Roof Bolters, Mining
Roof bolters in mining operate machinery to install support bolts that secure the roof of underground mine passages. These bolts prevent cave-ins and maintain safe working conditions in active mines. The work takes place hundreds of feet underground in coal, metal, and other mining operations across the United States.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against roof bolters, mining and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical shift involves positioning bolting equipment, drilling holes into mine ceilings, and installing steel bolts with mechanical anchors or resin. Roof bolters inspect previously installed bolts for stability and may relocate equipment as mining operations advance. The work requires attention to safety procedures, coordination with other mining crews, and troubleshooting equipment issues that arise in the underground environment.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. 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 tend to prefer concrete, hands-on work with clear procedures and measurable results—the realistic interest. You're comfortable following established systems and regulations, the conventional interest, which suits the safety-focused protocols essential to mining operations.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wyoming | $115,440 | $116,570 | $116,570 | 100 |
| Illinois | $79,300 | $81,860 | $81,860 | 200 |
| Colorado | $79,700 | $81,270 | $86,380 | 40 |
| West Virginia | $70,760 | $79,400 | $81,850 | 970 |
| Virginia | $77,500 | $78,260 | $97,340 | 110 |
| Kentucky | $72,440 | $72,510 | $72,540 | 120 |
| Alabama | $66,010 | $67,020 | $69,390 | 80 |
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 roof bolters, mining and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-5043.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.