Robbie Clemons, Mine Service Worker
Underground mine service worker is an entry-level position in the mines. Completion of secondary school is usually required. Employers may ask for previous formal training of up to six weeks and mine experience. Mines usually offer on-the-job training for these positions.
Service workers such as Robbie perform a variety of duties including operating and maintaining ore chutes or conveyor systems to control flow of sand, ore and rock in an underground mine. They may operate construction equipment such as bulldozer, grader or backhoe to build and maintain underground passages and haulage ways. They may attach and extend ventilation and water pipes and related mine service jobs, such as supplying and maintaining backfill distribution of sand, rock or other materials.
Robbie completed his GED as a requirement to qualify for his job, and has had ongoing training since he started in this position. He had several weeks of training above ground before starting work underground.
Find out more about careers in mining in Canada by going to Explore for More, a website produced by the Mining Industry Human Resources Council.