Minerals / Mining Surveyor
The Work
Minerals surveyors, also known as mining surveyors, are concerned with the use, value, management and exploitation of mineral deposits, and the mapping and recording of the extent of mineral extraction.
They prepare initial surveys to determine the economic viability of a potential site and to support planning applications, taking account of possible environmental effects such as air and water pollution.
Surveyors negotiate legal contracts to establish rights to work a mine, gain access to land and build communications links. They carry out detailed site surveys to enable valuations of the mineral content of a mine or quarry. This involves charting surface and underground features using complex electronic equipment.
Minerals surveyors manage and develop quarries and mines, ensuring that workings are safe. When a site is exhausted, they advise how the waste material should be disposed. They may also advise on environment legislation and the reclamation of derelict and contaminated land.
Hours and Conditions
Working hours may include early starts, late finishes and weekend work. Though office-based, minerals surveyors often work on site, therefore travel is involved.
Mine workings can be dark, damp and / or dirty. Surface workings are exposed to the weather. Site visits can include standing for long periods, climbing and bending.
Safety regulations in mine workings must be strictly observed. Hard hats are worn on site / below ground. Mining equipment can be noisy.
Skills and Interests
To be a surveyor you need:
Training
You can qualify as a minerals surveyor through the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors or the Chartered Institute of Building's (CIOB) Faculty for Architecture and Surveying.
To qualify as a Chartered Surveyor through the RICS, you have to study for a degree accredited by the RICS for minerals surveying. You must also complete the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence (APC).
CIOB candidates need to hold an accredited honours degree. After obtaining the degree, graduates have to obtain two years' relevant experience. Those with a higher national certificate or diploma may join as associate members and upgrade to corporate membership through further study.
As a minerals surveyor, you may work towards NVQ / SVQ Level 4 in Valuation and / or Spatial Data Management.
Opportunities
This is a small area of specialisation and opportunities reflect that.
Employers include private coal mining and quarrying companies, mineral estate owners, the Inland Revenue Mineral Valuations Office, large corporations and local authorities.
Some work as consultants, surveying and managing mineral estates on behalf of small mining companies or large landowners.
Those with experience of mineral extraction are in demand in the UK and overseas. Gaining experience and promotion often means moving to other areas where minerals are found.
Further Information
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Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors
Tel: 0870 333 1600
www.rics.org.uk
Chartered Institute of Building
Tel: 01344 630700
www.ciob.org.uk
Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors
Tel: 0161 972 3100
www.ices.org.uk
