Roof bolters in mining are responsible for securing the roofs and walls of underground mines to prevent collapses. Their job description typically includes: 1. Installing roof bolts, which are long anchor bolts used to support the roof rock. 2. Operating machinery to drill holes in the roof or walls for the bolts. 3. Inserting and securing bolts in place using various tools and equipment. 4. Ensuring that all safety protocols and regulations are followed during the bolting process. 5. Inspecting roofs and walls for potential hazards and determining the appropriate bolting strategy. 6. Collaborating with other mining personnel to maintain a safe working environment. 7. Maintaining and repairing equipment as needed. 8. Documenting work activities and reporting any issues to supervisors. Overall, roof bolters play a crucial role in ensuring the stability and safety of underground mining operations.
This income data is sourced from the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. The dataset is updated annually.
Annual Pay Distribution | Salary |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $63,690.00 |
25th percentile | $63,690.00 |
median (50th percentile) | $77,100.00 |
75th percentile | $78,030.00 |
90th percentile | $78,910.00 |
Hourly Pay Distribution | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $30.62 |
25th percentile | $30.62 |
median (50th percentile) | $37.07 |
75th percentile | $37.51 |
90th percentile | $37.94 |
Roof bolters in mining typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, though some employers may require additional education such as vocational training or an associate degree in a related field. High school coursework in subjects like math, science, and technical education can be beneficial for this role. On-the-job training is usually provided to familiarize workers with safety protocols, equipment operation, and specific mining techniques. While formal education beyond high school is not always mandatory, completing relevant certification programs or courses can enhance job prospects and advancement opportunities in this field. Training for roof bolters in mining often involves a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience. New workers typically undergo safety training to understand the risks associated with mining activities and learn about industry regulations. They receive practical training on how to operate drilling equipment, install roof bolts, secure mine shafts, and maintain a safe working environment. Additionally, they may shadow experienced roof bolters to gain insights into best practices and techniques specific to different mining environments. Ongoing training is common to keep workers abreast of updated safety procedures and technological advancements in mining practices.