Will “Crusher Loader Equipment Operator” be Automated?

Core Skills & Abilities

• Operate mining machines to gather coal and convey it to floors or shuttle cars.

• Reposition machines to make additional holes or cuts.

• Move controls to start and regulate movement of conveyors and to start and position drill cutters or torches.

• Drive machines into position at working faces.

• Observe and listen to equipment operation to detect binding or stoppage of tools or other equipment malfunctions.

• Check the stability of roof and rib support systems before mining face areas.

• Hang ventilation tubing and ventilation curtains to ensure that the mining face area is kept properly ventilated.

• Apply new technologies developed to minimize the environmental impact of coal mining.

• Install casings to prevent cave-ins.

• Conduct methane gas checks to ensure breathing quality of air.

• Determine locations, boundaries, and depths of holes or channels to be cut.

• Scrape or wash conveyors, using belt scrapers or belt washers, to minimize dust production.

• Repair, oil, and adjust machines, and change cutting teeth, using wrenches.

• Move levers to raise and lower hydraulic safety bars supporting roofs above machines until other workers complete framing.

• Guide and assist crews laying track and resetting supports and blocking.