Description
Operate a self-propelled continuous mining machine to cut and gather coal, metal, or nonmetal ore from the face and load material onto conveyors, shuttle cars, or trucks in a continuous operation.
- • Operate continuous mining machines to cut material and load it to conveyors or shuttle cars.
- • Determine cut locations, boundaries, and depths from plans and markings.
- • Position and reposition the machine for additional cuts.
- • Drive the machine into position at the working face.
- • Start, stop, and regulate conveyors and cutting heads using controls.
- • Monitor gauges, sounds, and vibrations to detect binding, jams, or malfunctions.
- • Perform routine maintenance, oil and adjust components, and replace cutting teeth with hand tools.
- • Raise and lower hydraulic roof supports or safety bars as needed.
- • Install temporary casings or supports to prevent cave-ins.
- • Assist crews with laying track, resetting supports, and blocking.
- • Implement dust control and environmental practices, including water sprays.
- • Clean belts and conveyors with scrapers or washers to reduce dust.
- • Install and maintain ventilation tubing and curtains at the face.
- • Conduct methane and air quality checks.
- • Inspect roof and rib support systems for stability before mining.
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
