BC has been one of the world’s major mining regions since the mid-1800s. The world’s largest cluster of exploration companies and mining professionals are based in BC. Upwards of 12 major mining companies with operations in BC and elsewhere have offices in Vancouver and or interior communities. Upwards of 800 companies in greater Vancouver carry out early mineral exploration work. Hundreds of companies supply and service the minerals industry – from airlines to steel ball suppliers to environmental engineers to lawyers.
In 2013, 19 metal and coal mines operated in the province. By the end of 2013, BC had 27 proposed new mines. Gross mining revenues for the B.C. mining industry were $8.5 billion in 2013.
Hiring requirements for all mining sectors in B.C., over the next 10 years, are projected to be 16,770 workers. In 2013, 10,720 people worked in B.C.’s mining industry. The average mining industry salary, with benefits, was $114,600 in 2013.
Mineral resources development is a multistage process and each stage requires a variety of skilled workers to operate efficiently, safely and responsibly. Opportunities in this industry involve working at exploration sites, often in remote locations, at mines, quarries and pits and in offices.
Entry-level positions require modest education or experience and can lead to higher-level positions in the industry. Examples include:
- Drill Core Technician
- Driller’s Helper
- Line and Pad Cutter
- General Labourer
- Surveyor’s Assistant
Trades and ServiceIndustry positions are essential to successful exploration and mining operations. Examples include:
- Camp cook
- Millwright
- Heavy Duty Mechanic
- Electrician
- Welder
- Helicopter Pilot
Technologist positions involve hands-on work and have specific education requirements. The education requirements are less demanding than advanced science and technology positions. Most emphasize the use of technology. Examples include:
- Geological Technician
- Mapping/GIS Technician
- Land Surveyor
- Assayer
- Environmental Technologist
Advanced Science and Technology positions are well-paid and require significant education from a university or technical institute. Examples include:
- Geologist
- Geochemist
- Geological Engineer
- Mill Engineer
- Metallurgical Engineer
- Mine Engineer
Management positions involve supervising or managing other employees in various areas of the minerals industry. Examples include:
- Mine Superintendent
- Mine Supervisor
- Human Resources Manager
- Environmental Manager
- Community Affairs Manager
- Health and Safety Coordinator
This is just a sample of career opportunities in this industry and does not include the businesses that supply products and services to this industry, office staff, communications and marketing staff, information technology professionals, accountants, project managers, lawyers, other trades people.
For more information about this industry, please visit the following websites:
Mining Association of BC
Centre of Training Excellence in Mining
Mining Industry Human Resources Council
Mining Suppliers Association of BC
Women in Mining BC