Undermining, or underground mining, has created a vast number of work opportunities in Canada and provides some of the highest-paid industrial jobs in the country. This growing industry also offers progressive career prospects and the opportunity to work overseas, so is therefore suitable for those who are prepared to live away from home for extended periods of time.
Those working in underground mining spend most of their working life underground. They are required to operate specialist machinery, working at depths of up to 3.9kms in dark, damp and cold conditions. They may work in mines throughout the world, traveling to countries in Asia, Africa or Europe.
Mining training is currently offered at nine universities and 25 colleges throughout Canada. Trainees may receive a working salary and must typically spend three months in training, which will be conducted both in the classroom and on the job, followed by a nine-month work placement. Once qualified, miners receive salaries in the region of C
$80,000 to C
$85,000.