Technical & business support · Professional
Mining Engineer
Plans and improves extraction by connecting mine design, scheduling, production performance, geotechnical constraints and operational risk.
Indicative 2026 pay$145k–$190kAnnual gross, generally before super
Common roster contextSite roles often use 8/6 or 5/2/4/3; residential, office and hybrid patterns also occur.
Work environmentsOpen-pit planning · Underground planning · Drill and blast · Technical services
Role at a glance
What this role actually does.
Plans and improves extraction by connecting mine design, scheduling, production performance, geotechnical constraints and operational risk. The precise scope changes with the employer, asset, jurisdiction and written authorities.
The work
Core duties
- 01
Develop mine designs and schedules
- 02
Reconcile plan against performance
- 03
Coordinate geology, survey and operations inputs
- 04
Evaluate sequence and equipment options
- 05
Manage design changes and assumptions
- 06
Communicate executable plans
The assets
Equipment and systems
- 01
Mine planning software
- 02
Fleet and production data
- 03
Survey models
- 04
Geological models
- 05
Scheduling tools
- 06
Risk and change records
Before mobilisation
Typical foundations
- 01
Relevant accredited engineering degree
- 02
Graduate development and site competence
- 03
Professional or statutory requirements applicable to the jurisdiction and role
- 04
Strong operational communication and data discipline
Prove capability
Evidence employers can verify
- 01
Planning horizon and mine type
- 02
Design or schedule ownership
- 03
Assumptions and constraints
- 04
Reconciliation, change and operational outcome
Entry pathway
A credible way into the role.
- 01
Complete a relevant engineering degree
- 02
Enter a graduate or site technical-services role
- 03
Build operational exposure
- 04
Own increasingly complex designs and planning horizons
Earning context
What tends to move pay
- 01
Underground or surface specialisation
- 02
Planning horizon and accountability
- 03
Statutory eligibility
- 04
Site roster, bonus and location
Before accepting
Questions to ask about the offer
- 01
Is the quoted figure base salary, total cash or a package including super?
- 02
Which roster, shift length and point of hire does the offer assume?
- 03
How are overtime, nights, public holidays, allowances, bonus and travel treated?
Progression
Possible next moves.
Progression depends on demonstrated competence, vacancies, performance, qualifications and any appointment requirements. It is not automatic.
Keep exploring
Related role profiles.
Editorial note
Salary bands are broad 2026 Australian mining market guides, not promised rates. Role requirements summarise common practice and do not replace legislation, regulator guidance, an employment agreement, site procedures or a written appointment. Last reviewed 17 September 2026.