Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers
Mining and geological engineers assess underground sites to determine if they're suitable for mining or construction. They design extraction methods and safety systems to protect workers and the environment. This work takes place at mining operations, construction sites, engineering firms, and government agencies.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against mining and geological engineers, including mining safety engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week includes conducting subsurface surveys using drilling and testing equipment, analyzing geological data in the office, writing reports on site conditions, and inspecting active mining or construction areas for safety compliance. Engineers may spend several days at remote project sites examining rock formations and soil stability, then return to the office to design support systems and create documentation for regulatory approval.
Who this work suits
Holland code RIC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy solving concrete problems by gathering and analyzing technical data—that investigative mindset drives the work. You're drawn to hands-on fieldwork combined with technical problem-solving, and you're comfortable taking responsibility for safety-critical decisions in underground environments.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $122,120 | $158,130 | $169,770 | 520 |
| Oklahoma | $102,960 | $131,660 | $132,580 | 90 |
| Utah | $108,170 | $125,520 | $142,160 | 230 |
| Alaska | $98,870 | $124,630 | $141,080 | 300 |
| Idaho | $100,520 | $123,680 | $124,540 | 110 |
| Wyoming | $112,150 | $119,010 | $156,510 | 210 |
| Florida | $104,630 | $117,500 | $136,750 | 50 |
| Indiana | $92,610 | $113,640 | $131,820 | 60 |
| Illinois | $93,590 | $107,690 | $131,160 | — |
| Nevada | $97,810 | $107,500 | $131,210 | 470 |
| Montana | $98,200 | $105,410 | $106,350 | 110 |
| Virginia | $78,230 | $104,960 | $131,730 | 150 |
All 28 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Mine Safety Professional (CMSP) — Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration
- Principles and Practice of Engineering - Mining and Mineral Processing (PE-M&MP) — National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying
- WSO - Certified Safety Manager (WSO-CSM) — World Safety Organization
- Certified Planning Engineer (CPE) — American Academy of Project Management
- WSO - Certified Safety & Security Director (WSO-CSSD) — World Safety Organization
- WSO - Certified Safety Specialist (WSO-CSS) — World Safety Organization
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against mining and geological engineers, including mining safety engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 17-2151.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.