How to Be Mining Reclamation Specialist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Aug 10, 2021 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The demand for Mining Reclamation Specialists has dramatically increased in recent years due to the need for companies to properly dispose of hazardous materials and restore degraded land caused by the mining process. These specialists are responsible for creating and executing reclamation plans that minimize environmental damage and promote the return of a safe and healthy ecosystem. They employ a variety of methods such as soil stabilization, revegetation, water quality management, and habitat restoration to restore degraded lands. As a result of their work, Mining Reclamation Specialists have become an integral part of the mining industry and are vital to ensure a sustainable and responsible approach to mining operations.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelors Degree. Most entry-level positions in mining reclamation require a bachelor's degree. Prospective mining reclamation specialists should pursue a degree in environmental science, civil engineering, geology, or other related field.
Complete Relevant Coursework. Courses in mine and quarry engineering, mineral processing, hydrology, and environmental law and regulations are essential for individuals hoping to become a mining reclamation specialist.
Get Professional Experience. Employers typically prefer applicants who have relevant work experience in the mining industry. Internships and volunteer opportunities can help interested individuals gain the experience they need.
Obtain Certification. Certification is not required to become a mining reclamation specialist, but it can help demonstrate a degree of proficiency in the field. The Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration offers a certification program for mining professionals.
Consider Graduate-Level Education. While not required, some employers may prefer to hire mining reclamation specialists who have a master's degree in a related field. Advanced degrees can provide increased job opportunities and higher salaries.

Mining Reclamation Specialists must keep up-to-date with the latest information and trends in the mining industry to remain qualified. This includes staying informed of changes in mining regulations and laws, new technologies, and developments. they should regularly attend seminars and workshops to stay informed of the latest industry trends.

Lastly, they should maintain their certifications and licenses by completing continuing education requirements. All of these steps will help Mining Reclamation Specialists remain knowledgeable and well-qualified for their roles.

You may want to check Mining Hydraulic Engineer, Mining Cost Accountant, and Mining Project Manager for alternative.

Job Description

Assess mining project plans and develop reclamation plans for mining operations
Monitor compliance with reclamation regulations and standards
Develop and implement strategies for successful reclamation of mining sites
Develop methods for restoring mined environments to a natural state
Investigate and identify potential environmental impacts of mining operations
Prepare reports and documentation related to reclamation activities
Analyze and evaluate data related to reclamation activities
Provide recommendations for improvement of reclamation processes
Research and analyze industry trends regarding reclamation
Liaise with governmental agencies and other stakeholders regarding reclamation initiatives
Monitor water quality and other environmental conditions at mining sites
Develop strategies to manage erosion and sedimentation control on mining sites
Design and implement revegetation plans for mining sites
Provide technical assistance to mining operations in reclamation activities
Educate and train personnel on reclamation techniques

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of state and federal regulations related to mining reclamation
Understanding of environmental science, hydrology, geology, and engineering principles
Ability to prepare and review environmental documents, such as environmental impact assessments
Experience in land reclamation and revegetation techniques
Understanding of the principles and techniques of mine closure, decommissioning and reclamation
Ability to assess environmental impacts of mining operations
Excellent organizational and project management skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to develop and implement plans for reclamation of mined lands
Knowledge of safety policies and procedures related to reclamation activities

Having a good understanding of mining reclamation is essential to support the successful reclamation of land after mining. Mining reclamation specialists must have a deep knowledge of the mining processes, regulations and requirements, and the potential environmental effects of mining activities. They must also possess technical skills in soil science, hydrology, geology, and/or engineering to design, develop, and implement effective land reclamation plans.

It is also important for them to have good communication and project management skills to coordinate with key stakeholders such as miners, regulators, and the public. With these skills and knowledge, mining reclamation specialists can help ensure that mined land is restored to its original condition or improved so that it can be reused for other purposes, such as agricultural or recreational activities. this helps create a viable environment for future generations.

Mining Regulatory Compliance Officer, Mining Process Engineer, and Mining Quality Control Inspector are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in the field of Mining Reclamation?
How have you managed complex reclamation projects?
What strategies do you use to ensure mine sites are restored to their original environmental state?
What techniques do you use to minimize the environmental impact of mining operations?
How do you ensure compliance with state and federal regulations related to mining operations?
What challenges have you encountered when dealing with hazardous waste from mining operations?
How do you develop effective relationships with stakeholders and local communities when working on reclamation projects?
What methods do you use for monitoring and evaluating the progress of reclamation projects?
What have been your most successful reclamation projects and why?
What experience do you have in developing safety protocols for mine sites?

Common Tools in Industry

Geographic Information System (GIS). A computer system used to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and present spatial or geographic data. (e. g. , ArcGIS)
Remote Sensing. The acquisition of data about a target area using sensors on aircrafts, satellites, or other remote platforms. (e. g. , Landsat)
Landscape Visualization. A computer-based tool used to create 3D representations of the environment to help visualize potential impacts. (e. g. , ArcScene)
Hydrologic Modeling. Computer-based simulations of water flow through a watershed or river system used to estimate the impact of land use changes. (e. g. , HEC-RAS)
Geotechnical Surveys. Surveys conducted onsite to assess the geotechnical characteristics of soil and rock for engineering purposes. (e. g. , borehole logging)
Air Quality Modeling. Computer-based simulations of air quality used to estimate the impact of mining operations or other activities. (e. g. , AERMOD)
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). A process used to evaluate the potential environmental impacts of proposed project activities. (e. g. , ISO 14001)
Environmental Management System (EMS). A system designed to help organizations manage their environmental performance and comply with applicable regulations. (e. g. , ISO 14001)

Professional Organizations to Know

Association for Mineral Exploration British Columbia (AMEBC)
National Association of Abandoned Mine Land Programs (NAAMLP)
International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA)
The Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration (SME)
National Mining Association (NMA)
Mining Environmental Management Association (MEMA)
The National Association of Reclamation Professionals (NARPRO)
Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials (ASTSWMO)
Coal Reclamation Association (CRA)
American Exploration & Mining Association (AEMA)

We also have Mining Planner, Mining Claims Specialist, and Mine Maintenance Supervisor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Mine Reclamation. The process of restoring a mine to its original state after mining activity has been completed. This includes restoring the land, soil, water, and vegetation to its original conditions.
Surface Mining. The extraction of minerals and other resources from the Earths surface. This includes open-pit and strip mining.
Mine Closure Plans. Plans created by mining companies to restore the land, water, and wildlife affected by the mining process. These plans must adhere to local, state, and federal regulations.
Mine Lands Reclamation. The process of restoring mined land to its natural state by planting vegetation, restoring soil, and controlling water erosion.
Land Reclamation. The restoration of land after it has been mined or otherwise disturbed by human activities. This includes restoring topography, stabilizing soils, controlling erosion, and restoring vegetation.
Reforestation. The re-establishment of forests on land that has previously been deforested or mined. This may involve planting native trees and other vegetation to restore the natural landscape.
Mine Waste Management. The management and disposal of waste generated from the mining process. This includes disposing of tailings, leaching solutions, and other hazardous materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Mining Reclamation Specialist?

A Mining Reclamation Specialist is a professional who specializes in reclaiming land that has been disturbed by mining activities. They are responsible for restoring the land to its natural state and mitigating any potential environmental impacts.

What qualifications are needed to become a Mining Reclamation Specialist?

To become a Mining Reclamation Specialist, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in environmental science or a related field. Additional certifications or licenses may be required depending on the state or country in which they work.

What are the responsibilities of a Mining Reclamation Specialist?

The primary responsibility of a Mining Reclamation Specialist is to oversee the reclamation of disturbed land caused by mining activities. This may include developing plans for restoring the land, monitoring the progress of reclamation projects, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

What type of environment do Mining Reclamation Specialists typically work in?

Mining Reclamation Specialists typically work in outdoor environments, such as mines, quarries, and other disturbed areas. They also work in offices, developing plans and programs for reclamation projects.

How much do Mining Reclamation Specialists typically earn?

The average salary for Mining Reclamation Specialists varies based on factors such as experience, location, and the specific job duties. According to PayScale, the median salary for Mining Reclamation Specialists is $75,636 per year.

Web Resources

Mining Reclamation | Experts - uky.edu www.uky.edu
Mine Reclamation Distance Education | Missouri S&T distance.mst.edu
WVU land reclamation specialists new book explores future of ... extension.wvu.edu