Mining & Resources

Mining Support Worker

SOC 47-5099 · ESCO 9311 · OSCA 821933

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Role snapshot

Overview

Performs a range of manual tasks underground or at open-cut mines, including operating basic machinery, loading materials, and maintaining haul roads and work areas. This role is crucial for ensuring the smooth and safe operation of mining activities, often involving physical labor, equipment operation, and strict adherence to safety protocols.

Ensures the operational efficiency and safety of mining sites by performing essential manual and machinery-assisted tasks, directly contributing to resource extraction and site maintenance.

On the job

  • Operate basic heavy machinery such as skid steers, forkllifts, and light vehicles.
  • Load and unload materials, supplies, and equipment using appropriate methods.
  • Maintain haul roads, work areas, and general site cleanliness according to standards.
  • Assist skilled tradespersons and operators with various tasks, including repairs and installations.
  • Conduct routine safety checks on equipment and work environments to identify and report hazards.
Mining Support Worker at work

Tools & technology

ShovelsPicksHand toolsLight vehiclesSkid steersForkliftsPPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

Average salary

$60K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$45K Bottom 10%
$75K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

Completion of secondary education or vocational training, with specific safety certifications required for mine site access.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior Mining Support Worker
Heavy Equipment Operator
Mine Site Supervisor

CURRENT ROLE

Mining Support Worker

Mining & Resources

ADJACENT MOVES

Driller
General Labourer
Construction Worker
Farm Hand

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

R

realistic · RCI

People who enjoy practical, hands-on work, prefer clear procedures and organised tasks, and have a curiosity for how things work in a structured, physical environment tend to thrive in this role.

Personality characteristics

Conscientious

Follows safety procedures diligently, prioritizes compliance, and completes tasks reliably to maintain operational standards.

Resilient

Handles challenging physical conditions, demanding schedules, and potential hazards calmly and effectively.

Practical

Prefers hands-on tasks, working with equipment, and seeing tangible results of their physical efforts.

Cooperative

Works effectively as part of a team, supporting colleagues and contributing to shared goals in a high-stakes environment.

Methodical

Approaches tasks systematically, ensuring efficiency and safety by adhering to established protocols and sequences.

Best for

  • Individuals who enjoy physical work in an industrial and highly structured environment.
  • Those who thrive in settings with clear safety guidelines and a strong emphasis on teamwork.
  • Reliable and committed team players who are dedicated to operational efficiency and safety.

Watch out for

  • Demanding physical conditions, including exposure to dust, noise, and varying temperatures.
  • Shift work and regular weekend hours are common, requiring flexibility in personal scheduling.
  • Strict adherence to rules and procedures may limit opportunities for creative problem-solving or autonomy.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Mining Support Worker — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Pre-shift safety briefing
Equipment pre-checks & minor maintenance
Haul road inspection & minor repairs
Material loading & transport
Tue
Pre-shift safety briefing
Assisting drilling crew with setup/cleanup
Underground ventilation checks
Transporting supplies to work faces
Wed
Pre-shift safety briefing
General site cleanup & waste management
Operating skid steer for material movement
Equipment fueling & minor servicing
Thu
Pre-shift safety briefing
Haul road grading & dust suppression
Inventory of consumables
Assisting maintenance team with heavy lifting
Fri
Pre-shift safety briefing
End-of-week site inspection
Equipment wash-down & storage
Shift handover & reporting
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

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