Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Coal Classification • Mine Lighting • Coal Stockpile

Strip Mining

Term from Coal Mining industry explained for recruiters

Strip mining is a common method of extracting coal and minerals from the earth's surface. Unlike underground mining, strip mining involves removing the layers of soil and rock (called overburden) above the coal seams to access the resources. It's like peeling layers of an onion from the top, where miners remove each layer of earth to reach the coal underneath. This method is typically used when coal deposits are relatively close to the surface, making it more cost-effective than tunneling underground. Other similar terms include "surface mining" or "open pit mining."

Examples in Resumes

Supervised Strip Mining operations for a 500-acre site

Managed heavy equipment teams in Strip Mining and Surface Mining projects

Improved safety protocols for Strip Mining and Open Pit Mining operations

Typical job title: "Strip Mining Operators"

Also try searching for:

Surface Mining Operator Mining Equipment Operator Open Pit Mining Supervisor Strip Mine Foreman Surface Mining Superintendent Heavy Equipment Operator Mining Operations Manager

Where to Find Strip Mining Operators

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you manage environmental compliance in a strip mining operation?

Expected Answer: A senior professional should discuss land reclamation plans, environmental monitoring, compliance with state and federal regulations, and strategies for minimizing environmental impact. They should mention specific permits and documentation required.

Q: What factors do you consider when planning a new strip mining operation?

Expected Answer: Should explain site evaluation, overburden analysis, equipment selection, workforce planning, environmental impact studies, and cost analysis. Should also mention community relations and safety considerations.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What safety protocols are essential in strip mining operations?

Expected Answer: Should discuss daily safety meetings, equipment inspections, proper communication systems, emergency procedures, and weather monitoring. Should also mention personal protective equipment requirements.

Q: How do you coordinate between different teams in a strip mining operation?

Expected Answer: Should explain communication between drilling, blasting, loading, and hauling teams, shift scheduling, equipment coordination, and how to handle unexpected delays or problems.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic steps in strip mining?

Expected Answer: Should describe the sequence: removing vegetation, storing topsoil, removing overburden, extracting coal or minerals, and reclaiming the land. Should understand the basic flow of operations.

Q: What types of equipment are commonly used in strip mining?

Expected Answer: Should identify basic equipment like draglines, power shovels, bulldozers, haul trucks, and explain their basic functions in the mining process.