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Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining

SOC 47-5044.00Job Zone 2 · Some Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers underground loading and moving machine operators working in coal and hard-rock mining environments, spanning shuttle car operation, conveyor control, electrical cable handling, roof scaling, and equipment maintenance across entry to senior career stages calibrated to Job Zone 2 vocational preparation.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Shuttle car controls — identify and operate under direct supervisor guidance on a designated underground haulage route.
  2. Electrical cable hazards — recognize and report using basic safety awareness protocols in an active mine entry.
  3. Rubber safety gloves — select and don correctly before moving trailing electrical cables clear of obstructions on a mine floor.
  4. Hand signals and grade stakes — observe and interpret with crew assistance when positioning loading equipment at the working face.
  5. Roadway obstructions — identify and flag for removal before driving a machine through an underground travel way.
  6. Conveyor belt controls — engage and monitor under supervision to distribute material loads during routine shuttle car loading cycles.
  7. Crowbar techniques — assist in prying loose roof material into machine paths under the direct instruction of an experienced operator.
  8. Pre-shift equipment checks — complete using a provided checklist before operating a loading or moving machine at an underground mining site.
  9. High-voltage cable locations — recognize and avoid contact with, following posted safety procedures in a mine entry.
  10. Basic machine controls — practice coordinating hand and foot inputs to maneuver a shuttle car on a level underground roadway under close oversight.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Loaded shuttle cars — drive independently to mine ramps and operate discharge controls to unload material into mine cars or onto conveyors with minimal supervision.
  2. Trailing electrical cables — move clear of equipment travel paths using rubber safety gloves, applying standard cable-handling procedures in active mine sections.
  3. Conveyor length distribution — control conveyor speed and direction along the full length of a shuttle car to balance loads evenly as material accumulates during routine operations.
  4. Blasted material faces — drive loading machines into piles with consistent control precision, adjusting approach angle to optimize scoop capacity in familiar underground conditions.
  5. Roof scaling operations — use a crowbar to pry and relocate loose roof material ahead of machine travel routes without direct instruction in established work areas.
  6. Hand signals and grade markings — interpret and respond to accurately while multitasking machine operation in a moderately congested underground environment.
  7. High-voltage sources — handle and re-hang electrical cables safely following mine electrical procedures, with awareness of live-circuit hazards in underground entries.
  8. Equipment malfunctions — identify common mechanical faults through operational monitoring and report findings clearly to maintenance personnel during a shift.
  9. Underground roadway conditions — examine and clear obstructions from travel paths independently before and during machine operation to maintain safe haulage flow.
  10. Shift production logs — record machine operating hours and load counts using time accounting or inventory software at the end of each underground shift.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Full-cycle shuttle car operations — perform autonomously across loading, haulage, and discharge phases, adapting to changing roadway and face conditions throughout an underground mining shift.
  2. Non-routine electrical cable situations — troubleshoot and safely re-route high-voltage cables around equipment or roof falls without supervisor intervention in active mine sections.
  3. Complex load distribution — regulate conveyor speed and timing across varying material densities and volumes to prevent overloading while maximizing throughput on a continuous basis.
  4. Difficult terrain navigation — maneuver loading machines through tight entries, grades, and turns with precise multilimb coordination, minimizing equipment contact with rib and roof.
  5. Roof hazard assessment — independently scale and clear loose material from machine travel zones, making real-time judgments about safe entry into blasted areas.
  6. Equipment malfunctions — diagnose and perform field-level troubleshooting on shuttle cars and conveyors, applying mechanical knowledge to restore operations and limit downtime.
  7. Crew communication — convey operational status, hazard observations, and equipment issues clearly and concisely to shift supervisors and co-workers in high-noise underground environments.
  8. Safety compliance monitoring — observe and correct unsafe cable-handling or machine-operating practices by co-workers using site safety standards and personal authority as a senior operator.
  9. Preventive maintenance tasks — carry out scheduled lubrication, inspection, and minor repairs on loading and moving machines in accordance with manufacturer and mine maintenance schedules.
  10. Operational data entry — accurately log production metrics, machine hours, and incident observations in industrial control or time accounting software to support shift reporting requirements.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Underground machine operations program — lead the development and continuous improvement of operating procedures for loading and moving equipment across an entire mine section or operation.
  2. Operator training and mentorship — design and deliver structured on-the-job training for new and developing operators, building their machine control, cable-handling, and safety competencies.
  3. High-voltage electrical safety standards — establish and enforce site-specific procedures for cable handling and electrical hazard management, ensuring compliance across all operating crews.
  4. Production efficiency strategy — analyze haulage cycle times, conveyor distribution patterns, and loading face layouts to recommend operational changes that increase throughput and reduce equipment wear.
  5. Equipment maintenance culture — champion a preventive maintenance program across the department, coordinating with mechanics and operators to reduce unplanned machine downtime in underground sections.
  6. Cross-functional hazard communication — collaborate with mine engineering, safety, and supervision teams to identify, evaluate, and communicate roadway and roof hazard risks before they affect operations.
  7. Incident investigation leadership — lead root-cause analyses of equipment-related incidents or near-misses, developing corrective action plans and presenting findings to mine management.
  8. Workforce scheduling and coordination — plan and allocate operator assignments across shifts and work zones, balancing skill levels and production demands to sustain safe haulage operations.
  9. Technology adoption — evaluate and guide the implementation of industrial control software and monitoring tools for shuttle car and conveyor operations, supporting crew adoption and compliance.
  10. Organizational safety culture — model and reinforce dependability, integrity, and cautiousness at the leadership level, setting the behavioral standard for all underground machine operators across the site.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-assisted equipment alerts — recognizes when onboard or surface AI monitoring systems flag anomalies in shuttle car or conveyor performance, and reports findings to a supervisor for follow-up action WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Sensor-data interpretation — reads AI-generated dashboards that aggregate conveyor load distribution and machine health metrics, using the outputs to adjust speed or load placement during a shift Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Troubleshooting support — describes observed machine faults to an AI diagnostic tool in plain language, then applies the suggested inspection sequence to isolate electrical cable or drive-system problems Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Operations monitoring delegation — relies on AI systems to continuously track voltage levels, cable tension, and load weight across the shuttle car run, freeing operator attention for physical hazard control such as roof prying and cable clearing Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Control-loop adjustment — interprets AI recommendations on conveyor belt speed and load distribution, then overrides or confirms those recommendations based on direct observation of material flow and roof conditions Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Incident pattern recognition — cross-references AI-flagged equipment anomaly histories with personal shift experience to prioritize which warnings require immediate machine shutdown versus continued monitored operation WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Upskilling window leverage — capitalizes on the Q3 upskilling window by learning to configure AI monitoring thresholds for high-voltage systems and conveyor loads, translating that configuration knowledge into crew training and standard operating procedure updates Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Human-AI handoff design — establishes clear protocols that define which underground machine decisions remain with the operator (roof hazard response, cable routing in confined headings) and which are delegated to AI monitoring systems, ensuring safety-critical judgment stays with trained personnel Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. AI system evaluation — assesses the accuracy of AI-generated fault predictions against actual equipment outcomes across multiple shifts, and provides structured feedback to maintenance engineers to refine model performance in the specific underground environment WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Operation and Control
Score: 62.1 / 100
Quadrant: Q3_upskilling_window
precision: category_estimate
WEF cluster
Technology Use, Monitoring and Control
technology_use_monitoring_control
Sources:WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication11 statements
Emerging
  1. Hand signal recognition — identifies and responds to basic hand signals and grade stake markings when operating loading machines in underground mine entries Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Hazard reporting — communicates observed roof conditions or roadway obstructions to a supervisor using basic verbal descriptions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Radio protocol — uses mine communication equipment to relay position and load status to surface or shift supervisors O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Shift handoff communication — conveys equipment status, tunnel conditions, and pending tasks to oncoming operators through structured verbal briefings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Crew coordination dialogue — exchanges real-time information with blasting crews and conveyor operators to synchronize loading and haulage cycles Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Maintenance reporting — describes mechanical faults and irregular machine behavior to maintenance personnel using accurate equipment-specific terminology O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Pre-shift safety briefing — delivers clear accounts of electrical cable positions, high-voltage hazards, and travel-path obstructions to the entire crew before operations begin Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Multi-party signal interpretation — reads and acts on simultaneous hand signals, auditory cues, and lighting signals from multiple crew members during continuous loading operations O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Incident documentation — writes accurate written accounts of equipment incidents, near-misses, and roof falls for mine safety records Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-shift hazard communication — authors detailed shift reports that synthesize machine performance data, roadway conditions, and safety observations into actionable briefings for supervisors and inspectors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Mentored signal training — coaches new operators in the full vocabulary of underground hand signals and grade stake interpretation through structured on-site demonstration Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership9 statements
Emerging
  1. Personal task ownership — takes responsibility for completing assigned loading cycles and cable-handling duties without requiring repeated direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety initiative — independently clears loose material from the travel path before machine operation without being prompted by supervisors O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Peer hazard flagging — alerts co-workers to detected roof instability or electrical cable entanglement risks and guides them clear of the danger zone Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Operational continuity — assumes lead-operator duties within a section when the shift supervisor is temporarily absent, maintaining loading cycles and safety protocols Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Section safety stewardship — enforces rubber glove and high-voltage cable handling procedures among all crew members on the section, correcting unsafe practices on the spot Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment readiness leadership — coordinates pre-shift machine inspections across the crew and assigns follow-up maintenance tasks based on findings O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Trainee supervision — guides probationary operators through shuttle car and conveyor controls, providing real-time corrective feedback during live loading operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Emergency response command — takes charge of crew evacuation or rescue procedures when roof falls or electrical incidents occur, directing personnel and communicating with mine rescue teams Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Operational improvement leadership — identifies recurring loading cycle inefficiencies, proposes procedural changes to mine management, and pilots revised methods with the crew Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Operational self-check — pauses before engaging machine controls to mentally review the travel path, cable positions, and load discharge sequence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Error recognition — notices when a load distribution error has occurred on the conveyor belt and self-corrects control inputs before reporting to a supervisor Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill gap identification — recognizes personal limitations in handling specific underground equipment configurations and seeks additional supervised practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Performance reflection — reviews near-miss events after each shift to identify the decision point where a different action would have prevented the hazard Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Situational awareness calibration — continuously monitors cognitive load during simultaneous cable handling, machine steering, and crew signal observation, adjusting pace to maintain accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning strategy selection — chooses between hands-on machine time and supervisor debriefs as the most effective method for mastering a new tunnel section's layout Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Metacognitive mentoring — teaches new operators to self-monitor attention during high-noise, low-visibility loading conditions by modeling explicit think-aloud strategies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Continuous competency mapping — tracks personal proficiency across all underground machine types and documents learning milestones to guide career progression within the mine Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking9 statements
Emerging
  1. Obstruction assessment — examines the roadway ahead and distinguishes between debris that can be cleared manually and material requiring machine repositioning O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Signal ambiguity resolution — pauses machine operation and seeks clarification when a hand signal or grade stake marking is unclear rather than proceeding on assumption Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Fault diagnosis — analyzes irregular conveyor belt behavior to determine whether the cause is load distribution, mechanical failure, or electrical supply irregularity before taking corrective action Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Roof condition evaluation — assesses pried-off material characteristics and fall patterns to infer broader roof stability before advancing the machine into the working face O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Load routing decisions — evaluates ramp grade, shuttle car capacity, and mine car availability to select the most efficient discharge sequence during continuous loading operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. High-voltage risk analysis — examines cable routing, insulation condition, and proximity to water accumulation before moving electrical cables, applying logical risk-reduction sequencing O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Troubleshooting under production pressure — systematically isolates equipment faults using elimination logic while minimizing disruption to the loading cycle Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Systemic inefficiency analysis — traces recurring loading delays back to root causes spanning machine setup, blast fragmentation quality, and conveyor timing, then proposes integrated solutions to mine engineering Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Regulatory compliance reasoning — applies critical analysis to MSHA regulations and mine-specific safety plans to identify gaps in current operating procedures and recommend corrective measures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration8 statements
Emerging
  1. Crew task integration — coordinates cable movement and machine travel with adjacent operators to avoid entanglement during simultaneous loading in the same section Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Signal compliance — responds promptly and accurately to directional signals from other crew members during blasted-face loading operations O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Conveyor team synchronization — adjusts shuttle car loading speed to match the capacity pace set by the surface conveyor crew, preventing spillage and bottlenecks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Maintenance collaboration — works alongside mechanics during equipment inspections, supplying operational observations that accelerate fault diagnosis O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-crew hazard mitigation — partners with roof bolters, blasters, and haulage crews to sequence work so that no crew is exposed to another's active hazard zone Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Shift-overlap coordination — collaborates with outgoing operators during equipment transfer to share machine condition details, section layout changes, and in-progress load cycles Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-functional process improvement — engages with mine planning engineers, safety officers, and equipment crews to co-develop loading procedures that optimize tonnage while reducing electrical and roof hazard exposure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict de-escalation in confined sections — mediates production-versus-safety disagreements between crew members in high-pressure underground environments, reaching consensus without halting operations unnecessarily Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character9 statements
Emerging
  1. Safety rule adherence — consistently wears required PPE and uses rubber safety gloves for all high-voltage cable handling without exception Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Honest incident reporting — accurately reports equipment contact with roof or rib structures to supervisors even when no visible damage results Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Accountability for load accuracy — accepts responsibility when load distribution errors cause conveyor spillage and takes corrective action without deflecting blame Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment care ethic — returns machines to the designated parking area with cables properly stowed, leaving the section ready for the next crew Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Ethical hazard disclosure — reports deteriorating roof conditions or electrical cable damage observed at shift start even when disclosure may delay production targets Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional conduct under pressure — maintains respectful and constructive behavior with crew members and supervisors during high-tonnage production pushes or equipment downtime Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Regulatory integrity — complies fully with MSHA inspection requirements and provides accurate accounts of machine operation to inspectors without coaching from supervisors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Safety culture modeling — demonstrates and advocates for the highest ethical standards in hazard reporting and equipment care, setting the behavioral benchmark that newer operators emulate Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Whistleblower integrity — escalates unsafe supervisory directives that conflict with mine safety regulations through proper channels, accepting the professional risk of that action Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Improvised path clearing — devises practical methods for removing irregularly shaped blasted material from travel paths using available tools when standard approaches are blocked Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cable routing adaptation — identifies alternative cable paths around newly fallen debris or equipment obstructions to maintain electrical supply continuity O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Loading sequence experimentation — tests alternative machine approach angles into blasted faces to improve bucket fill factors and reduce cycle time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Temporary repair improvisation — applies field-expedient fixes to minor mechanical issues to sustain operations until a mechanic can perform a full repair, within safety limits O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Process adaptation in changed geology — redesigns personal loading approach when unexpected rock types or fragmentation sizes require different machine positioning and control inputs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Signal system innovation — proposes supplementary visual or auditory signals for sections where noise or dust makes standard hand signals difficult to interpret Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Operational method invention — develops novel loading cycle sequencing techniques that measurably improve tonnage per shift and presents them to mine operations management for adoption Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Training tool creation — designs hands-on simulation exercises that replicate high-voltage cable hazard scenarios in a controlled environment to train new operators creatively and safely Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset9 statements
Emerging
  1. New equipment orientation — approaches unfamiliar machine configurations with curiosity and requests additional instruction rather than avoiding the equipment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback acceptance — receives supervisor corrections on machine control technique without defensiveness and applies the guidance on the next loading cycle Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill transfer pursuit — applies operating techniques learned on shuttle cars to new conveyor-loader assignments, seeking connections between machine types to accelerate competency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Post-incident learning — analyzes mechanical breakdowns experienced during the shift as learning opportunities to improve pre-shift inspection thoroughness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Regulatory change adaptation — updates personal operating practices promptly when MSHA regulations or mine-specific safety plans are revised, viewing compliance as professional growth Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Voluntary cross-training — seeks opportunities to operate multiple underground machine types beyond assigned duties to broaden occupational capability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Performance plateau challenge — responds to stagnant productivity metrics by requesting peer observation and feedback rather than attributing results to fixed equipment limitations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Continuous improvement modeling — openly shares personal learning from past equipment failures and near-misses with the crew, normalizing a culture of growth over blame Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Advanced certification pursuit — proactively pursues additional mine equipment certifications and safety credentials, viewing ongoing education as integral to professional identity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness9 statements
Emerging
  1. Attention anchoring — maintains focused awareness on machine controls and proximate crew positions throughout each loading cycle in high-noise underground conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Pre-operation pause — conducts a deliberate mental scan of electrical cable positions, roof conditions, and crew locations before engaging machine drive Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Fatigue self-monitoring — recognizes personal signs of attention degradation during extended shifts and signals to a supervisor before operating heavy equipment in a compromised state Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional regulation under noise — manages irritability or frustration triggered by equipment malfunction or production pressure without allowing it to affect machine control accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Sustained situational awareness — maintains continuous environmental monitoring for roof movement, water accumulation, and cable position changes throughout an entire production shift Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Intentional risk pacing — deliberately slows machine speed when entering newly blasted faces with uncertain ground conditions rather than defaulting to habitual high-cycle pace Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Stress response management — applies controlled breathing and deliberate attention refocusing after a near-miss event before resuming machine operation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crew mindfulness facilitation — leads brief pre-shift attention-focusing exercises that prime crew members for the heightened vigilance demanded by high-voltage and roof hazard environments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mindful hazard culture advocacy — champions intentionality and present-moment awareness as formal components of the mine's safety culture, engaging supervisors and safety officers in the effort Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude9 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical endurance maintenance — sustains machine operation performance across a full underground shift in confined, high-heat, high-noise conditions without significant productivity loss Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Initial adversity response — continues assigned loading duties calmly after minor equipment delays or roof scaling interruptions rather than disengaging Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Sustained performance under uncertainty — maintains consistent machine control quality when operating in partially assessed geological sections where roof stability is not fully confirmed Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Setback persistence — resumes efficient loading operations after equipment breakdown without carryover frustration affecting precision or safety compliance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Crisis composure — operates calmly and methodically during electrical cable emergencies or roof fall events, executing emergency protocols without panic-driven control errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Prolonged discomfort tolerance — maintains full operational discipline during extended production shifts requiring repeated high-voltage cable handling and blasted-face loading under adverse underground conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Regulatory pressure resilience — upholds personal safety standards and proper operating procedures when production demands from supervisors create pressure to cut procedural corners Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Collective resilience anchoring — stabilizes crew morale and operational focus following serious underground incidents, providing steady leadership presence during the return-to-work period Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Long-term hardship persistence — sustains high performance standards across sustained periods of difficult mining conditions including elevated water, poor ventilation, and irregular blast schedules, serving as a model of professional fortitude for the section Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Show O*NET source anchors42 anchors · skillscrosswalk.com

O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Buggy Driver · Buggy Man · Buggy Operator · Buggy Runner · Car Dropper · Car Dumper · Car Pincher · Cart Driver · Coal Hauler Operator · Coke Loader · Continuous Miner Operator · Equipment Loader Operator
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Operation and ControlOperations MonitoringTroubleshootingActive ListeningSpeakingCritical ThinkingCoordinationEquipment Maintenance
Knowledge domains
MechanicalEducation and Training
Abilities
Control PrecisionMultilimb CoordinationReaction TimeManual DexterityRate ControlProblem SensitivityNear VisionArm-Hand SteadinessTrunk StrengthPerceptual Speed
Work styles
DependabilityCautiousnessStress ToleranceAttention to DetailPerseveranceIntegrity
Technology
Industrial control softwareInventory management softwareFacilities management softwareSpreadsheet softwareElectronic mail softwarePresentation softwareOperating system softwareTime accounting software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Handle high voltage sources and hang electrical cables.
  2. Drive loaded shuttle cars to ramps and move controls to discharge loads into mine cars or onto conveyors.
  3. Pry off loose material from roofs and move it into the paths of machines, using crowbars.
  4. Move trailing electrical cables clear of obstructions, using rubber safety gloves.
  5. Control conveyors that run the entire length of shuttle cars to distribute loads as loading progresses.
  6. Observe hand signals, grade stakes, or other markings when operating machines.
  7. Examine roadway and clear obstructions from the path of travel.
  8. Drive machines into piles of material blasted from working faces.
CIP education codes
46.000046.010146.020146.030246.040146.0402

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.