |
| Brief |
A number of processes are needed to turn mined rock into a glittering piece of gold, nickel or copper. Mining support workers ensure that the plants where these ores are processed, run smoothly.
There are just around 100 mining support workers. Employment is largely full-time and most work in the Mining industry. Majority of persons in this occupation are males and most are employed in regional South Australia. This occupation has a younger age profile with less than a quarter of workers aged 45 years or older. |
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Introduction
In what looks like a maze of pipes, conveyor belts and machinery, tonnes of ore are processed at mineral processing plants. In this fully mechanised environment, ore bearing rock is reduced, so that the minerals can be extracted.
Mineral processing operators control and monitor these processes often via computer. They keep close watch on the reagent (chemical) concentration, conductivity, density and temperature of mineral ores and the flow of liquids and gases. The slightest change in the mineral processing cycle, which includes crushing, milling, leeching and smelting, can adversely effect the rate of production, and reduce the quality of a product. In consultation with plant metallurgists, they also make sure that the cycle occurs under the correct conditions, so that the rate of production, along with quality is maintained.
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Education Requirements
No formal qualifications are required to enter into this occupation, however, with more technical skills now being required, it may help to complete some formal qualifications. Many mining companies provide training in house.
A Metalliferous Mining (Processing) traineeship has been introduced into the mining industry. Traineeships involve a combination of on and off the job training. Certificates II and III in Metalliferous Mining Operations (Processing) are available.
TAFE SA offers these courses in the related area:
Certificate III in Mining Exploration
Diploma of Geoscience
Dual Certificate II Program in Resources IWP and Surface Extraction
Certificate I in Resource and Infrastructure Operations
Certificate II in Metalliferous Mining Operations (Open Cut)
Certificate II in Resources and Infrastructure Work Preparation
Certificate II in Surface Extraction Operations
Career Path
Employment prospects for vary between the different regions of the State and the level of activity in the various mining sectors. With some mineral sectors having downsized and the impact of technology affecting some areas, employment demand is currently only average.
Industry
Mining
Nature of the Job
Liquid flow is a condition that needs to remain constant throughout processing. Variations in flow rate can affect liquid temperature, slowing down the rate of chemical reaction and in turn, decreasing the rate of production. The flow is monitored and regulated by a series of tanks, pumps, valves, sensors and a large amount of other equipment. Mining support workers need to adjust controls and check equipment to counter any change that may occur in the processing conditions.
Typical Physical Working Environment
Mineral processing operators are now required to be more multi skilled then ever. The work environment is considered to be more hi tech and advanced, but may vary from site to site. Some areas will be air conditioned and clean, others may be quite dirty.
Trouble shooting is another important role. Putting to use their problem solving ability and knowledge of equipment, machinery and the steps involved in mineral processing, they will assess problems and try to come up with solutions. General maintenance of equipment, which differs according to the type of plant you are working at, is an essential part of an operator's duties. This involves keeping it in good condition, fixing any basic mechanical faults and cleaning. More and more, mining companies are looking for mineral operators who have technical and practical and manual skills for operating computers and for fixing machinery.
Typical Occupational Example
Mineral ores need to be crushed, ground and reduced in size. During this process, ores travel along extensive conveyor belt systems, through vibrating feeders, electronic magnets and crushers. This equipment can easily become obstructed, and must therefore, be carefully monitored by the mineral processing operator. A
Different chemicals (reagents) are used during reduction or oxidisation processing stages. It's the mining support worker who checks that the correct amount of chemicals (reagents) is added. Throughout the production cycle (where mineral bearing ore is crushed, milled, floated, thickened and leached and in some cases roasted and/or smelted), a mineral processing operator will monitor such factors as temperature, rate of oxygen flow, density and the rate of reaction. They keep tabs on these factors from a computer screen or directly by moving about the plant.
Earning Potential
Most work is undertaken on a shift work basis, 12 hours on and 12 hours off is the norm. However, some positions may involve regular work hours. Salaries depend on whether it is shift or day work, and the location of the operation and the number of hours completed per week. Day workers earn between $35,000 and $45,000 per annum. Shift workers start at around $45,000 and may go as high $80,000 or $90,000. The higher salary ranges are earned by mineral processing operators who have advanced onto a foreman, or into a supervisory role.
Further Information
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