Overview
Machine operators in mineral and metal processing operate machinery to process mineral ore and metal. They are employed in mineral ore and metal processing plants such as copper, lead and zinc refineries, uranium processing plants, steel mills, aluminum plants, precious metal refineries and cement processing plants.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Set up, prepare and adjust mineral ore, metal and cement processing machinery to carry out one step in the overall mineral ore or metal processing operation
Operate single-function machinery to grind, separate, filter, mix, treat, cast, roll, refine or otherwise process mineral ores
Observe gauges, meters, computer printouts, video monitors and products to ensure correct operation of machinery and verify processing conditions
Make adjustments to machinery as required
Record production information and complete reports
May assist with machinery maintenance or repair.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$38,187
$87,637
$117,148
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
184expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of secondary school is usually required.
On-the-job training is provided.
Experience as a labourer in mineral and metal processing is usually required for machine operators.
Additional information
There is little mobility among the various types of machine operators within the mineral and metal processing industry.
With experience, machine operators may progress to central control and process operators in mineral and metal processing.
Certification requirements
Work Experience
Work experience required
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
No post-secondary education required
No post-secondary education required. You can work in this career without post-secondary education. Some on the job training may be provided. With additional training or experience, you may be able to progress into higher level, supervisory or management positions.