Mining engineers design, lay out, and direct construction of underground mines. They design open pit and underground mines as well as supervise the construction of mine shafts and tunnels. They develop ways to transport the minerals to processing plants. Mining engineers must find ways to mine the minerals as safely and cheaply as possible. They also try and limit environmental damage from mining.
Some mining engineers work with geologists and metallurgical engineers to find new ore deposits.
Others are in charge of operations that separate minerals that are mixed in with dirt, rock, and other materials. Some engineers develop new mining equipment. They often specialize in specific metal ores, coal, or other minerals. Technologies Career Cluster.