Hands-on
2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert
Explore a possible path
Continuous Mining Machine Operators
Operate self-propelled mining machines that rip coal, metal and nonmetal ores, rock, stone, or sand from the mine face and load it onto conveyors, shuttle cars, or trucks in a continuous operation.
How does this connect to your interests? →A look at the work
- Hang ventilation tubing and ventilation curtains to ensure that the mining face area is kept properly ventilated.
- Conduct methane gas checks to ensure breathing quality of air.
- Check the stability of roof and rib support systems before mining face areas.
- Operate mining machines to gather coal and convey it to floors or shuttle cars.
- Drive machines into position at working faces.
- Move controls to start and regulate movement of conveyors and to start and position drill cutters or torches.
- Reposition machines to make additional holes or cuts.
- Determine locations, boundaries, and depths of holes or channels to be cut.
A selection of source-listed tasks; duties vary by role and employer.
Interests involved in this work
These source scores describe occupational work activities. They are separate from your personal test results.
7.0 / 7
Investigative
2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert
Creative
2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert
Helping people
2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert
Enterprising
2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert
Organizing
2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert
Skills to explore
Source-reported importance on a 1–5 scale. Try a course, project or conversation to learn what these skills involve.
Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
2016-07
Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
2016-07
Equipment Maintenance
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
2016-07
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
2016-07
Troubleshooting
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
2016-07
Judgment and Decision Making
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
2016-07
Repairing
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
2016-07
Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
2016-07
Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
2016-07
Time Management
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
2016-07
Plan a small next step
Talk to someone doing this work, look for a supervised activity, and explore the subjects that interest you. Admission, licensing and current program requirements should be confirmed with the relevant institutions.
Source preparation category: Job Zone 2 of 5 · 2026-02. This category describes typical preparation, not your eligibility.
Related study fields
Source crosswalk connections are research leads, not required qualifications.
Construction/Heavy Equipment/Earthmoving Equipment Operation →
Explore all related study fields →Source & methodology
O*NET-SOC code 47-5041.00 · Database 31.0 · Retrieved Oct 14, 2026. Dates on individual observations describe their source periods.
How interest exploration matching works →Data: O*NET® 31.0 Database, U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. Used under CC BY 4.0. StudyIndex normalizes the presentation and adds exploration features; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed or tested these additions.