We need Electricians to install, test, repair and maintain electrical systems and equipment that are integral to the mine’s operation. They excel at tackling challenging tasks that require deep knowledge of electrical systems, attention to detail and safe work practices.
What is it Like to Work as an Electrician in Mining?
Note: conditions vary according to employer and region.
Electricians interpret electrical drawings to determine wiring layouts that will work best in new installations. Working with a variety of hand tools and meters, they spend their workday troubleshooting, and often work in small confined spaces or high up on ladders and platforms, including bucket trucks.
Why are People Attracted to this Career?
Electricians enjoy a variety of challenges. Electricians are well respected within the mining industry because it takes expert knowledge and skill to harness the power of electricity in a safe and responsible manner.
Job Description
- Maintain and upgrade existing electrical systems as well as new installations, including (but not limited to) control equipment, motors, pumps, and more
- Interpret drawings, blueprints, schematics and electrical code specifications
- Install and maintain automated systems
- Consult with other specialists when working with complex electronic devices and systems
- Attend to power outages, cable replacement, ventilation issues and power to emergency pumps
- Follow preventative maintenance programs, including routine equipment inspections
- Maintain maintenance records
- Lock out hazardous equipment and meet with supervisor to review safety process
- Replace items such as circuit breakers, fuses, switches, electrical and electronic components
- Change fuses and insulators on main power lines, and repair and/or replace lighting
- Reroute power (ground switching) as required to complete work safely
- Provide electrical service for underground mining equipment and surface operating equipment
- In underground mines, install power sleds, maintain hoists
- Operate generator stations during power outages
Compensation
$27.58 an hour
$51.20 an hour
Apprentices are typically paid a percentage of the full wage beginning at 75% and increasing with experience.
Job Prospect
Success Profile
- Reads and interprets technical drawings
- Committed to safe work habits
- Detail-oriented and precise
- Embraces new technology
- Excellent manual dexterity
- Flexible, versatile and patient
- Has strong communication skills
- Works well in a team and independently
- Works well under pressure
Job Entry Requirements
Note: The requirements listed below illustrate what it takes to start the career and does not take into account on-the-job training given to new employees.
Fixed Requirements
- Completion of a four-year apprenticeship program that combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training
- Good eyesight and colour vision (required to identify colour-coded wires)
- Ability to conduct complex tests
- Must be able to pass a medical test
- Must be able to pass a drug test
- Willingness to work in a diverse environment
- Proficiency in language of operation
- Red Seal certificate in Electrical trade
May be Required
- High school diploma or equivalent
Assets
- Willingness to relocate
- Other languages