Subsidence
Subsidence is when the ground surface sinks or settles due to underground mining activities. It's a crucial concept in the mining industry that affects both active and abandoned mine sites. Mining companies need professionals who understand subsidence because it impacts safety, environmental compliance, and community relations. When coal or other minerals are removed from underground, the empty space can cause the layers of rock and soil above to move downward, potentially affecting buildings and infrastructure on the surface. This is why mining companies specifically look for engineers and specialists who can predict, monitor, and manage subsidence effects.
Examples in Resumes
Managed subsidence monitoring programs across 3 active mining sites
Conducted risk assessments for potential subsidence impacts on local infrastructure
Developed and implemented subsidence prevention strategies for longwall mining operations
Typical job title: "Subsidence Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Subsidence Engineers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Industry Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop a comprehensive subsidence management plan for a new mining operation?
Expected Answer: A senior professional should discuss risk assessment, monitoring systems, preventive measures, community consultation, and regulatory compliance. They should mention experience with similar projects and specific strategies that worked.
Q: What factors would you consider when assessing subsidence risk in an urban area?
Expected Answer: Should explain considerations like building types, infrastructure location, geological conditions, mining depth, and historical subsidence patterns. Should emphasize importance of stakeholder communication and preventive measures.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What monitoring techniques do you use to track subsidence movement?
Expected Answer: Should describe various monitoring methods like surface surveys, GPS monitoring, tiltmeters, and explain when each is most appropriate. Should show understanding of data interpretation.
Q: How do you determine if subsidence damage requires immediate action?
Expected Answer: Should discuss warning signs, safety thresholds, measurement techniques, and when to implement emergency procedures. Should mention experience with actual incidents.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What causes mining subsidence?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic concepts of how underground mining creates voids, how rock layers respond, and factors that influence surface movement. Should show understanding of basic geological principles.
Q: What are the main signs of subsidence occurring?
Expected Answer: Should identify visible signs like ground cracks, building damage, water pooling, and explain basic monitoring techniques. Should understand importance of early detection.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of mining operations
- Ability to read subsidence monitoring data
- Knowledge of safety procedures
- Basic report writing
Mid (2-5 years)
- Subsidence monitoring program management
- Risk assessment and analysis
- Environmental compliance knowledge
- stakeholder communication
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex subsidence management planning
- Project leadership
- Regulatory compliance expertise
- Advanced risk mitigation strategies
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic mining operations
- Lack of experience with monitoring equipment
- Poor knowledge of safety regulations
- No experience with risk assessment
- Unable to explain basic geological concepts
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Tiny Neighborhoods, Huge Impact: The Surprising Power of Hyper-Local SEO in Your Hiring Game
Speak Their Language: How Localized Job Descriptions Unlock Regional Talent
The Hidden Signs Your Best Employees Are About to Quit (And How to Stop Them)
