Roof bolters, mining

SOC Code: 47-5043
Also known as:
Bolt Machine Operator, Bolt Man, Bolter, Bolting Inspector, Bolting Machine Operator
Median Annual Salary
$76,640
-34.2% growth (2024-2034)
100
Openings/Year
2K
Current Jobs

What Roof bolters, mining Do

Operate machinery to install roof support bolts in underground mine.

💰 Salary

$76,640
Median annual wage (2024)

📈 Job Growth

-34.2%
Decline

🎓 Education

High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement

🚀 Annual Openings

100
Projected average per year

📚 On-the-Job Training

Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period

Employment Projections (2024-2034)

Current Employment (2024)

2,300

Projected Employment (2034)

1,500

Related Careers

Top Skills Required

Operation and Control
Critical Thinking
Monitoring
Operations Monitoring
Troubleshooting

Daily Tasks & Responsibilities

  • Drill bolt holes into roofs at specified distances from ribs or adjacent bolts.
  • Pull down loose rock that cannot be supported.
  • Position bolting machines, and insert drill bits into chucks.
  • Perform safety checks on equipment before operating.
  • Perform tests to determine if methane gas is present.
  • Force bolts into holes, using hydraulic mechanisms of self-propelled bolting machines.
  • Perform ventilation tasks, such as hanging ventilation curtains and tubes.
  • Dust rocks after bolting.
  • Install various types of bolts, including truss, glue, and resin bolts, traversing entire ceiling spans.
  • Drill test holes and test bolts for specified tension, using torque wrenches.

📚 Entry-Level Education

High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement

🎯 Recommended Education

High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level

College Rankings

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much do roof bolters, mining make?
The median annual salary for roof bolters, mining is $76,640.
What education do roof bolters, mining need?
Most roof bolters, mining positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Is becoming a roof bolters, mining a good career choice?
Roof bolters, mining is projected to see -34.2% job growth from 2024 to 2034, which reflects some decline in the field. With approximately 100 job openings expected annually, there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for roof bolters, mining?
The best colleges offer strong programs in related fields with experienced faculty and industry connections.
What other job titles are similar to roof bolters, mining?
Roof bolters, mining may also be known as: Bolt Machine Operator, Bolt Man, Bolter, Bolting Inspector, Bolting Machine Operator, Miner, Place Change Roof Bolter, Roof Bolter, Roof Bolter Operator, Roof Bolting Coal Miner, Truss Assembler, Underground Bolting Machine Operator, Underground Miner, Underground Roof Bolter. These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.