The mining sector employs over 450 000 South Africans and supports the livelihoods of many more. Improved and safe management of mining operations can significantly reduce the impact on the natural environment- particularly land, water and air quality - as well as those whose livelihoods it supports. Earthmoving entails the moving of large quantities of soil in the early stages of excavation projects and minerals during operations.

Earthmoving plant operators operate heavy machinery to excavate earth, ore and rock in mining operations. They also move and load earth, rock and debris and further level, smooth and compact sur-faces before, during and after mining. In addition to mining, they could also be involved in the building of roads, railways, water supply infrastructure, dams, treatment plants and agricultural earthworks.

Earthmoving plant operators can work as part of a larger mining or construction team, often for long hours and in relatively dangerous conditions. Regularity of work and income is highly dependent on weather conditions.

SKILLS

Earthmoving plant operators must have an understanding of large earthmoving machinery, the ability to safely operate these and excel-lent hand-eye coordination. They will additionally benefit from:

• ability to read and understand blueprints and specifications
• understanding of extraction processes and procedures
• endurance to withstand difficult and harsh work conditions
• working well as part of an interdependent team

TASKS

• select, fit and remove attachments from plant machinery
• operate plant machinery to excavate, grade, level, smooth and compact earth or similar materials
• monitor and adjust controls of plant machinery
• maintain and perform minor adjustments and repairs

STUDIES

Earthmoving plant operators require a valid heavy vehicle driver’s license and can also benefit from a General Education and Training or National Certificate in Construction in Plant Operations at National Qualifications Framework Level 2 and 3, offered at Azandie Consulting, Eastcape Training Centre, License Wise, Proud Afrique and Skills College.

EMPLOYERS

• Mining and construction companies.

South Africa has a diversity of geological materials such as gold, diamonds, platinum and coal. Mining contributes over 8% to the na-tional economy and is a key employer. Mining activities do however significantly impact the natural environment, through water pollution, biodiversity loss and land use change. Geological surveys investigate features above and beneath a landscape to understand the scope of resources and the implications of mining them.

Geological surveyors plan, direct and conduct surveys to determine, delineate, plan and precisely position tracks of land, natural and con-structed features, coastlines, marine flows and underground works. They map mineral deposits and investigate the commercial potential of mining, assessing the risks and predicting environmental impacts as a result. They record the extent of extraction and can assist in res-toration once an area has been exhausted.

Geological surveyors engage with urban planners, engineers and other development professionals. They can work in offices developing re-ports as well as often travel to onsite locations to survey the landscape.

SKILLS

Geological surveyors require an extensive knowledge of mineral eco-nomics, mineral properties and land use planning legislation. They will also benefit from:

• good analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
• strong scientific and mathematical ability
• ability to interpret maps, charts and graphical data
• good verbal and written communication and presentation skills

TASKS

• survey, measure, calculate and describe land surfaces
• design, compile and revise maps, charts and other surveying documents
• research and report on the development of surveys and land information systems
• maintain technical liaison with relevant specialists

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Surveying at UCT and UKZN
• Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Surveying at MUT and TUT
• Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Geomatics at CPUT and TUT

EMPLOYERS

• National, provincial and local government.
• Construction and mining companies.
• Private consultancies.

The South African landscape consists of diverse geological features that contain ancient fossils and rich resource deposits. The identification and sustainable management of these resources are essential to create a thriving economy as well as ensure healthy environments. Geology involves the science of the physical structure, substances, history and processes acting on the earth.

Geologists explore and estimate resource deposits such as coal, metal, petroleum and natural gas for proposed mining operations. They also study the composition, structure and other physical attributes of the earth and advise construction and mining companies on mitigating risks and potential land impacts. They also plan environmental pro-tection measures by forecasting changes in the landscape caused by for example climate change, to reduce the impact of natural disasters on both people and the natural environment.

Geologists can perform long hours of fieldwork above and below ground that can be physically taxing. They additionally work in labora-tories and offices, testing material samples and reporting on findings.

SKILLS

Geologists must have a thorough geological knowledge of varied ores, soils, minerals and rock types as well as the ability to conduct extensive and complex fieldwork and research. They will also benefit from:

• ability to use geological mapping software
• excellent analytical skills
• knowledge of related policy and regulations
• good verbal and written communication and presentation skills

TASKS

• study the composition and processes impacting varied earth surfaces
• identify and survey geological risks and opportunities
• locate and map the nature and extent of varied resource deposits
• measure seismic, gravitational, thermal, and other forces impacting the earth

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Geology at NMU, NWU, RU, SU, UCT, UFH, UFS, UJ, UKZN, UL, UP, UWC and Wits
• B., M. in Mining and Environmental Geology at Univen
• Diploma, Advanced Diploma, M.Tech in Geology at TUT

EMPLOYERS

• National, provincial and local government.
• NGOs, development organisations and private consultancies.
• Research institutions.

Mining is a key contributor to the national economy with 53 different minerals mined in the South African landscape. The nature of mining activities poses significant risk to the natural environment as well as the mining workforce and surrounding communities. Geophysics explores mineral deposits and related physical processes and properties in the landscape to reduce geological uncertainty and minimise safety, health and environmental risks.

Geophysicists study the composition, structure and other physical attributes of the earth. They locate mineral deposits and detect, monitor and forecast seismic, magnetic, electrical, thermal and oceanographic activity, identifying potential environmental hazards. They also evaluate sites to determine if proposed projects are suitable and safe for mining, construction and related activities.

Geophysicists work independently or as part of a geoscience team, engaging with varied professionals. They can work in a variety of en-vironments including the field doing earth studies, laboratories and an office environment for report writing.

SKILLS

Geophysicists need an excellent understanding of physical science in relation to earth systems and processes, coupled with:

• knowledge of the laws and regulations for mineral exploration
• ability to model various scenarios and test hypotheses
• strong analytical and problem-solving ability
• project management competence

TASKS

• estimate the weight, size and mass of the earth and the composition and structure of its interior
• study and measure physical properties and their interrelationships
• locate and determine the nature and extent of earth resources
• conduct research and improve or develop concepts, theories and operational methods

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Geology specialising in Geophysics at Wits
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Physics at all universities
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Geology at NMU, NWU, RU, SU, UCT, UFH, UFS, UJ, UKZN, UL, UP, UWC and Wits

EMPLOYERS

• National, provincial and local government.
• Research institutions.
• Construction and mining companies.
• Private consultancies.

Mining is a key contributor to the national economy, GDP and employ-ment in South Africa. Mining activities however, impact significantly on land use change, and particularly impact the quality and quantity of groundwater. Hydrogeology examines the distribution and movement of groundwater in the soil and rocks of the earth’s crust, to better un-derstand potential impact and access to these water sources.

Hydrogeologists investigate the occurrence and exploration oppor-tunities and challenges of groundwater according to geographical formations, surface water flow and man-made influences. They study and collect data on the flow and quality of groundwater systems and model future behaviour and impacts on aquifer systems. They can also advise on the decision-making processes for aquifer subdivisions, rivers and irrigation strategies ensuring compliance with environmen-tal legislation.

Hydrogeologists can liaise with environmental engineers, ecologists and other professionals in investigating groundwater systems. They typically work between on-site locations, assessing water systems and geological structures of interest, and a laboratory and office environ-ment.

SKILLS

Hydrogeologists need to have an extensive knowledge of geological characteristics and groundwater principles and can further benefit from an understanding of water policies and regulations, and:

• excellent research capabilities
• analytical with excellent critical thinking skills
• strong problem-solving ability
• good verbal and written communication and presentation skills

TASKS

• assess sites and perform and analyse groundwater sampling
• create, test and interpret prediction models and maps
• undertake environmental impact assessments and create remedia-tion project plans
• advise and support compliance with regulations, laws and standards

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Geology specialising in Hydrogeology at UFS, UP and Wits
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Hydrology at NWU, UKZN, Univen and Unizulu

EMPLOYERS

• National, provincial and local government.
• Research institutions.
• Mining and construction companies.

Valuable minerals and materials such as coal, platinum, gold, diamonds, chrome, vanadium and titanium are available in the South African land-scape. A wide range of products are produced from these minerals and materials, especially in the evolving technological revolution. To sup-port sustainability, materials engineering comprises of the study and design of new materials made from natural or man-made materials.

Materials engineers plan and direct the engineering and commercial application of materials, manufacturing processes, products and re-lated technologies. They evaluate the properties and structures of all materials and make recommendations for the most appropriate use. They can test a product’s quality and endurance, identify potential faults and develop solutions. Some can design processing plants and equipment to enable the manufacture of new materials.

Materials engineers can collaborate with plant designers and other engineering professionals in enabling the correct design and manu-facture of new materials. They can work in research and development laboratories, office environments or in a supervisory role in production plants.

SKILLS

A deep knowledge of chemical and material properties is needed by materials engineers and an understanding of engineering modelling and design. They will also benefit from:

• ability to conceptualise abstract ideas
• strong problem-solving ability
• excellent analytical competence
• good verbal and written communication and presentation skills

TASKS

• conduct and supervise tests on raw materials or finished products to ensure quality
• monitor material performance and evaluate material deterioration
• evaluate technical specifications and economic factors relating to process or product design objectives
• analyse product failure data and test results

STUDIES

• B.Sc.Eng. in Metallurgical Engineering at Wits
• B.Eng. in Metallurgical Engineering at UP
• Diploma, Advanced Diploma, M.Tech in Metallurgical Engineer at TUT, UJ and VUT

EMPLOYERS

• Research institutions.
• Plastic, computer and electronic, ceramic, glass and steel product manufacturers.

South Africa possesses large reserves of chromium, iron, uranium, platinum, vanadium, titanium, lead, zinc, manganese and many other metals used in the production of goods. Most of these mineral reserves are found in ores that are complex in nature. To extract these useful metals from the ore, research is necessary to ensure efficient and sus-tainable processes of mineral extraction and production. Metallurgy involves the investigation, purification and production of mined metals.

Metallurgists research and design methods to separate metals from ore and process them into valuable products. They test ores to de-termine the best way to recover metals efficiently and effectively and oversee processes of extracting metals from ore. They also produce commercial metal products through casting, alloying, heat treating or welding refined metals, alloys and other materials, amongst others. Some might also focus on identifying changes in metal under particu-lar conditions and investigate where and why metallurgical failure has occurred.

Metallurgists can work with mining engineers, geologists and other geophysical specialists around the mining of metals. They can work in a laboratory, metal treatment plant, refinery, mining sites or manufactur-ing production plants shaping metals to create new products.

SKILLS

Metallurgists require a thorough understanding of the physical and chemical properties of metals, compounds and alloys. They will further benefit from:

• strong mathematical and engineering competence
• excellent analytical and problem-solving ability
• critical thinking around design and processing techniques
• sound attention to detail

TASKS

• conduct research and investigate metal and alloy properties
• design processes and methods for metal extraction and alloying
• test and develop the manufacture and processing of metal products
• compile reports to advise on process performance and shortcomings

STUDIES

• B.Eng. in Metallurgical Engineering at UP
• B.Sc.Eng. in Metallurgical Engineering at Wits
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Chemistry at all universities
• Diploma, Advanced Diploma, M.Tech in Metallurgical Engineer at TUT, UJ and VUT

EMPLOYERS

• Metal, iron and steel manufacturing companies.
• Metal ore mining companies.
• Research institutions.

South Africa’s mining industry makes a significant contribution of around 8.2% to the national economy through extraction, processing and export of, amongst others manganese, platinum, gold, diamonds and chromite ore. Extraction of materials and minerals is costly, dangerous, particularly in the case of underground mining and blasting and impacts the environment and land use. Mine engineering supports efficient and safe systems and processes of mineral extraction to minimise environmental and social risk.

Mining engineers plan and direct the engineering aspects of locating, extracting, processing and transporting materials and minerals from the earth. They assess the feasibility, safety and productivity of new mine sites, highlighting potential extraction, economic and environmental risks. They then design the mine and develop and implement relevant systems, machinery and equipment needed, continuously monitoring and evaluating operational performance. Some assist in the selection and training of miners and ensure they follow strict health and safety precautions.

Mining engineers consult with geologists, geophysicists, economists and other professionals when evaluating and planning mines and mining operations. They work between an office environment and visiting mine sites to assess the effectiveness of designs and operations.

SKILLS

Mining engineers require a strong and practical understanding of the application of mine engineering principles, engineering modelling and design, coupled with:

• logical and creative problem-solving ability
• grasp of mine safety, health and environmental regulations
• strong project and organisation management
• good verbal and written communication skills

TASKS

• examine deposits or mines to evaluate profitability and risk
• develop mine designs and systems needed for extraction
• design and implement suitable methods and equipment for extraction
• establish operation safety standards and procedures

STUDIES

• B.Sc.Eng. in Mining Engineering at Wits
• B.Eng. in Mining Engineering at UP
• Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Mine Engineering at UNISA

EMPLOYERS

• National, provincial and local government.
• Mining companies.
• Mine equipment manufacturers.
• Research institutions.
• Private consultancies.

South Africa’s mining industry makes a significant contribution of around 8.2% to the national economy through extraction, processing and export of, amongst others manganese, platinum, gold, diamonds and chromite ore. Extraction of materials and minerals is costly, dangerous, particularly in the case of underground mining and blasting and impacts the environment and land use. Mine engineering supports efficient and safe systems and processes of mineral extraction to minimise environmental and social risk.

Mining engineers plan and direct the engineering aspects of locating, extracting, processing and transporting materials and minerals from the earth. They assess the feasibility, safety and productivity of new mine sites, highlighting potential extraction, economic and environ-mental risks. They then design the mine and develop and implement relevant systems, machinery and equipment needed, continuously monitoring and evaluating operational performance. Some assist in the selection and training of miners and ensure they follow strict health and safety precautions.

Mining engineers consult with geologists, geophysicists, economists and other professionals when evaluating and planning mines and mining operations. They work between an office environment and visiting mine sites to assess the effectiveness of designs and operations.

SKILLS

Mining engineers require a strong and practical understanding of the application of mine engineering principles, engineering modelling and design, coupled with:

• logical and creative problem-solving ability
• grasp of mine safety, health and environmental regulations
• strong project and organisation management
• good verbal and written communication skills

TASKS

• examine deposits or mines to evaluate profitability and risk
• develop mine designs and systems needed for extraction
• design and implement suitable methods and equipment for extraction
• establish operation safety standards and procedures

STUDIES

• B.Sc.Eng. in Mining Engineering at Wits
• B.Eng. in Mining Engineering at UP
• Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Mine Engineering at UNISA

EMPLOYERS

• National, provincial and local government.
• Mining companies.
• Mine equipment manufacturers.
• Research institutions.
• Private consultancies.

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 provide technical assistance and research around location, extraction, transportation and equipment used in the extraction of minerals and metals. They conduct topographical surveys and collect and prepare rock samples to determine chemical and physical properties to inform the most efficient extraction of minerals. They also monitor the use of equipment and assist in enforcing strict occupational health, safety and environmental regulations.

Mining technicians assist mining engineers, metallurgists, production supervisors and other professionals with mineral exploration pro-cesses. They work above and below ground under dangerous working conditions and occasionally work in a laboratory environment to test mineral samples.

SKILLS

Mining technicians need an extensive and sound knowledge of rock and mineral characteristics, physical properties and extraction pro-cesses and procedures. They will also benefit from:

• ability to research and conduct land surveys
• grasp of mine health, safety and environmental regulations
• good problem-solving and analytical skills
• physical stamina and endurance to withstand harsh work conditions

TASKS

• 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

STUDIES

• B.Sc.Eng. in Mining Engineering at Wits
• B.Eng. in Mining Engineering at UP
• Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Mining Engineering at UNISA

EMPLOYERS

• National, provincial and local government.
• Mining companies.

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 provide technical assistance and research around location, extraction, transportation and equipment used in the extraction of minerals and metals. They conduct topographical surveys and collect and prepare rock samples to determine chemical and physical properties to inform the most efficient extraction of minerals. They also monitor the use of equipment and assist in enforcing strict occupational health, safety and environmental regulations.

Mining technicians assist mining engineers, metallurgists, production supervisors and other professionals with mineral exploration pro-cesses. They work above and below ground under dangerous working conditions and occasionally work in a laboratory environment to test mineral samples.

SKILLS

Mining technicians need an extensive and sound knowledge of rock and mineral characteristics, physical properties and extraction pro-cesses and procedures. They will also benefit from:

• ability to research and conduct land surveys
• grasp of mine health, safety and environmental regulations
• good problem-solving and analytical skills
• physical stamina and endurance to withstand harsh work conditions

TASKS

• 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

STUDIES

• B.Sc.Eng. in Mining Engineering at Wits
• B.Eng. in Mining Engineering at UP
• Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Mining Engineering at UNISA

EMPLOYERS

• National, provincial and local government.
• Mining companies.

The South African mining industry employs around 450 000 people and contributes approximately 8.2% to the national economy. The nature of mining is potentially highly dangerous. Good health and safety is critical to managing a wide range of hazards and risks. Health and safety within mines, coupled with strict monitoring of health and safety regulations is essential to ensuring the health and wellbeing of miners and sustainability of employers to secure jobs and livelihoods.

Occupational health and safety advisors develop, implement and evaluate risk management policies and programmes. They conduct environmental impact assessments and observe employee safety practices and proceed to develop methods to minimise environmen-tal impact and ensure employee safety. They also instruct and train employees in safety procedures and investigate potential incidents to highlight challenges in current safety plans.

Occupational health and safety advisors work closely with a company’s personnel to ensure a safe and healthy work environment. They often travel to sites of inspection, returning to an office to evaluate the work-ing conditions of an operation.

SKILLS

Occupational health and safety advisors require a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of environmental and health and safety requirements, standards and regulations, along with:

• critical problem-solving and analytical competence
• good organisational skills and keen attention to detail
• strong interpersonal skills
• good verbal and written communication and presentation skills

TASKS

• conduct risk assessments and investigate particular incidents of concern
• develop internal strategies, polices and occupational procedures
• advise on and implement safe occupational practices
• train and monitor personnel on working operations and procedures

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Environmental Health at UP
• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Environmental Management at UFS, UJ, UNISA and UP
• B.Sc. in Environmental Health at NMU and UJ
• Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Environmental Health at CPUT, CUT, MUT and TUT

EMPLOYERS

• National, provincial and local government.
• Mining companies.
• Manufacturing and construction companies.
• Power generation plants.
• Private consultancies.

South Africa is rich in geological resources with a unique set of geological environments. These contain metamorphic, igneous and sedimentary rocks containing precious sources of natural gas, water, metals and minerals amongst others. These rock types not only hold valuable resources but can also offer insight into how the climate and landscape changes over time. The examination of individual rocks and their properties through petrology, can help guide the safe extraction of resources and determine areas in need of conservation.

Petrologists examine rocks to determine their exact composition and can identify the best means to extract the minerals and resources within. They observe and collect samples from rock structures and conduct detailed analyses on its geochemical, geological and geo-physical properties. They develop geological maps and reports and advise on rock protection strategies or can assist in the development of efficient extraction methods. Some create detailed records used to identify changing climate and geomorphological patterns.

Petrologists work predominately in the field around rock formations and structures to collect data, returning to a laboratory to classify and analyse rock findings. They work with other geological professionals and can liaise with mining engineers in the operationalisation of mines.

SKILLS

Petrologists require a comprehensive understanding of the character-istics and chemical compositions of rocks and the varied forces shaping the earth surfaces. They will also benefit from:

• extensive research, field and laboratory competence
• geological modelling and mapping ability
• strong analytical and observation skills
• good verbal and written communication and presentation skills

TASKS

• locate and map the nature of varied resource deposits
• collect and test samples to determine composition, structure and genesis of rocks and minerals
• record genetic classification of rocks and reconstruct geological history
• report findings and advise on economic exploitation and composition of rocks

STUDIES

• B.Sc., B.Sc. (Hons), M.Sc. in Geology specialising in Petrology at NMU, NWU, RU, SU, UCT, UFH, UFS, UJ, UKZN, UL, UP, UWC and Wits
• B., M. in Mining and Environmental Geology at Univen
• Diploma, Advanced Diploma, M.Tech in Geology at TUT

EMPLOYERS

• Research institutions.
• Mining companies.
• Museums.
• Private consultancies.

South Africa is rich in a variety of minerals and materials with reserves of diamonds, gold, iron ore, platinum, manganese, chromium and copper amongst others, which are accessed through complex under-ground mining extraction processes. The stability of rocks during and after excavations is a key risk factor for the biophysical environment, surrounding communities and the health and safety of workers. By understanding the properties of rock, the design of safe and stable excavations in mining is made possible.

Rock engineering managers plan, organise, direct, control and coordinate rock engineering and related functions to ensure safe and optimal extraction of ore reserves. They locate and evaluate an excavation site and determine the equipment, personnel and budget needed to safely extract all potential minerals. They also supervise extraction processes and advise on equipment, maintenance or upgrades as well as personnel health and safety procedures.

Rock engineering managers liaise with geologists, geophysicists, mine planners, mining engineers and other professionals to determine the best means to extract materials. They predominately work on mine sites, returning to an office to evaluate and plan excavation processes.

SKILLS

Rock engineering managers need an understanding of rock mechanics and the forces that shape them and experience in effective mineral extraction techniques, coupled with:

• risk management and business experience
• excellent analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
• grasp of mining, safety, health and environmental regulations
• good interpersonal and communication skills

TASKS

• evaluate and plan extraction sites, establishing budgets, production quotas and other requirements
• control the operation of plant and quality procedures
• oversee the acquisition and installation of new plant and equipment
• oversee the selection, training and performance of personnel

STUDIES

• B.Sc. Eng. in Mining Engineering at Wits
• B.Eng. in Mining Engineering at UP
• Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Mine Engineering at UNISA
• Rock engineering managers can also benefit from a Chamber of Mines Rock Mechanics Certificate offered by UNISA, accredited by the South African National Institute for Rock Engineering.

EMPLOYERS

• National government.
• Mining companies.
• Mine equipment manufacturers.
• Private consultancies.