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Underground Mining Machine Operators, All Other

SOC 47-5049.00Job Zone —v.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers underground mining machine operation and crew coordination roles at Job Zone 3, spanning equipment operation, site inspection, specification interpretation, and workforce supervision in subterranean extraction environments.

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. Blueprint and specification documents — read and interpret basic construction requirements under direct supervisor guidance on an underground mining site.
  2. Equipment pre-operation checklists — complete following established safety protocols before operating underground mining machinery.
  3. Work progress on assigned sections — inspect and report observations to a supervising operator during routine underground extraction tasks.
  4. Basic hand signals and radio communication procedures — apply under direct instruction to coordinate with crew members in a mining tunnel environment.
  5. Underground mining machinery controls — identify and operate with close oversight on low-complexity extraction tasks.
  6. Safety hazard indicators — recognize and communicate to a supervisor when encountered during routine underground operations.
  7. Daily activity logs and work records — maintain using office suite software under supervisor direction at an underground mine site.
  8. Critical thinking skills — apply to identify equipment anomalies and escalate issues to experienced operators during initial on-the-job training.
  9. Personal protective equipment and safety gear — select and use correctly in accordance with site-specific public safety requirements.
  10. Mechanical components of assigned underground mining machines — identify by name and function during supervised equipment orientation sessions.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Work site inspection reports — conduct and document independently to verify safety compliance and progress against specifications on routine underground operations.
  2. Construction blueprints and technical drawings — interpret with moderate complexity to plan daily extraction or support procedures with limited supervision.
  3. Crew task assignments — coordinate and distribute among small work groups based on job-specific material and labor requirements in an underground mining environment.
  4. Operations monitoring data — review and analyze during active machinery runs to detect deviations from expected performance benchmarks.
  5. Underground mining equipment — control and adjust settings during standard extraction cycles, applying operator judgment in familiar operating conditions.
  6. Spreadsheet software — use to track equipment hours, material yields, and maintenance schedules for an underground mining crew.
  7. CAD software outputs and site design drawings — reference to confirm that underground construction or extraction activities align with approved specifications.
  8. Inter-shift coordination — execute by communicating task status, safety observations, and equipment conditions clearly to incoming crews using established reporting formats.
  9. Minor mechanical troubleshooting — perform on underground mining machinery using working knowledge of mechanical systems and on-site repair procedures.
  10. Mathematical calculations for load estimation and material measurement — apply to support accurate extraction planning and resource allocation at an underground mine.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Multi-section work site inspections — lead autonomously, verifying safety standards and specification compliance across complex underground mining operations.
  2. Detailed construction and extraction specifications — analyze and translate into actionable operating procedures for full crew deployment in non-routine underground conditions.
  3. Worker scheduling and activity coordination — manage across multiple shifts, balancing material demands and personnel capabilities at an underground mining operation.
  4. Equipment performance anomalies — diagnose and resolve during active underground extraction using advanced operations monitoring and critical thinking skills.
  5. Underground mining machinery — operate and control with precision across the full range of site conditions, including non-standard geological or structural challenges.
  6. Judgment calls on work stoppages or equipment modifications — make independently when safety risks or specification deviations are identified during live mining operations.
  7. Crew performance and task completion data — compile and present using spreadsheet and presentation software to support operational review meetings.
  8. Document management systems — administer to maintain accurate and retrievable records of inspections, assignments, and equipment maintenance histories for regulatory compliance.
  9. Cross-functional coordination with engineering and safety teams — conduct using clear technical communication to resolve design or operational conflicts at an underground mine site.
  10. Mentorship of emerging operators — provide through structured on-the-job coaching on equipment controls, blueprint reading, and safety protocols in an underground mining setting.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Organizational safety and operational standards for underground mining — develop and enforce across all crews, sites, and shifts at a multi-section mining operation.
  2. Strategic workforce planning — lead by assigning and scheduling skilled operators to meet production targets and safety requirements across an entire underground mining facility.
  3. Site-wide work progress and construction specifications — oversee through systematic inspection programs, ensuring sustained compliance with engineering blueprints and regulatory mandates.
  4. Operational risk assessments — direct and institutionalize as a standing organizational process to proactively identify and mitigate hazards in underground mining environments.
  5. Technology adoption decisions — evaluate and recommend CAD software, document management platforms, and monitoring systems to improve operational accuracy and efficiency site-wide.
  6. Inter-departmental coordination with management, engineering, and regulatory bodies — lead to align underground mining operations with organizational and legal requirements.
  7. Performance metrics and key indicators for underground extraction — design and monitor using advanced spreadsheet and reporting tools to drive continuous improvement across the operation.
  8. Emerging operator and crew supervisor development programs — establish and champion, building a pipeline of competent underground mining machine operators for long-term organizational capacity.
  9. Critical operational decisions during equipment failures or geologic emergencies — make authoritatively, applying deep mechanical knowledge and public safety principles to protect personnel and assets.
  10. Mining operation policies and administrative management procedures — author and implement to standardize best practices, communication protocols, and accountability frameworks across the organization.

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 blueprint review — uses an AI tool to parse and summarize technical specifications or blueprints, cross-checking key construction requirements against the printed document before acting Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  2. Safety alert triage — receives AI-flagged equipment or site anomalies from a monitoring dashboard and escalates flagged items to a supervisor after personal visual confirmation WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Operations log interpretation — feeds shift equipment data into an AI assistant to identify patterns or anomalies, then applies critical thinking to decide whether conditions require intervention or continued observation 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..
  2. Work assignment drafting — uses an AI tool to generate initial crew assignment schedules based on job material requirements, then edits the output to reflect ground-level realities such as worker availability and site hazards Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  3. Pre-shift safety briefing preparation — directs an AI assistant to compile relevant regulatory checkpoints and site-specific risk factors into a briefing outline, reviewing and correcting the draft before delivery to the crew.
Proficient
  1. Equipment performance monitoring — integrates AI-powered sensor analytics into routine operations monitoring, interpreting trend reports to make real-time decisions about machine adjustment or shutdown Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Incident documentation acceleration — dictates incident details to an AI transcription and drafting tool, reducing report-writing time substantially while retaining personal sign-off on all safety-critical findings Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  3. Coordination scheduling optimization — directs an AI scheduling assistant through multi-crew sequencing problems underground, verifying the proposed sequence against physical site constraints and shift regulations before approving Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  4. Specification compliance checking — runs blueprint or regulatory text through an AI analysis tool to surface potential non-conformances, then applies domain expertise to judge which flags require corrective action and which are false positives 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..
Advanced
  1. Autonomous monitoring oversight — governs AI-driven continuous monitoring systems across multiple machine operators and extraction zones, setting alert thresholds, auditing AI decision logs, and intervening when automated judgments conflict with experienced site knowledge Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. AI tool evaluation and adoption governance — assesses new AI monitoring or scheduling tools for fit in underground environments, benchmarks their outputs against established safety standards, and recommends deployment or rejection to site management 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. Cross-functional AI workflow integration — orchestrates AI-assisted data flows between equipment telemetry, crew scheduling, and regulatory reporting systems, ensuring handoffs between automated outputs and human decision-makers are traceable and auditable Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  4. Critical-thinking guardrail design — defines the boundaries within which AI autonomy is permitted on-site, documenting escalation criteria so that any AI-generated operational recommendation exceeding low-stakes parameters is reviewed by a qualified operator before execution 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..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 194
Augment share: 19.4%
Time saved: 91.8%
AI autonomy: 2.89
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Critical Thinking
Score: 57.9 / 100
precision: category_estimate
WEF cluster
Technology Use, Monitoring and Control
technology_use_monitoring_control
Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.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.

1Communication8 statements
Emerging
  1. Underground equipment status report — describes basic machine conditions and operational concerns to shift supervisor using standard terminology 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. Blueprint terminology — identifies and reads key symbols and labels on mine construction blueprints during task briefings O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Crew hazard communication — relays safety observations and equipment anomalies to co-workers and supervisors clearly during active mining 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. Specification walkthrough — explains construction requirements drawn from blueprints to crew members before beginning extraction sequences O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Shift handover briefing — delivers structured verbal and written summaries of equipment status, production progress, and outstanding safety concerns to incoming crews 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 communication — documents and reports inspection findings, equipment faults, and safety deviations in required formats for mine management review O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-functional coordination communication — leads multi-crew briefings integrating engineering, safety, and operations data to align underground and surface personnel on complex extraction plans 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 communication standards — coaches junior operators on precise machine-state reporting and incident documentation to meet regulatory and operational expectations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership8 statements
Emerging
  1. Task readiness check — confirms personal equipment readiness and follows assigned duties without requiring repeated direction during underground operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer safety prompting — reminds co-workers of basic PPE and procedural requirements at the start of a shift Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Work assignment facilitation — accepts delegated authority to direct small crews on specific underground machine tasks based on job material and personnel requirements O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Production pacing — monitors crew progress against shift targets and redirects effort when output falls behind schedule 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.
Applying
  1. Crew supervision — coordinates and schedules the activities of extractive workers across a shift, ensuring safe and efficient machine operation throughout the underground environment O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability modeling — holds self and crew to established safety and production standards, addressing non-compliance immediately and documenting outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Supervisory development — mentors developing operators into crew lead roles by delegating incremental responsibility and providing structured performance feedback Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emergency leadership — assumes command during underground incidents, directing personnel evacuation and machine shutdown procedures while maintaining crew composure 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. Skill gap recognition — identifies personal limitations in operating unfamiliar underground machinery and seeks guidance before independent operation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Error reflection — reviews personal mistakes during post-shift debriefs to understand contributing factors and avoid recurrence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Procedure self-monitoring — tracks own adherence to operating sequences during machine runs and self-corrects before faults escalate 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 observation, simulation, or supervised practice based on the complexity of a new underground machine system being learned Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Cognitive load management — recognizes when simultaneous monitoring demands exceed reliable attention capacity and adjusts task sequencing or requests support 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. Performance self-assessment — evaluates own production efficiency and safety compliance at shift end against measurable targets and adjusts approach for the next shift Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Reflective practice modeling — facilitates crew after-action reviews that surface collective thinking errors and refine shared operating mental models Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Adaptive learning transfer — applies lessons from one underground machine system to anticipate failure modes and operational nuances in newly introduced equipment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking8 statements
Emerging
  1. Specification interpretation — reads blueprint symbols and construction notes to determine basic procedural requirements before initiating machine tasks O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Basic anomaly identification — recognizes when machine readings or site conditions deviate from expected norms and reports observations to a supervisor 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.
Developing
  1. Root cause analysis — investigates repeated equipment faults by tracing operational patterns rather than treating each occurrence as isolated 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. Site condition evaluation — assesses ground stability, ventilation adequacy, and spatial constraints before positioning underground machines for extraction O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Operational decision-making — weighs equipment capability, crew capacity, and geological conditions to select the safest and most efficient extraction method for each 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. Inspection-based judgment — verifies work progress and construction site conditions against specifications, identifying discrepancies that require corrective action before they become safety hazards O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Systems-level reasoning — analyzes interdependencies among machine performance, geological variables, and crew behavior to predict and prevent cascading operational failures 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. Evidence-based procedure revision — evaluates incident data and near-miss reports to recommend changes to standard operating procedures with documented rationale Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration8 statements
Emerging
  1. Role clarity acceptance — confirms assigned responsibilities within a multi-operator crew and performs tasks without overlapping or undermining adjacent roles Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Information sharing — passes relevant equipment or site observations to the next operator or crew without withholding details Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Cross-crew coordination — synchronizes machine movements and task timing with adjacent crews operating in parallel underground headings 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. Interdepartmental input — provides operational feedback to maintenance and engineering personnel during joint equipment assessments O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Coordinated extraction planning — collaborates with shift supervisors, surveyors, and equipment operators to sequence extraction activities that optimize throughput while managing shared underground resources O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict de-escalation — resolves task disputes among crew members at the workface by referencing specifications and production schedules as neutral arbiters Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Collaborative safety culture building — establishes cross-shift norms for hazard reporting and mutual accountability that persist beyond individual supervisors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Joint problem-solving leadership — convenes operators, maintenance technicians, and engineers to co-develop solutions to recurring underground machine or geological challenges 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.
6Character8 statements
Emerging
  1. Safety compliance consistency — follows all personal protective equipment and lockout-tagout procedures on every shift without exception Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Honest incident reporting — accurately documents equipment damage or operational errors without minimizing severity to avoid accountability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Ethical work assignment — distributes tasks among crew members based on genuine capability and job requirements rather than favoritism O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Regulatory integrity — adheres to mining safety regulations even when production pressure creates incentive to bypass procedures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Accountability under pressure — accepts responsibility for crew outcomes during inspections or incident investigations and presents factual accounts without deflection Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional conduct modeling — maintains respectful and constructive interactions with crew, supervisors, and inspectors regardless of operational stress or conflict Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical leadership under constraint — refuses to authorize unsafe machine operations despite external production demands and documents the decision with full rationale Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Integrity-centered culture shaping — establishes crew norms where honest reporting and rule adherence are expected and reinforced through consistent leader behavior Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Alternative access consideration — suggests a different machine approach path when the primary route presents an obstruction or safety concern Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Improvised communication — devises a hand-signal or marker system to coordinate with crew members when electronic communication fails underground Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Workflow adaptation — redesigns task sequencing when unexpected geological conditions or equipment availability changes the planned extraction approach 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 workaround — identifies a temporary operational configuration that keeps a machine productive while awaiting a non-critical part replacement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Extraction method innovation — proposes a modified cutting or boring technique based on observed rock characteristics that improves yield without compromising structural integrity 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. Training scenario design — creates realistic practice scenarios for new operators that replicate the most challenging underground conditions they will encounter Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Process improvement contribution — develops and pilots a revised operating procedure for a specific machine type that demonstrably reduces cycle time or equipment wear Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Novel hazard mitigation design — engineers a site-specific safety measure for an atypical underground condition not addressed by existing standard procedures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset8 statements
Emerging
  1. New equipment openness — approaches unfamiliar underground machines as a learning opportunity rather than a threat to current competency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback acceptance — receives correction from supervisors or experienced operators on machine technique without defensive reaction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill-building initiative — voluntarily practices on less-familiar machine types during lower-demand periods to broaden operational range Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Setback reframing — treats a machine breakdown or failed extraction attempt as diagnostic data rather than a personal failure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Continuous procedure refinement — incorporates lessons from inspections, near-misses, and peer feedback into personal operating habits between each shift 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.
  2. Cross-training pursuit — seeks certification on additional underground machine categories to increase crew flexibility and personal advancement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Learning culture promotion — establishes a shift norm where crew members regularly share operational lessons and skill gaps without stigma Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mastery through adversity — documents personal growth trajectory through progressively complex underground assignments and uses that record to guide others facing similar challenges Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness8 statements
Emerging
  1. Pre-shift attentiveness — conducts a deliberate personal readiness check before entering the underground environment, noting fatigue or distraction levels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Present-moment equipment focus — maintains attention on machine instrument panels and sensory cues during routine operation without drifting to non-task concerns 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.
Developing
  1. Stress recognition — identifies personal stress signals during high-intensity extraction periods and applies regulated breathing or task pacing to maintain operational accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Environmental awareness maintenance — sustains continuous situational awareness of ground conditions, atmospheric changes, and crew proximity throughout a 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.
Applying
  1. Intentional decision pausing — deliberately slows decision-making at critical junctures such as unexpected geological encounters rather than reacting impulsively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotion regulation under hazard — manages fear or frustration responses during equipment failures or ground movement events to execute emergency procedures accurately Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crew attentiveness cultivation — recognizes fatigue or distraction in crew members before errors occur and intervenes with task rotation or rest authorization Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mindful inspection practice — conducts site and equipment inspections with full deliberate attention, resisting production pressure that compresses inspection thoroughness 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.
10Fortitude8 statements
Emerging
  1. Discomfort tolerance — maintains task performance in confined, dark, noisy, or dusty underground conditions without seeking unnecessary work stoppages Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Initial challenge persistence — continues working through first encounters with difficult geological or mechanical obstacles rather than immediately escalating to supervisors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Extended shift endurance — sustains consistent machine operation quality and safety vigilance across full-duration shifts including overtime periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Setback recovery — resumes productive operations promptly after equipment breakdowns or extraction failures without extended demoralization Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Adverse condition performance — maintains safe and effective machine operation during roof instability events, water ingress, or ventilation disruptions while executing corrective protocols 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 pressure resilience — upholds safety standards and production quality during periods of heightened management scrutiny or regulatory audit without performance degradation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crisis steadiness — leads crew through sustained underground emergencies such as equipment entrapment or fire events with composed and decisive action over extended durations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Long-term perseverance modeling — maintains high performance and professional standards across multi-year assignments in consistently harsh underground environments and demonstrates that trajectory to developing operators 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 anchors38 anchors · skillscrosswalk.com

O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Belt Operator · Clay Mine Cutting Machine Operator · Coal Miner · Coal Trimmer Machine Operator · Copper Miner · Digging Machine Operator · Drilling Machine Operator · Dry Placer Machine Operator · Duck Bill Operator · Duck Operator · Efficiency Miner · Equipment Operator
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Critical ThinkingActive ListeningOperations MonitoringMonitoringCoordinationOperation and ControlSpeakingJudgment and Decision Making
Knowledge domains
Building and ConstructionMechanicalMathematicsCustomer and Personal ServiceAdministration and ManagementEnglish LanguagePublic Safety and SecurityDesign
Abilities
Near VisionManual DexterityArm-Hand SteadinessProblem SensitivityMultilimb CoordinationControl Precision
Work styles
DependabilityAttention to DetailCautiousnessPerseveranceStress ToleranceIntegrity
Technology
Document management softwareComputer aided design CAD softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwareElectronic mail softwarePresentation software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Inspect work progress, equipment, or construction sites to verify safety or to ensure that specifications are
  2. Read specifications, such as blueprints, to determine construction requirements or to plan procedures.
  3. Supervise, coordinate, or schedule the activities of construction or extractive workers.
  4. Assign work to employees, based on material or worker requirements of specific jobs.
CIP education codes
49.0202

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.