What to expect from a Mining Career
The mining industry is always looking for skilled professionals. Whether it’s filling specialized roles in geological management or heading into the mines, there are plenty of career opportunities available. Mining programs at Ontario colleges prepare students with both mining techniques and widespread knowledge of geology and earth resources, so they can enter the mining career of their choice.
If you’re interested in starting an in-demand career in the mining and geology industry, here’s what you need to know.
Mining Courses
There are a few types of mining programs available, each with different focuses or different levels of training. These include:
- Mining Techniques. Mining techniques programs are introductory one-year certificate programs that prepare students for entry-level work in the mining industry or for continued mining education. Students learn basic geology, surveying and drafting skills along with a variety of mining methods that will prepare them for both underground and office work in core sampling, mapping, prospecting and more.
- Mining Engineering Technician / Technology. Mining engineering technician and technology programs are more advanced than the techniques programs. Both technician and technologist programs give students a broader and deeper understanding of geology and resources and may offer training on a larger variety of mining equipment. Mining-related skills, such as drilling and blasting, may also be introduced. Technician programs are typically two-year diploma programs while technology programs (offering the most comprehensive training) are generally three-year advanced diploma programs.
Some mining-related programs have specific focuses, like earth sciences and natural resources. These programs have a geotechnical focus and are made up of courses including (but not limited to) mineral studies, geophysics, soil studies and other earth science topics. Students learn to operate geological equipment that can be used in some mining and geological industry practices, such as geotechnical and environmental assessment.
General Mining Program Requirements
Ontario college mining programs typically require an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Academic requirements will vary depending on the program, but generally include senior math and chemistry or physics courses. A grade 12 English credit is often required for technician and technology programs.
Mining Jobs and Salaries
Depending on your chosen program, jobs in the mining industry range from entry-level to more advanced positions, and will include roles such as:
- Mine Manager or Production Supervisor
- Underground Mining Worker
- Surveyor, Project Manager / Engineer
- Geologist Assistant
- Mining Administration
The average starting salary for graduates of mining programs at Ontario colleges is $36,000 a year, with the potential to earn much more. Experienced mine managers and mine workers typically have salaries between $60,000 and $90,000 a year, or even higher depending on the location and type of mining.
Ontario Colleges Offering Mining Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of mining programs at Ontario colleges.
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