Mine Manager

• Maintain and encourage a positive safety and environment culture at all times
• Lead the mine operations management team and manage all mining personnel and resources
• Prepare and implement operational plans for the mine, and monitor and report progress
• Propose capital expenditure projects to expand capacity or improve operations
• Prepare production and operating budgets, and monitor and report performance and costs
• Recognize and anticipate operational, technical and safety challenges, take action to prevent or overcome them, and seek continuous improvement
• Contribute to business planning and company strategy to improve competitiveness, profitability and growth
• Engage with local communities and regulatory authorities to promote company policies
• Work closely with maintenance department to ensure continuous, safe, efficient operations
• Collaborate with other management colleagues and corporate executives to achieve overall business objectives
• Oversee new projects, such as installing new mining equipment or opening a new shaft
• Oversee the recruitment and development of superintendents, supervisors, and operators, providing support, encouragement, advice and guidance to build an effective workforce
• Manage relations with trade unions

Mine Managers are paid on an annual basis. Depending on factors such as the location of the mine and the type of mineral or metal produced, annual salaries range from $90,000 - $295,000 (CostMine, 2014). In addition, Mine Managers often receive other benefits.

In general, people are drawn to a career in the mining industry for the rewarding work, as well as the opportunity to apply their skills in the workplace. The compensation is attractive as is the structured work schedule which allows for personal pursuits and professional development.

The people who are attracted to this job are highly motivated to take on a very senior position with a high level of responsibility and challenging work, covering many different aspects of management. They appreciate the opportunity to lead large teams of people, contribute to the business management and act as an ambassador for the industry. They also like working with other executives and the community at large.

Note: conditions vary according to employer and region.

As a Mine Manager you will be based in an office in the mine site, and you will spend some of your time in the mine. You will also chair internal meetings and participate in other management meetings.

Safety is the top priority in the mining industry and employers take every precaution to create a safe workplace. All mine employees observe strict health and safety rules and wear personal protective equipment (e.g. safety glasses, respirator, steel-toed boots, hard hats, ear protection, etc.). This equipment also reduces the risks that come with exposure to various environmental conditions, extreme temperatures and hazards.

Working hours vary considerably from mine to mine. You might have standard weekday working hours or shift work that involves evening and/or weekend work. Overtime is generally not required but you may have opportunities to work overtime in return for extra compensation.

Some mines are located near communities, which would enable you to live at home and commute to work. These mining communities tend to be close-knit, with strong friendships forming among co-workers and their families. Because these communities are often small towns, they provide wonderful opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and hiking.

Many mines are situated in remote areas and require most employees to live in a mining camp. In these mines, employees usually work on a “fly-in, fly-out” schedule. When on-site, all of your living expenses would be covered, including meals. Trained chefs and kitchen staff generally prepare meals and some camps provide accommodations for dietary restrictions and preferences.

Some camps are fairly basic, while others are well-equipped with gym, recreation, and internet facilities. Many camps provide a variety of training courses including language, yoga and First Aid. Fishing and hiking may or may not be permitted, depending on local regulations, licence requirements, and environmental considerations. Firearms are not permitted in mining camps.

Common traits that successful Mine Managers share are:

• Ability to delegate work to achieve results
• Ability to earn and maintain respect by demonstrating credibility and integrity
• Ability to influence people at all levels
• Ability to make and implement difficult decisions, and communicate the reasons for them
• Ability to overcome difficulties and solve problems with a positive attitude
• Accountable for decisions and actions
• Ambitious
• Cooperative
• Have a deep interest in the wider business aspects of the industry
• Have a deep level of understanding and respect for legislation, regulations and procedures, concerning, safety, employment and environmental protection
• Maintain positive working relations with trade unions
• Operational leadership experience
• Organized and a critical thinker
• Responsible
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
• Strong computer skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Strong risk management skills
• Team player
• Technical and operational expertise
• Works well under pressure

Many of these traits can be developed. If you are interested in following this career path, first determine your strengths and weaknesses, and set goals in order to develop the traits you need to succeed.

Many employers want to help job seekers build a successful and fulfilling career. Here are some ways that the mining industry may support you:

• Offer job placements, training and mentoring
• Welcome applicants with experience in other industries and countries
• Have incentives to attract women and Aboriginal peoples to mining education, training and employment
• Offer parental leave, housing incentives, or flexible schedules
• Provide professional development programs to support you and to develop career progression options

Note: this table reflects what is required at the time of hire. The requirements listed below illustrate what it takes to start the career and does not take into account on-the-job training given to new employees.

Fixed Requirements

• Post-secondary degree in mining or engineering
• Knowledge and experience in the mining industry
• Minimum of five years of experience in a leadership position, including in operations activities
• Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheet, email and presentation software
• Must be able to pass a medical test
• Must be able to pass a drug test
• Willingness to lead in a diverse environment
• Proficiency in language of operation

Regional Requirements

• Bilingual French and English (Quebec and NB)

Assets

• Post-secondary degree in business or management, or a relevant Master’s degree
• Willingness to relocate
• Other languages