How to become a mining engineer
Plan and direct the engineering aspects of locating and extracting minerals, petroleum and natural gas from the earth.
Pathways to this career
Mining engineers must have a bachelor degree in engineering, majoring in mining or geotechnical engineering.
Boost your profile as a mining engineer by studying a postgraduate degree, and gain higher level management roles.
Apply for a graduate position or entry level role and work 2-3 years before progressing to a professional mining engineer classification.
Industry licensing and registration may be a requirement in your state. For information on eligibility and how to apply, contact the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.
What does a mining engineer do?
Mining Engineers direct the engineering aspects of the mining process. They coordinate the finding and extracting of minerals, petroleum, and natural gas.
Duties and tasks
Conduct preliminary surveys of mineral, petroleum and natural gas deposits
Prepare operation and project costs and production schedules
Determine the most suitable methods of ore extraction
Preparing plans and supervise construction of tunnels and chambers, location and construction of mine shafts
Prepare technical reports for miners, engineers and managers
Assess the natural, technical, financial and safety risks of project operations
Planning and coordinating labour and equipment to meet targets, statutes, safety guidelines and environmental conditions
Provide solutions to problems related to land reclamation, water and air pollution, and sustainability
Industry bodies
Association of Professional Engineers, Scientists and Managers Australia
Engineers Australia is the national forum for the advancement of engineering
Related jobs
Discover engineering courses
Associate Degree in Engineering
UndergraduateADU-ADE-ADG
Build a strong foundation in engineering to get you started
Study engineering principles – based on maths, physics, and design. You’ll explore civil, mechanical, electrical, and mechatronics. Gain experience with industry software. Graduate work-ready or choose further study to become a fully qualified engineer.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 2 years full time or part time equivalent
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
UndergraduateSCU-ENS-DEG
Become a professional and accredited engineer
This engineering degree unpacks the maths and science engineers need to solve complex engineering problems. Choose to specialise in civil or mechanical engineering. 60 days of industry placement develops your professional conduct and judgement.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 4 years full time or part time equivalent
Graduate Certificate in Engineering Science
PostgraduateUOQ-FSE-GCE
Explore a fast-growing discipline in engineering
Add to your engineering expertise with this introductory postgraduate course. Understand how fire behaves within different structures and what codes and practices need to be followed during the design process to prevent disaster.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 6 months full time or part time equivalent
Associate Degree of Engineering
UndergraduateSCU-ENG-DEG
Engineering skills for work in civil construction, manufacturing, and production
Break into the engineering field as an engineering associate. Delve into engineering technologies and materials. You’ll learn to use maths and physics for problem-solving. Get to know compliance. Specialise in civil construction or intelligent machines.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 2 years full time or part time equivalent
Need help making study choices for your career?
Need help making study choices for your career?
Our student advisors will turn your aspirations into a clear study path.
They'll help you with:
Choosing and enrolling in the right course for your desired career, including pathway options.
Mapping a study plan that allows you to balance work and home commitments.
Understanding eligibility for funding, including HECS-HELP loans.
Get unbiased advice at no cost today.
Looking for other ways to start the conversation? Contact us
Step up your career with these resources
What do engineers actually do?
Interested in engineering, but not sure what a career in the field looks like? From working on the Great Barrier Reef to designing equipment for use in Antarctica, two professionals tell all.
Jobs that pay 100k a year in Australia
From psych to construction to comms, there are plenty of high-paying industries out there. Here are some of your best bets if you want to make at least $100k in Australia.
Life in plastic: 4 ways you can work in the toy industry
Has all the hype around the Barbie movie inspired your inner toy inventor? Because there are plenty of ways you can establish a career in Australia’s toy industry.
How to find civil engineering internships in Australia
Want to stand out from the crowd when commencing your civil engineering career? Consider an internship.