The gold mining industry has declined over time, but if you live near a gold mine or are willing to travel to an area where gold mining is still done, you can still become a gold miner. Because gold is sometimes mined alongside other minerals, you may find yourself learning how to extract a variety of materials from mines as part of your job training. Some mining jobs do not require a specific level of education, but if you want to do more advanced work, a college degree or certificate may be required.
Check out job postings from mining companies to see what they’re looking for in a candidate. You are usually qualified to work as a gold miner in some capacity if you are willing to work hard and learn new skills. You will need to complete extensive job training to prepare for the rigors of the job, and you must be in good physical condition to participate in the mining process. Obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL) with the appropriate certifications to qualify you to drive heavy machinery and large trucks can improve your chances of becoming a gold miner.
Take training courses in mine safety, explosives, machine operation, and other mining-related topics to improve your chances of landing a gold mining job. Employers will look for job candidates with relevant education and experience, so developing such skills and experiences can help you find work faster. If you have no prior work experience, you will be placed in an entry-level position that requires a lot of physical labor. Maintain a strong work ethic while working in these positions so that your bosses will be more inclined to promote you in the future.
Working in a processing facility can also lead to a career as a gold miner. Not all gold is mined entirely on-site. Instead, the raw materials are transported to a sorting or processing facility, where workers will finish separating the gold from other materials. You can work in a processing facility by applying for a position and completing the job and safety training required for the position. Unless you have credentials that qualify you for more advanced or specialized positions, you should expect to start with an entry-level position.