Underground Roof Bolter

Your Fit

Income

$58K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-28.5%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is an Underground Roof Bolter?

An Underground Roof Bolter operates machinery to install roof support bolts in underground mines, ensuring the stability and safety of mine roofs. This role is crucial in preventing cave-ins and maintaining the structural integrity of mining operations.

Sample job titles:

Bolter, Roof Bolter, Roof Bolter Operator, Underground Roof Bolter

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Underground Roof Bolter.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does an Underground Roof Bolter earn

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2024 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Underground Roof Bolter.

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$44K per year	$52K per year	$58K per year	$69K per year	$81K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $6.76K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does an Underground Roof Bolter do?

Work environment

Underground Roof Bolters work in the confined and often hazardous environments of underground mines. The job involves operating heavy machinery in low-light conditions and requires a strong commitment to safety protocols. Work schedules can be long and may include irregular hours, with a significant amount of time spent in enclosed underground spaces.

Quick task list

Operates roof bolting machinery to install support systems in mines.
Conducts pre-operation checks and routine maintenance on bolting equipment.
Collaborates with other mining personnel to plan and execute bolting operations.
Monitors the stability of mine roofs and reports potential hazards.
Adheres to and promotes rigorous safety standards and practices.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Coal Mining Roof Bolting: Specializing in roof bolting in coal mining operations.
Metal and Nonmetal Mining Roof Bolting: Working in mines extracting metals and other non-coal materials.
Automated Bolting Technology: Operating advanced, automated roof bolting machinery.
Safety Compliance and Training: Focusing on safety procedures and training new bolters.

Description

An Underground Roof Bolter plays a vital role in the mining industry, directly impacting the safety and efficiency of underground mining operations. The job requires a deep understanding of geological formations, mining operations, and the specific mechanics of roof bolting machinery. Precision and attention to detail are critical, as incorrect installation of bolts can lead to severe consequences.

This occupation demands physical stamina and mental focus, as working conditions can be strenuous and challenging. Roof Bolters must be adept at problem-solving, often needing to make quick decisions to adapt to changing conditions underground. Effective communication and teamwork are also crucial, as roof bolting is typically carried out in coordination with other mining activities.

Continuous learning and adaptation are important in this field. As mining technology evolves, Roof Bolters need to stay updated with the latest equipment and safety practices. There are also opportunities for career advancement, often moving into supervisory or training roles within mining operations.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Playing a critical role in ensuring the safety of mining operations.
The challenge and responsibility of operating specialized machinery.
Opportunities for skill development and advancement within the mining industry.

You might make a good Underground Roof Bolter if you are...

Comfortable working in enclosed and underground environments.
Mechanically inclined and skilled in operating heavy machinery.
Detail-oriented, with a strong focus on safety and precision.
Physically fit and able to handle demanding work conditions.
A team player who can communicate effectively and work collaboratively.

Pros:

Essential role in a critical industry.
Opportunities for high earnings and overtime.
Job security in areas with active mining operations.

Cons:

Physically demanding and potentially hazardous work conditions.
Risk of exposure to dust, noise, and confined spaces.
Irregular work hours and possible extended periods away from home.

How to become an Underground Roof Bolter

Typical education

Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Most of the necessary skills and safety knowledge are acquired through on-the-job training. Some workers may also complete vocational training programs in mining or heavy machinery operation.

High school preparation

Courses:

Shop classes or vocational training in mechanics and heavy machinery.
Mathematics and physics to understand the principles involved in machinery operation.
Physical Education to build stamina and physical fitness.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in team sports for physical conditioning.
Joining technical clubs, such as robotics, to develop mechanical skills.
Volunteering in community service projects that involve manual labor.

Preparation after high school

Vocational training or apprenticeships in mining technology or heavy equipment operation.
Certification programs in mine safety and machinery operation.
On-the-job training and mentorship programs in mining companies.

More resources

Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) - Offers training and safety guidelines specific to the mining industry.
National Mining Association (NMA) - Provides resources and information about the mining industry.
Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME) - A professional society offering education, networking, and resources for mining professionals.
Center for Advanced Mining and Metallurgy - Offers advanced training and research opportunities in mining technology and operations.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.