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Mineral Processing Operator

Mineral processing operators use equipment to process mineral ores until the final form or a concentrate is produced.

Commonly processed minerals include gold, silver, nickel and iron ore.

Mineral-bearing ore is subjected to various processes to extract the minerals.

The ore is first crushed, then processing equipment (such as screens, grinding mills, filters, flotation cells, tanks and conveyors) is used to extract concentrated minerals.

At the end of the treatment process the minerals may be produced into their final form by smelting, or as a bulk concentrate in preparation for shipment from site.

Mineral processing operators can be involved in all aspects of mineral processing, including sampling and laboratory work.

They often work in remote areas that are dusty, hot and noisy.

Mineral processing operators work in teams, and shiftwork may be involved.

TASKS

Mineral processing operators may perform the following tasks:

assemble and dismantle equipment and fittings in ore-processing plants
operate ore-crushing and screening plants using manual and computer-based systems, conveyers, feeders, weight-meters, grinding mills, pumps, jigs, spirals and flotation cells
load, unload and store materials such as treatment chemicals and tools
mix ore-treating chemicals, catalysts and reagents
supply and control molten metal in furnaces
clear blockages in materials-handling and transporting equipment
clean, wash and maintain equipment, and remove spillages and rubbish
maintain auxiliary systems, such as drainage, fluid-pouring and conveyor-belt systems
take samples of materials for testing
use thickeners in the treatment processes, pump tailings and manage tailings dams and associated raw-water systems
monitor the operation of plant and equipment and ensure the safety of other workers

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy practical and manual activities
able to cope with the physical demands of the job
resourceful
safety-conscious
mechanical aptitude

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

You can work as a mineral processing operator without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

You can also become a mineral processing operator through a traineeship in Resource Processing.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Resources and Infrastructure Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Mineral processing operators are employed by mining companies, industrial mineral companies and quarries. employment opportunities for mineral processing operators depend on the level of activity in the mining and minerals industries, and the technological advancements in mineral processing. There is a trend towards multiskilling, such as combining processing and maintenance skills.